The Champion Chat: Recent Episodes
Alison Champion
Cr. Alison Champion, the mayor of Banyule Council shares her thoughts and conversations with community leaders and inspiring figures. Alison is committed to the idea that every person’s potential is achievable. Her intention is to be a positive role model and change-maker who empowers others to be the same.
This month Carl and I discuss the Victorian Government's recently introduced planning policies and the resultant High Density Housing. We will also be talking about the Banyule City Special Charge Scheme Policy. Some of the topics covered are:
- What are the problems associated with the State Government controlling planning and development?
- What have been some recent decisions by the State Government on this for Banyule.
- Is there a lack of transparency and will these decisions have adverse affects on the environment and infrastructure?
- What is the Special Charge Scheme and how does it work?
- How do we ensure that no-one is adversely affected financially?
If you would like to know more about the governments Housing Policy and the Special Charge Scheme Policy, you can follow the links in the copy below.
SCS - https://www.banyule.vic.gov.au/About-us/Councillors-and-Council-meetings/Council-meetings/Council-meeting-agendas-and-minutes
Policy reform - https://www.manningham.vic.gov.au/about-council/strategies-and-action-plans/advocacy/state-government-planning-reforms
Housing targets - https://www.planning.vic.gov.au/planforvictoria/housing-for-all-victorians/housing-targets
Heidelberg Structure Plan - https://engage.vic.gov.au/project/activity-centres-program/page/heidelberg
Community sports clubs are truly the centre around which many of us revolve our social activities and spare time. Whether as parents ferrying children to their weekend games, or participating in our own sports for exercise and the love of the game. And then there are the unsung heroes, the Volunteers.
This month Alison and Carl chat with Michael Malone the President of Lower Plenty Football Netball Club and Narelle Wilson from the Heidelberg Golf Club Womens Competitions. Some of the topics covered are:
- What are the roles they carry out?
- Stories of some special Volunteers, the life-blood of all community sports clubs.
- Education and support for ensuring respect for all participants and officials.
- Facilities and improvements.
- Community support, collaborations and sponsorship.
- Government and council support.
- Upcoming finals and events.
If you would like to know more about these clubs, you can check them out on their websites https://www.heidelberggc.com.au/ and https://www.lowerplentyfnc.com.au/ or on their Facebook pages https://www.facebook.com/HeidelbergGolfClub/ and https://www.facebook.com/lowerfc.
And for the ladies who are interested in taking up golf check out Heidelberg's "Let's Golf Girls" program at https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1ZafPoHLdX/?mibextid=wwXIfr
Welcome to this month's Champion Chat podcast. Last year the podcast looked at what goes into a council budget. This year, Cr Alison Champion and Cr. Rick Garotti will provide insights into the 2025 budget and how it has been constructed,
We will have a look at what services are provided by the budget such as:
- The different revenue channels
- Roads and drainage and how much they make up of the budget
- New infrastructure and capital works that have been put forward and approved under the new council
- Balancing the budget and why its important, where possible, to avoid debt
If you would like to know more, you can visit https://www.banyule.vic.gov.au/About-us/Policies-plans-strategies/Council-Plan-and-Budget, to get the latest information or simply visit https://www.banyule.vic.gov.au/Home. You can also get information from your Banyule Banner.
If you are a business needing support you can visit https://www.banyule.vic.gov.au/For-business/Getting-into-business or contact customer service on 9490 4222 and ask to be transferred to Business Concierge.
Or you can reach out and contact Alison, via:
Telephone: 0466486593
Email: Alison.Champion@banyule.vic.gov.au
or Rick, via
Telephone: 0490014965
Email: rick.garotti@banyule.vic.gov.au
Welcome to this month's Champion Chat podcast. It's now been 7 months since the council elections, and today we are going to review how the first 6 months of the new council have been going. How have the new faces settled in, and what has been the impact of fresh ideas and insights? Joining Alison in this episode is newly elected Councillor Mary O'Kane from the Olympia Ward covering the Heidelberg Heights, Heidelberg West and Bellfield areas.
Today, Mary will share how councillors are inducted, what have been the biggest challenges and the biggest surprises so far, and most importantly, what does Mary feel are some of the areas that she feels will need to be focussed on over the next term. Mary and Alison will also talk about how these focus areas can get traction and move forward, including community engagement, consultation and planning with the council officers.
We will also review how the major projects are progressing and do we see any pivot or changes to current council major policies moving forward.
And if you would like to know more about who is who on the council and how to get in touch with your local councillor, check out https://www.banyule.vic.gov.au/About-us/Councillors-and-Council-meetings/Councillors.
CommunitySpirit #BanyuleCouncil #CityofBanyule #BanyuleWatermarc #BuildingBetterCommunities #MakeADifference
🎧 New Podcast Episode Out Now! 🎧
Ever wondered exactly what’s in your council rates notice and why you’re charged for things like the Fire Services Property Levy? Or how those property valuations are calculated?
In this episode of Champion Chat, we sat down with Councillor Alison Champion to unpack the details behind your rates notice in Victoria. We cover:
✅ What’s included in your rates notice
✅ Why councils collect some state government levies
✅ How property valuations work (and why they don’t always match the real estate market!)
✅ Tips to understand and review your rates notice more clearly
It’s a must-listen for anyone who wants to get a handle on what you’re paying for—and why!
💬 Drop a comment or message us if you have questions—we’d love to hear your thoughts!
ChampionChat #BanyuleCouncil #CouncilRates #PropertyValuations #LocalGovernment #CommunityEngagement #RatesExplained #PodcastEpisode
Welcome to our ANZAC Day Champion Chat podcast. Today we will be talking about the significance of ANZAC Day, what it means in the community, support and recognition for veterans, and finally what are some of the upcoming events around ANZAC Day that people can attend, areas of discussion are;
What does ANZAC Day mean to you and your first memories?
Has the collaboration with community support helped to raise the profile of ANZAC Day? Is this a good thing?
