I am pleased that the warmer months are approaching, giving us more opportunity to get out and about. Although restrictions continue, we are able to explore our local neighbourhoods.
In order for life to get back to normal, we can all do our part by getting vaccinated. I have had my vaccinations and encourage you to do the same.
Last year we launched our Be Kind Manningham initiative. We have been reminded in recent months that this message is still relevant – it never ceases to amaze me how much a smile (even from behind a mask) or a kind word can have a positive impact on someone else’s day.
We will continue to share stories of kindness on our social media and in our printed newsletter, Manningham Matters. To get involved, just use #bekindmanningham and tag us in your posts. Watch our video to find out more.
We have been celebrating the success of some great Manningham athletes recently. Last month we read about Donvale’s Brendon Smith and his bronze medal in the swimming at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. This month we’re celebrating Templestowe’s Li Na Lei and Qian Yang who each took home gold medals in the table tennis at the Paralympics as well as a silver in the team event.
A fun activity to get you and your family involved in is to activate your front porch during Global Porch Placemaking Week from 27 September to 3 October, to breathe life into our streets and neighbourhoods.
Since the start of the pandemic, we’ve seen some great porches (as well as gardens, driveways, and balconies) that have brought joy to the community. You may have seen some of these, including decorating front windows with children’s artwork, teddy bears peering through windows, book exchanges and chalk drawings. Learn how to get involved.
This October the Manningham Seniors Festival is going online. There’s lots to take part in from home, including entertainment, dancing, exercise, guest speakers and webinars. Supported by the Victorian Government, the festival is an annual event designed for and celebrating seniors.
In Council news, our new Council Plan 2021-2025 and 10 Year Financial Plan were adopted at our August Council Meeting. Our plans are our promise to you to pursue our community’s vision for the future and achieve the very best for Manningham.
Having just celebrated Father’s Day this past weekend, it was a special time for me to reflect on the importance of family. My hope is that everyone takes some time to pause and reflect on things to be grateful for and on how we can be kind to each other.
Cr Andrew Conlon
Mayor
