I hope this message finds you safe and well as we continue to navigate this unique year.

On Sunday 22 November, the Premier announced further easing of COVID-19 restrictions as Victoria enters the Last Step in its roadmap to reopening.

These changes are great news for local businesses which are now able to welcome more people for indoor exercise, hospitality and other activities.

We also welcome increased limits for public and private gatherings, which means that more of our community can come together as we head towards the festive season.

I encourage you to visit the DHHS website to read a full list of the changes to restrictions effective from 11.59pm Sunday 22 November, which are now in effect.

I would like to say thankyou to our outgoing Councillors, Paul McLeish, Sophy Galbally, Dot Haynes, Paula Piccinini and Mike Zafiropoulos AM, for their hard work and dedication to the community over the last four years. We wish them all the best and thank them for their service.

We have a fantastic edition of Manningham Matters for you this week.

We have developed a draft landscape masterplan for Ruffey Lake Park to provide clear direction for the future design, development and management of the park over the next 15 years. Find out what our community has told us they love and want us to improve, and have your say.

This week marks two very important awareness campaigns in our community. 16 Days of Activism against Gender-based Violence is currently underway until 10 December. Find out how you can help prevent sexism, sexual harassment and disrespect towards women.

On 3 December, International Day of People with Disability will be raising awareness for disabilities that are not always visible or obvious. Read our story to find out more.

The festive season is almost upon us, so I encourage you to share your goodwill this Christmas season as there are families in our community who are experiencing hardship and who might have been doing it extra tough this year. Find out how you can help them experience the festive season.

I look forward to seeing you out in the Manningham community.

Stay safe,

Cr Andrew Conlon
MAYOR