What activities are happening in and around Banyule for ANZAC Day?
Below is a list of planned ANZAC Day events in Banyule:
This Anzac Day we have a number of activities being organised by our local Banyule RSL’s. And let’s take the time now to let our viewers know what is taking place. First off, we’ll start with what is happening at Greensborough:
Greensborough RSL
• Dawn Service 6am, Greensborough War Memorial Park, 203 Henry St, Greensborough. And you can see a picture of War Memorial Park here.
• BBQ breakfast at Greensborough RSL 6:30am, 111 Main St, Greensborough
• ANZAC Day March 8:30am assemble opposite Greensborough RSL, march to War Memorial Park.
• ANZAC Day Memorial Service 9:15am, War Memorial Park
• ANZAC Day festivities 12noon at Greensborough RSL, 111 Main St, Greensborough
Next on the list is the Heidelberg RSL, also known as RSL on Bell:
Heidelberg RSL
• Dawn Service 7am, Heidelberg War Memorial, Cnr. Burgundy St. & Studley Rd, Heidelberg. We have a picture of the War Memorial Park here which is just outside the Mercy Hospital for Women.
• After the service march down to Heidelberg FC, where refreshments will be available
• ANZAC Day Memorial Service 11am, Heidelberg RSL, 180 Bell St, Heidelberg Heights
• ANZAC Day festivities 12noon – 3pm at Heidelberg RSL, 180 Bell St, Heidelberg Heights
We then move over to the Montmorency/Eltham RSL, which I understand is your local RSL Alison. Would you like to tell us what is happening there?
Montmorency/Eltham RSL
• Dawn Service 6am Eltham Cenotaph. For those looking for the cenotaph, you can see a picture of it here at 905 Main Rd, Eltham not at the Montmorency/Eltham RSL
• ANZAC Day March 10am, Were Street, Montmorency
• ANZAC Day Family Service 10:30am, Montmorency Eltham RSL, 16 Mountain View Rd, Montmorency
And finally, we have the activities for the Watsonia RSL:
Watsonia RSL
• Dawn Service 6am, Watsonia RSL Cenotaph. The cenotaph you see here is actually located at the Watsonia RSL at 6 Morwell Avenue, Watsonia.
• Gunfire breakfast at Watsonia RSL 6:30am, $5/head
• ANZAC Day March 9:30am assemble Cnr. High St & Morwell Ave.
• ANZAC Day Memorial Service 10am, Watsonia RSL
• ANZAC Day festivities 12noon – 3pm at Watsonia RSL, 6 Morwell Avenue, Watsonia
Watsonia will also be offering a courtesy bus from 5:30am – 10pm, call 9435 4233 to arrange pickup.
ANZACDAY, #RSL, #DAWNSERVICE
Welcome to this month's Champion Chat podcast. Today we are starting a new segment on “Health and Wellness in Banyule” and our first episode is on the new Immersion Therapy Program at Banyule's WaterMarc. Joining Alison in this episode are Wes Hurrey, Adrian Dobraszkiewicz and Tim Buckley who are involved in the program as venue manager, therapist and patient.
Today we are going to find out how the program is run, how it works, and the benefits to the patients. We will also have video interspersed in the podcast showing current patients actually using the therapy, and hearing from Tim how this therapy has transformed his life. It is truly inspiring.
It's a eye-opening podcast to the positive impacts that these programs can have on your physical and mental health. If you know anyone who may benefit from this program and wish to know more, you can contact the council offices or visit https://www.watermarcbanyule.com.au/allied-health/immersion-therapy/ where you can also express an interest in registering for the program.
Open Days are Monday 31st March and Wednesday 30th April.
CommunitySpirit #GoodHealth #ImmersionTherapy #BanyuleWatermarc #BuildingBetterCommunities #MakeADifference
In this chat episode we talk about,
- What is the “Inclusive Employment Program” and what does it cover?
- Cr. Rick Garotti shares an inspiring story about how the "Inclusive Employment Program" transformed a young person's life.
- Overview of council’s vision for the program and how the model could be replicated across other LGAs.
- Successful social enterprise projects that are currently facilitated by Banyule Council.
In the second part of the podcast we are going to take a look at Budget submissions covering:
- What the current budget submissions are
- What the process for submitting a budget request is and what you need to do to give your submission the best chance
- What the timelines are to be aware of
If you would like to know more, you can contact your local councillor, contact details can be found at https://www.banyule.vic.gov.au/About-us/Councillors-and-Council-meetings/Councillors.
In this episode we are talking with Jo Brazil, a local artist who not creates her own art, but volunteers within the Banyule Arts community to help other artists within the area on initiatives such as Banyule Open Studios and the Ivanhoe Library and Cultural Hub (ILCH).
In this episode we look at how arts and culture thrive here in Banyule, and what makes Banyule a creative hub for residents and visitors alike.
We also discuss;
⏺️ Initiatives, such as support for local artists, art trails, and community engagement projects.
⏺️ Platforms like Creative Banyule and the Banyule Arts and Culture programs.
⏺️ How community groups and local businesses contribute to this vibrant arts culture.
⏺️ The current challenges for artists.
⏺️ What is on in the calendar of events, i.e. exhibitions, festivals, or workshops.
⏺️ How people can get involved.
If you are interested finding out more information about Jo Brazil and her art and amazing scarves you can check her out or get in contact via
instagram@jobrazildesign or email jobrazildesign@optusnet.com.au. Jo's new scarf business website is under construction and will be released soon under the name ‘Jojo’s Artscarf’, and I have a post on my official Facebook with images of Jo's latest designs.
If you would like to know more of what is happening in the Banyule Arts scene, you can visit the following links:
https://www.banyule.vic.gov.au/Events-activities/Major-events/Chillin-in-Banyule
https://www.banyule.vic.gov.au/Exhibitions
https://www.banyule.vic.gov.au/WhatsOn
https://www.pinpointartists.com.au
https://www.banyule.vic.gov.au/PublicArt
https://www.banyule.vic.gov.au/Arts
https://www.banyule.vic.gov.au/ILCH
Facebook.com/BanyuleArts
Or you can email arts@banyule.vic.gov.au.
It's our last podcast of this year! 🎉 And what a year it has been. For many of us it is time to take some time off, relax and spend some quality time with those we love. In this Champion Chat holiday edition, we discuss;
Alison’s highlights of this year
What's on in Banyule, including council initiatives to help spread joy in this festive season, such as;
⭐ Music & art events
⭐ Community events, festivals and celebrations
⭐ Youth & senior events
⭐ XMAS Carols 14th December from 5pm to 9:30pm at Greensborough War Memorial Park
⭐ XMAS Day Lunch at Bellfield Community Hub
To book a spot for the XMAS Day Lunch, please contact Shop 48 on 8582 9501 or book in person at The Harmony Centre, 48 The Mall, Heidelberg West 3081
And for all those who contributed to the Champion Chat whether by watching, commenting and sharing Champion Chat episodes, we thank you for all your support. Your opinion matters to us, so feel free to let us know what you think of the topics we discuss and what would you like to see more of next year. We would especially like to thank those community members and councillors who so generously gave of their time to participate throughout the year on the podcast.
The Champion Chat team would like to wish you all a Merry Christmas and a safe holiday! 🎄🎅
If you like to know more information about what's on in Banyule, including council festive season events, please visit Alison's website, https://alisonchampion.com.au/, or visit the following links:
Banyule City Website: https://www.banyule.vic.gov.au/Events-activities/Whats-on
Are you passionate about creating thriving communities and fostering a strong sense of belonging? Would it surprise you to know that it doesn't always need the big idea or gesture? Sometimes it's the little things that make a huge difference, and that starts with you. Welcome to this month's Champion Chat podcast on "Building Better Communities." 🏡🤝
Joining Alison in this episode are Glen Crawford and Fred Harrington, areas of discussion are:
What is diversity?
What makes good communities?
How do you get poeple to commit or put "skin in the game"?
How can you become involved or find support from City of Banyule?
In this episode, we dive into:
✨ How have our guests mobilised volunteers to create lasting impact.
✨ Inspiring stories of neighbours coming together to uplift each other and their community.
✨ Expert tips on improving community spirit and making your neighbourhood a better place for everyone.
Whether you're a community leader, a volunteer, or just someone who cares about making a difference, this podcast is for YOU! 🎧
💡 Listen now and be the change your community needs! 💡
CommunitySpirit #Volunteering #GoodNeighbours #Podcast #BuildingBetterCommunities #MakeADifference
Welcome to this month's Champion Chat podcast. Residents sometimes wonder what goes into a council budget and there is the simplistic view that councils should just focus on rates, roads and rubbish.. But do you know what services are actually provided by your Banyule Council? The list is long and many residents would struggle without services such as:
- Waste Management
- Roads and drainage
- Parks, gardens and sporting ground maintenance and upgrades
- Community service provision for aged care, youth, and special needs.
- Arts and Culture.
- Economic planning and business support
- Customer service, Community group support, and
- Major projects.
If you would like to know more, you can visit https://www.banyule.vic.gov.au/About-us/Policies-plans-strategies/Council-Plan-and-Budget, to get the latest information or simply visit https://www.banyule.vic.gov.au/Home
If you are a business needing support you can visit https://www.banyule.vic.gov.au/For-business/Getting-into-business or contact customer service on 9490 4222 and ask to be transferred to Business Concierge.
Or you can reach out and contact Alison, via:
Telephone: 0466486593
Email: Alison.Champion@banyule.vic.gov.au
Welcome to this month's Champion Chat podcast. Today we continue our look at diversity within Banyule City. Joining Alison in this episode are Phillip Howe and Nos Hosseini, areas of discussion are:
What is diversity?
As Australia works hard to be a multi-cultural society, do we have a vision of what a uniquely Australian culture will be that encompasses us all?
How do we overcome bias, both perceived and real?
Multi-culturalism and multi-tribalism, a really big-picture question.
How can you become involved or find support from City of Banyule?
If you like to know more about Diversity, please visit the links below.
Banyule Council webpages:
https://www.banyule.vic.gov.au/Community-services/Cultural-and-identity-diversity
Victorian Multicultural Commission:
https://www.multiculturalcommission.vic.gov.au/
Iranian Women's Association:https://www.facebook.com/iranianwomensassociation/
https://www.instagram.com/nos.hosseini/
**NAIDOC WEEK - 7 July - 14 July ‘Keep Fire Burning’
Social Group/Event Tags:**
Banyule Open Studios:
https://banyuleopenstudios.com.au
Banyule Open Studios Weekend - Sat 12 & Sun 13 October 2024
Barrbunin Beek
Address - Fred Howe Annex, Catalina Street, Heidelberg West, Victoria
https://bchs.org.au/services/first-nations-health/barrbunin-beek/
LGBTIQA+ #DIVERSITY #IDAHOBIT #NATIONALSORRYDAY
Welcome to this month's Champion Chat podcast. Today we continue our series on Social Change and Local Government Support by by having a deeper look at diversity within Banyule City. Joining Alison in this episode are Michelle McNamara and Cr. Rick Garotti, areas of discussion are:
What is diversity?
As Australia works hard to be a multi-cultural society, do we have a vision of what a uniquely Australian culture will be that encompasses us all?
How do we overcome bias, both perceived and real?
Multi-culturalism and multi-tribalism, a really big-picture question.
How can you become involved or find support from City of Banyule?
If you like to know more about Diversity, please visit the links below.
Banyule Council webpages:
https://www.banyule.vic.gov.au/Community-services/Cultural-and-identity-diversity
Victorian Multicultural Commission:
https://www.multiculturalcommission.vic.gov.au/
IDAHOBIT Day is acknowledged on 17th May every year
National Reconciliation Week is held from 27th May to 3rd June each year
LGBTIQA+ #DIVERSITY #IDAHOBIT #NATIONALSORRYDAY
Welcome to this month's Champion Chat podcast. This month we are doing an overview/update of the Banyule City major projects to understand how they came about, the aim or benefits each project hopes to achieve, and where are we on the journey so far. Alison will provide insights into these projects and changes that they will mean for Banyule in the future.
We'll have a look at:
- The North East Link State project, and what and why are Council advocating for additional works.
- The Bellfield Community Hub and Residential Development.
- The Cartmell Street carpark development.
- The Rosanna Library development
We'll also get an insight into how strategic thinking and an ability to pivot enables Banyule City to maximise the investments and development opportunities.
Below is a list of planned ANZAC Day events in Banyule:
Sunday 21st - 10.30-11.05am Watsonia RSL service @ Cherry Street Memorial, Macleod
Wednesday 24th:
• 10.15am Macleod College service and morning tea @ NETS Stadium, 2 Somers St, Macleod
• 10.30am Heidelberg Repatriation Hospital service @ Remembrance Garden, 300 Waterdale Rd, Heidelberg
Thursday 25th:
• 6am Watsonia RSL dawn service @ Morwell Avenue Memorial, Watsonia
• 6am Greensborough RSL dawn service @ Greensborough War Memorial, 203 Henry St, Greensborough
• 6am Montmorency-Eltham RSL dawn service @ Eltham Cenotaph, 903 Main Rd, Eltham
• 7am RSL on Bell service and refreshments @ Heidelberg Football Club, corner Burgundy and Studley rds
• 8.30am Greensborough Anzac Day march from Greensborough RSL to Greensborough War Memorial
• 10.20am Watsonia RSL traditional service @ Morwell Avenue Memorial, Watsonia
• 10.30am Montmorency-Eltham family service @ Petrie Park, Mountain View Rd, Montmorency (March commences at 10am in Were St)
• 11am Heidelberg RSL service and refreshments @ Heidelberg West RSL, 180 Bell St, Heidelberg
ANZACDAY, #RSL, #DAWNSERVICE
Welcome to this month's Champion Chat. In this episode we are going to revisit local Traders Associations. Many people in the community would rather support their local businesses due to their drive to give back, supporting the local community groups, things that really mean something to people nowadays and are a real driving force behind people's purchasing decisions.
Joining Alison and Carl on today's chat is Maryanne Coffey from the Eaglemont Village Traders Association.
Topics that we will be covering today include;
⭐ The importance of local businesses and how Traders Associations help them
⭐ Some of the challenges that businesses have had to overcome
⭐ Some of the major events and projects planned for the Eaglemont Villlage precinct
We'll also be talking about how local businesses work hand in glove with other local government, sporting clubs and local schools to create positive outcomes.
If you like to know more about what's happening in the Eaglemont Village Shopping Precinct, including events such as the Easter Egg Hunt on Friday March 22nd, you can visit their website, https://eaglemontvillage.com.au/, or their Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/EaglemontVillage/.
P.S. The Eaglemont Cellars have now re-opened, a very popular local watering hole with great live music, where every hour is happy and the Beer Garden is a great place to wind down.
Welcome to this month's Champion Chat podcast. The hot topic lately has been about Local Government and are some of them getting too involved in issues which could be seen as having nothing to do with local city management. Today Alison will provide insights into what actually goes on behind the scenes at Banyule City Council, from the meetings and decision making, to the execution and provision of services.
Other areas covered include:
- What is the Banyule City guidelines around inclusivity?
- Banyule operations as a single councillor per ward LGA.
- How does the council continually balance the budget with delivery of required services?
- How does a council meeting run.
- How can residents have their say or raise an agenda topic for council meetings.
If you would like to know more, you can visit https://www.banyule.vic.gov.au/About-us/Councillors-and-Council-meetings/Council-meetings/Council-meeting-agendas-and-minutes to get the latest information on council meetings or https://www.banyule.vic.gov.au/About-us/Councillors-and-Council-meetings/Council-meetings/How-Council-meetings-work on how council meetings work.
Or you can reach out and contact Alison, via:
Telephone: 0466486593
Email: Alison.Champion@banyule.vic.gov.au
Welcome to our first podcast of this year! And we are going to kick off this year with one of the most important things to us in our daily lives, local businesses and local Traders Associations. Many people in the community would rather support their local businesses due to their drive to give back, supporting the local community groups, things that really mean something to people nowadays and are a real driving force behind people's purchasing decisions.
Joining Alison and Carl on today's chat is Hesham Mobarek from the Watsonia Traders Association.
Topics that we will be covering today include;
⭐ The importance of local businesses and how Traders Associations help them
⭐ What have been some of the challenges that businesses have had to overcome
⭐ What are some of the major events and projects planned for the Watsonia Shopping Precinct
We'll also be talking about how local businesses work hand in glove with other local government, sporting clubs and local schools to create positive outcomes.
If you like to know more about what's happening in the Watsonia Shopping Precinct, including events, you can visit their website, https://www.watsoniashops.com.au/, or their Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/watsoniashops/.
P.S. Not long now until Montmorency's QWere St Festival on Saturday 3rd February.
This is a very popular event promoting our LGBTIQA+ community and everyone is welcome.
Welcome to our last podcast of this year! 🎉 No doubt this year has been very challenging for most of us. I think it is time to take some time off, relax and spend some quality time with those we love. In this special holiday edition, we discuss;
Alison’s highlights of this year
What's on in Banyule, including council initiatives to help spread joy in this festive season, such as;
⭐ Music & art events
⭐ Community events, festivals and celebrations
⭐ Youth & senior events
Thank you very much for everyone who watched, liked, commented and shared Champion chat episodes. Your opinion matters to us and one of the main missions of this podcast is to create a safe environment where everyone’s voice is heard. So feel free to let us know what you think of the topics we discuss and what would you like to see more of next year. We would especially like to thank those community members and councillors who so generously gave of their time to participate throughout the year on the podcast.
The Champion Chat team would like to wish you all a Merry Christmas and a safe holiday! 🎄🎅
If you like to know more information about what's on in Banyule, including council festive season events, please visit Alison's website, https://alisonchampion.com.au/, and you can download or open the PDF blog document with links for all events.
Welcome to this month's Champion Chat podcast. This month we are looking at the Banyule City 2041 Vision to understand the thinking behind the Vision, and where are we on the journey so far. Joining Alison for this month's podcast is Cr. Tom Melican as they both provide insights into some of the changes that they have seen happen in Banyule over the last 10 years and what are some of the major challenges and areas of focus that will need to be addressed as we move onward to 2041.
We'll have a look at:
- Housing, with projected growth of 1,000 extra residents a year, where will they be housed.
- Connected communities, with inclusion and safety for all.
- Services provision and the different needs that have to be provided.
- The economy, how LGA can help to grow small to medium businesses and the work with local traders associations.
It is important to note that Banyule's Community Vision 2041 was created by Banyule residents in collaboration with councillors and officers over several, various consultation sessions. Having participated in the final in-person session, it was such a privilege to hear so many passionate, invested people coming together expressing how they want their home to look and function for their lives.
"We in Banyule are a thriving, sustainable, inclusive and connected community. We are engaged, we belong, and we value and protect our environment"
For more information, check out the 2041 Vision at the Banyule Council website: https://www.banyule.vic.gov.au/About-us/Policies-plans-strategies/Council-plans-and-strategies/Banyule-Community-Vision-2041.
Welcome to this month's Champion Chat podcast. This month we are taking it to the streets as we take a walk down Were Street, Montmorency to see how the precinct now looks after the redvelopment.
We'll have a look at:
- The upgraded public reserve.
- How safety has been improved for pedestrians.
- What have been some of the impacts
- How some local traders have experienced the changes
For more information about Were Street, check out the Banyule Council website: https://shaping.banyule.vic.gov.au/werestreet, or better yet if you live in the local area, come and see for yourself and hang out, grab a coffee, meal or wine from any of the cafes and eateries, or just spend a couple of hours browsing through the eclectic group of retail shops for that bargain or truly niche purchase.
Welcome to the Champion Chat podcast. Today we continue our series on Community Groups and Local Government Support by talking about the Banyule City Scouts Organisation. The Scouts are an organisation that have been operating for well over a century. This month Alison and Carl along with Cr. Mark Di Pasquale talk with the some of the leaders of the Scouts organisation within Banyule and Victoria to discuss the organisation, its evolution and the interaction with the community.
Some of the topics that we cover are:
- What have been some of the biggest changes to the organisation over the last 40-50 years?
- How are Scouts involved in supporting the community?
- What are the the costs and time requirements in being a scout?
- Volunteers and leaders, the life-blood of all community sports clubs.
- What funding assistance have Scouts received and how has this been able to improve the organisation in Banyule?
- Jamborees and other activities.
- How Scouts are a Registered Training Organisation that can assist with education and future employment.
If you would like to know more about Scouts, you can find out more at https://scouts.com.au/, and you can find your nearest Scout Group on https://scouts.com.au/join/nearest-group/. Local Scout Groups include:
- Bundoora website is https://bundoorascouts.org/
- Greensborough Scouts have no website and are located at Willinda Park, Beatrix St, Greensborough VIC 3088
- GreenHills website is https://1stgreenhills.org.au/
- Heidelberg Scouts have no website and are located at 31 Outhwaite Rd, Heidelberg Heights VIC 3081
- Lower Plenty Scouts have no website and are located at Cnr Maskell Crescent and, Para Rd, Lower Plenty VIC 3093
- Macleod Scouts have no website and are located at 30 McNamara St, Macleod VIC 3085
- Montmorency Scouts is https://www.montyscouts.com.au/
- Rosanna Scouts is http://www.rosannacubs.org/
- Viewbank Scouts is https://www.facebook.com/viewbankscouts/
- Watsonia Scouts have no website and are located at A K Line Reserve, 10 Peters St, Watsonia VIC 3087
Welcome to this month's Champion Chat podcast. The hot topic lately has been about budgets, service cuts and inflation, and with the approval and release of the Banyule City 2023 budget, Alison, Cr. Peter Costaldo and Cr. Rick Garotti will provide insights into how this budget has been constructed,
Other areas covered include:
- How has revenue been impacted with the changing economy over the last 12 months?
- What impact has there been on day to day services?
- The highlights in the capital expenditure budget.
- What projects have been affected or deferred due to the tight labour market.
If you would like to know more, you can visit https://www.banyule.vic.gov.au/About-us/Policies-plans-strategies/Council-Plan-and-Budget to get the latest information.
You can also see the budget discussed in the council meeting on Monday 26th June at this link, https://www.banyule.vic.gov.au/About-us/Councillors-and-Council-meetings/Council-meetings/Council-meeting-agendas-and-minutes?dlv_OC%20CL%20Public%20Meetings=(pageindex=1), where you can also find the agenda and minutes of the meeting.
Or you can reach out and contact Alison, via:
Telephone: 0466486593
Email: Alison.Champion@banyule.vic.gov.au
Welcome to this month's Champion Chat podcast. In this chat episode, we review the FOGO initiative 12 months on from its implementation. We look at:
- What impact has FOGO had on residents?
- Has FOGO achieved the benefits the council had planned for?
- What are ways that FOGO could be improved?
- How will FOGO be expanded to businesses and buildings with multiple dwellings.
Joining Alison are Cr. Tom Melican and residents Darren and Vicky.
For more information about FOGO and other related information please visit banyule council website: https://www.banyule.vic.gov.au/
Welcome to this month's Champion Chat podcast. The hot topic lately has been about budgets, and its not surprise that even at Local Government level, a budget is a complex item that takes time to bring together with one eye on today and the other on the future. Today Alison will provide insights into what actually goes into a LGA budget,
Other areas covered include:
- How is revenue generated, in other words where does the money come from.
- What operational items need to be covered, or non-discretionary budget items.
- Which roads does LGA have responsibility for, and which do State and Federal governments manage.
- What are some examples of discretionary projects.
- How as residents you can have your say or even work with council officers on submitting a proposal.
If you would like to know more, you can visit https://www.banyule.vic.gov.au/About-us/Policies-plans-strategies/Council-Plan-and-Budget to get the latest information.
You can also see the budget discussed in the council meeting on Monday 29th May at this link, https://www.banyule.vic.gov.au/.../29-May-Ordinary.... or read the agenda and minutes of the meeting here https://www.banyule.vic.gov.au/.../29-May-Ordinary....
Or you can reach out and contact Alison, via:
Telephone: 0466486593
Email: Alison.Champion@banyule.vic.gov.au
Welcome to this month's Champion Chat podcast. Today we continue our series on Social Change and Local Government Support by having a deeper look at the LGBTIQA+ Community within the Banyule City. Joining Alison in this episode are Fleassy Malay and Emerson Zandegu, areas of discussion are;
What does LGBTIQA+ stand for and what is the difference between sexual orientation and gender identity?
What is daily life like for someone from the LGBTIQA+?
What barriers still exist for the LGBTIQA+ community?
How do I address people from the LGBTIQA+ community without offending them?
What upcoming events will be happening in the area?
If you like to know more about LGBTIQA+, please visit the links below.
Banyule Council webpages:
Find the Rainbow in Melbourne’s North - https://www.banyule.vic.gov.au/Community-services/Cultural-and-identity-diversity/LGBTIQA-communities/Rainbow-in-Melbourne
LGBTIQA+ communities - https://www.banyule.vic.gov.au/Community-services/Cultural-and-identity-diversity/LGBTIQA-communities
LGBTIQA+ Population Committee - https://www.banyule.vic.gov.au/About-us/Community-advisory-committees/LGBTIQA-Population-Committee
Minus18 is an organisation established to support and equip young LGBTQA+ people and their friends and family.
Their website is - https://www.minus18.org.au/articles
Welcome to our ANZAC Day Champion Chat podcast. Today we will be talking about the significance of ANZAC Day, what it means in the community, support and recognition for veterans, and finally what are some of the upcoming events around ANZAC Day that people can attend. Joining Alison in this episode are former serving members Uncle Charles Pakana, who is the Editor at Victorian Aboriginal News, and Glen Ferrarotto, the President of the Montmorency RSL, areas of discussion are;
What does ANZAC Day mean to you and your first memories?
How has public and government support evolved for our serving members and those who have previously served?
Has the collaboration with community support helped to raise the profile of ANZAC Day? Is this a good thing?
What activities are happening in and around Banyule for ANZAC Day?
Below is a list of planned ANZAC Day events in Banyule:
Thursday 20th - Northern Health 10am Bundoora Centre, 1231 Plenty Rd, Bundoora
Friday 21st - Heidelberg Repatriation Hospital 10.30am Remembrance Garden, 300 Waterdale Rd
Sunday 23rd - Watsonia RSL 10.40-11.05am Cherry St Memorial, Macleod
Tuesday 25th:
• Monty/Eltham RSL Tuesday 25th 6am Eltham Cenotaph, Main Road Eltham
• Monty/Eltham RSLTuesday 25th 10am Were St, Montmorency march, 10.30am Family Service in Petrie Park
• Greensborough War Memorial Park 6am Henry St, Greensborough
• Greensborough RSL 8.45am 111 Main Street, GB march, 9.10am Family Service in GB War Memorial Park
• Watsonia RSL 6am 6 Morwell Ave Watsonia
• Watsonia RSL 10.10am Black St/Watsonia Rd, Watsonia march, Family Service at Watsonia RSL
• Heidelberg 7am Austin Hospital Cenotaph, Studley Road/Burgundy St march to Heidelberg FC
• Heidelberg West 11am Family Service at 180 Bell St, Heidelberg West
ANZACDAY, #RSL, #DAWNSERVICE
Welcome to our second Champion Chat podcast of this year. Today we continue our series on Social Change and Local Government Support by talking about the Rosanna Library Redevelopment. The redevelopment of the Ivanhoe Library and Cultural Hub has been a huge success, and in conjunction with the other improvements on the main shopping strip, have seen Ivanhoe once more become a vibrant retail and entertainment area. Now, Banyule Council turn their attention to the Rosanna Library Redevelopment. Joining Alison in this episode are CEO of Yarra Plenty Regional Libraries, Jane Cowell and Cr. Tom Melican from Ibbott Ward, areas of discussion are;
What is the Yarra Plenty Regional Libraries group and what does it do?
What has been the history behind the Rosanna Library Redevelopment project and the involvement of Woolworths?
How will services be maintained during the redevelopment?
What other improvements will be happening in the area?
If you like to know more about Rosanna Library Redevelopment, please visit the links below.
Banyule Council webpage for Redevelopment Project - https://shaping.banyule.vic.gov.au/rosannalibrary
Yarra Plenty Regional Libraries - https://www.yprl.vic.gov.au/
Welcome to our first podcast of this year. Today we continue our series on Social Change and Local Government Support by talking about Urban Food Strategies. Rising inflation and costs of living in Australia are having a big impact to Australians hip pockets, Urban Food Strategies and how families that are doing it tough can get help is something I think we would all like to know a bit more about. In this episode, we discuss;
What actually is an Urban Food Strategy?
What is happening with the Banyule Council's Urban Food Strategy?
What help for families currently exist in the City of Banyule?
What can residents do to help or get involved?
If you like to know more about Urban Food Strategies, please visit the links below. Alternatively if you know of other initiatives that may be able to help families struggling to put food on the table, please share back to this post so that we can ensure that the people needing assistance know where they can find it. Organisations that can already help are:
BANSIC for food relief - https://bansic.org.au/covid-19-emergency-food-relief/
Greenhills Neighbourhood House for food relief - https://www.ghnh.org.au/sustainability
Watsonia Neighbourhood House for food relief - https://www.watsonianh.org.au/community-support
Banyule Council Urban Food Strategy - https://shaping.banyule.vic.gov.au/UrbanFood
Other organisations to check out are:
Sustain - www.sustain.org.au
Terra Madre Organics - www.terramadre.com.au
Welcome to our last podcast of this year. No doubt this year has been very challenging for most of us. I think it is time to take some time off, relax and spend some quality time with our families. In this special holiday edition, we discuss;
Alison’s highlights of this year
Banyule council initiatives to help spread joy in this festive season, such as;
Music & art events
Community events, festivals and celebrations
Youth & senior events
Thank you very much for everyone who watched, liked, commented and shared Champion chat episodes. Your opinion matters to us and one of the main missions of this podcast is to create a safe environment where everyone’s voice is heard. So feel free to let us know what you think of the topics we discuss and what would you like to see more of, next year.
The Champion Chat team would like to wish you all a Merry Christmas and a safe holiday!
If you like to know more information about the Banyule council festive season events, please visit the links below.
https://www.banyule.vic.gov.au/News-items/Update-on-Boulevard-Christmas-lights
https://www.banyule.vic.gov.au/Events-activities/Whats-on/Council-events/Christmas-Day-lunch
https://www.banyule.vic.gov.au/Events-activities/Whats-on/Council-events/Finders-keepers-art-scavenger-hunt
https://www.banyule.vic.gov.au/Events-activities/Whats-on/Exhibition-history/Banyule-100-stories-and-art-from-young-residents
https://www.banyule.vic.gov.au/Events-activities/Whats-on/Council-events/LEGO-Christmas-display
https://www.banyule.vic.gov.au/Events-activities/Whats-on/Community-events/Backyard-bird-count
https://www.banyule.vic.gov.au/Events-activities/Whats-on/Council-events/Mini-Bikers
https://www.banyule.vic.gov.au/Events-activities/Whats-on/Council-events/Child-sleep-and-settling-session
https://www.banyule.vic.gov.au/Events-activities/Whats-on/Council-events/Animals-galore
https://www.banyule.vic.gov.au/Events-activities/Whats-on/Council-events/Bugs-galore
https://www.banyule.vic.gov.au/Events-activities/Whats-on/Council-events/Afternoon-cinema-under-the-sky-at-Macleod-Village
https://www.banyule.vic.gov.au/Events-activities/Whats-on/Council-events/Evening-cinema-under-the-sky-at-Macleod-Village
https://www.banyule.vic.gov.au/Events-activities/Whats-on/Council-events/Afternoon-cinema-under-the-sky-at-Anthony-Beale-Reserve
https://www.banyule.vic.gov.au/Events-activities/Whats-on/Council-events/Evening-cinema-under-the-sky-at-Anthony-Beale-Reserve
https://banyulecitycouncil.cmail19.com/t/d-e-ztrktil-tkkihrikhi-h/
Since coming out of COVID, community sports clubs have encountered a number of challenges. This month Alison and Carl chat with the president of Viewbank Tennis Club as Part 2 of our discussions on Community Sports Clubs. Some of the topics covered are:
- What are the biggest challenges facing community sports?
- How did COVID and lockdown impact sports and are there still impacts?
- Volunteers, the life-blood of all community sports clubs.
- Education and support for ensuring respect for all participants and officials.
- Pathways for participants to progress to higher levels.
- Community support and sponsorship
- Government and council support.
- Medical safety and insurance.
If you would like to know more about the Viewbank Tennis club, you can check them out more on https://play.tennis.com.au/viewbanktennisclub
Since coming out of COVID, community sports clubs have encountered a number of challenges. This month Alison and Carl with the presidents of Montmorency Junior Football Club and Research Lower Plenty Baseball Club as Part 1 of our discussions on Community Sports Clubs. Some of the topics covered are:
- What are the biggest challenges facing community sports?
- How did COVID and lockdown impact sports and are there still impacts?
- Volunteers, the life-blood of all community sports clubs.
- Education and support for ensuring respect for all participants and officials.
- Pathways for participants to progress to higher levels.
- Community support and sponsorship
- Government and council support.
- Medical safety and insurance.
If you would like to know more about these clubs, you can check them out more on https://mjfnc.org.au/ and https://researchbaseball.com.au/
In celebration of YouthFest2022 Alison and Carl talk about Youth Services, Why Youth matter and various other topics.
- History of Banyule's Youth Summit
- How COVID and lockdown impacted youth services
- Why does youth matter and how can we encourage youth to flourish?
- Thoughts on gender diversity, ethnic diversity, freedom of expression, climate change and mental health
- How is Council measure success
- What is YouthFest, activities and how to participate
- Alison reflects on her younger self.
- Where can young people get help?
In this chat episode, we discuss:
- Banyule Council’s Social enterprise initiatives.
- How much restrictions have impacted the 2020-2025 Social Enterprise Strategy
- The Social Enterprise Programme and what to expect in the coming years
- Specific Social Enterprise Grants and other assistance programmes
In this chat episode, we discuss about,
- How do you feel FOGO impacts you as a resident?
- Will FOGO work and can it really deliver benefits?
- Were residents properly engaged, and what concerns do they have?
For more information about FOGO and other related information please visit Banyule council website: https://www.banyule.vic.gov.au/
Back to earth initiative: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zFTkT4cYKQw
In this chat episode, we talk about,
- What is FOGO?
- Why Banyule council heavily investing on FOGO
- How landfill levy works
- Turning food waste into high-grade composts and mulches
- FOGO guides from council to help residents
Back to earth initiative: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zFTkT4cYKQw
For more information about FOGO and other related information please visit Banyule council website: https://www.banyule.vic.gov.au
In this chat episode we talk about:
- Balance of power and policy compromises
- Short-term election promises vs long-term vision
- Voter mentality, lack of interest and thoughts about the current Australian electoral process
- Thoughts on Liberal and Labor policies
- What can we learn from great political figures like, Sir Winston Churchill, JFK and Lee Kuan Yew
- Government Australia needs vs government Australia deserves
Please note that the opinions presented by each speaker are personal and not affiliated with any political party in particular. You are encouraged to vote for whichever party you feel aligned with. And you are responsible for your vote.
In this episode, we discuss about a special community-led project "The Monty" Hub"
Topics covered:
- Origin story of Monty Hub
- The significance of community initiatives
- Monty Hub Today
- Future plans for grand vision
If you like to get involved please visit Monty Hub website: montyhub.org
In this chat episode, we talk about,
- Significance of International Women’s Day
- Zoe, Melissa and Alison’s personal journey of becoming business owners
- Inspiring figures who helped Zoe, Melissa and Alison to cultivate a strong mindset
- Navigating gender-specific challenges, stereotypes and barriers
- Biggest professional achievement
- Advice for female entrepreneurs
- Banyule council’s support services for female business owners
In this chat episode, we talk about,
- What is the “Inclusive Jobs Program” and what does it cover
- Cr. Rick Garotti shares an inspiring story about how the Inclusive jobs program transformed a young man’s life
- Overview of council’s social enterprise plan
- Successful social enterprise projects that are currently facilitated by Banyule Council
- How Banyule is building the process and methodology for other councils to implement their own Inclusive Jobs Program and Social enterprise plan
- How businesses and social entrepreneurs can be a part of the program
Welcome to our last podcast of this year. No doubt this year has been very challenging for most of us. I think it is time to take some time off, relax and spend some quality time with our families. In this special holiday edition, we discuss;
Alison’s highlights of this year
Banyule council initiatives to help spread joy in this festive season, such as;
✅ Music & art events
✅ Community events, festivals and celebrations
✅ Youth & senior events
Thank you very much for everyone who watched, liked, commented and shared Champion chat episodes. Your opinion matters to us and one of the main missions of this podcast is to create a safe environment where everyone’s voice is heard. So feel free to let us know what you think of the topics we discuss and what would you like to see more of, next year.
The champion chat team would like to wish you all a Merry Christmas and a safe holiday!
If you like to know more information about the Banyule council festive season events, please visit the link below.
https://www.banyule.vic.gov.au/Events-activities/Whats-on
In this chat episode, we talk about,
✅ Waste and recycling process in Banyule council
✅ Current biggest failing we have with waste and recycling
✅ Views on VIC government’s 10-year policy, “Recycling Victoria”
✅ The role of private investment in waste and recycling
✅ Cost on residents, rates and future of Banyule waste recovery centre
✅ Impacts of population growth and future plans
In this chat episode, we talk about,
✔️ What’s Baynule council is doing at the micro level to work towards sustainability and carbon neutrality.
✔️ How the local council is partnering with industries and local businesses to attain climate goals.
✔️ Construction industry and eco-friendly housing.
✔️ Cr. Peter Castaldo's 7 years experience owning an electric car and solar-powered house.
✔️ Victoria Bushland management and initiatives Council is taking to protect Baynule ecosystem.
✔️ Biggest challenges we are facing going towards an environmentally sustained community.
In this episode Alison Champion talks about,
🔴 Alison’s thoughts on the current status in Melbourne.
🔴 Thoughts on political leadership.
🔴 Erosion of media’s responsibility as truth speakers.
🔴 Democracy and safety of the Banyule community.
🔴 Misalignment of state government and local government.
In this episode we are talking to Maureen Jones, the author of the book “Montmorency: The Farm on the Plenty”.
This book lays out the history of Montmorency from its earliest years as a hunting ground the Wurundjeri willam people, through its uptake by white settlers. Ownership of the land remained in the hands of one family for four generations spanning seventy years, before the land evolved through small farmlets into a suburb once part of the former Shire of Eltham, now part of Banyule City Council.
We also discuss;
⏺️ How Maureen got into writing.
⏺️ What inspired Maureen to write “Montmorency: The Farm on the Plenty”.
⏺️ How did the community react?
⏺️ Challenges Maureen faced during the process.
⏺️ People who supported and reflections
If you are interested finding out more information about the book please reach Maureen on amjones7@bigpond.com
In this episode, Alison Champion talks about,
- Alison's memories of the Sydney Olympics in the year 2000.
- What goes into the management and responsibilities that Council has to provide community sports and recreation?
- How does the Council plan the future development of sports and recreation?
- What support has the Council been able to provide to sporting organisations during the lockdown?
- Recent facility upgrades and safety issues.
In this episode Alison Champion talks about,
- First 180 days of office and how lockdowns impacted the council’s delivery.
- How Banyule council is assisting local businesses and residents.
- How the council is supporting local artists.
- Exciting festivals and events coming up.
- Alison’s personal thoughts on pandemic, resilience and rebuilding the community.
Alison Champion speaks about town planning, exciting Banyule council projects, How the council is planning for the future and how we should think about heritage and many more topics.
Tom Melican talks about alternative transport options and a different worklife post-COVID
Outcomes of the decision to not pursue the Supreme Court Challenge against the State Government
Macleod resident and business owner, Mark Di Pasquale chatting with Montmorency resident and business operator, Alison Champion about economic relief packages and grants offered by Banyule City Council for 2020/2021
More information here: https://www.banyule.vic.gov.au/About-us/Rates/Paying-your-rates/Coronavirus-pandemic-rates-hardship-application