We are currently seeking community feedback on proposed upgrades to Burgundy Reserve. 

The proposal includes, an upgraded playspace and shelter, a new public toilet as well as a series of improvements to enhance the reserve for dogs and their owners.

Manningham Mayor, Councillor Carli Lange, said Burgundy Reserve is a popular spot for our local community. 

“We want to ensure Burgundy Reserve continues to be a space for families and local community members to enjoy and look forward to hearing your feedback on our proposed upgrade,” Cr Lange said. 

The concept plan includes:

• a relocated and upgraded fenced playspace
• an upgraded shelter
• a new two cubicle public toilet
• new shared path to connect Cellar Way to Burgundy Drive
• new path lighting 
• new chainmesh fencing along Burgundy Drive 
• new seats around the oval
• a new drinking fountain with dog bowl
• path realignment and upgrade for more passive recreation opportunities
• additional landscaping and trees across the site.
   

The playspace and shelter upgrade, as well as the new public toilet, are planned as part of our capital works program, scheduled to be completed over the next two years. 

The dog friendly upgrades are supported by the Victorian Government’s New and Upgraded Dog Parks Program. 

Volunteer-led community groups and clubs will receive new support under changes to the Manningham Volunteer Resource Service.

Manningham Council will move to a new delivery model for supporting volunteering once the current contract with external provider EV Strengthening Communities (formerly Eastern Volunteers) ends on 30 June 2025. 

Manningham Mayor, Cr Deirdre Diamante, said Council is committed to supporting volunteers and ensuring we continue to meet their evolving needs and aspirations. 

“Volunteers are the lifeblood of our community, and essential for the continued success of local clubs, groups and associations,” Cr Diamante said. 

“We are deeply grateful to our volunteers for their dedication to making Manningham a better place, whether that’s through community, sport, emergency services, environment or arts and local history groups, among others.

“We’ve valued our partnership with EV Strengthening Communities since 2019, and I’d like to thank them for their work in supporting volunteerism in Manningham,” she said.

In recent years, there have been significant shifts in the volunteering sector, and a gradual decline in people undertaking formal volunteering right across Australia.

“We have been listening to our local clubs and groups, who are seeing increasing demands on their time to meet the growing administrative, regulatory and funding requirements for volunteering activities,” Cr Diamante said.

“These demands are stretching our volunteers, requiring not only extra time, but specific skills.

“We want to ease the burden on volunteers, so they can get back to doing what they do best – supporting the Manningham community,” the Mayor added.

Further details of the new program will be made available in the coming months.

Manningham residents will be able to continue to search for volunteer roles through Volunteering Victoria.

This year, Manningham residents have raised more than $20,000 for local schools, clubs and community groups with the support of the Manningham Monster Community Raffle.

Manningham Mayor, Councillor Carli Lange, acknowledged the community effort, and the key role the community plays in fundraising.

"Thank you to our amazing community for your generous support! Because of you, $15,000 will go directly to the groups who participated and $5,000 will support the Manningham Charitable Fund. Your contributions make a big difference." Cr Lange said.

For every ticket sold for $2.00, groups receive $1.50 and the remaining 50 cents is donated to the Manningham Community Fund.

With a prize pool of $10,000 including five $1,000 Coles/Myer gift vouchers, and one $5,000 Coles/Myer gift voucher, the Monster Raffle prize draw was held on Wednesday 17 July.

Manningham residents, Alex and Adeline, were the lucky winners of a $1,000 Coles/Myer voucher.

The couple purchased tickets supporting both Milgate Primary School and 1st Templestowe Scout Group.

“We often participate in fundraising and buy tickets not thinking we are going to win, but so the money can go a good cause.” Alex said.

“My son attends 1st Templestowe Scout Group, and the leaders at the club always work so hard to give the kids a good experience, and Milgate Primary has also been a huge part of our lives with our two children going to school there, receiving such a quality education.

“We’re incredibly thankful for this win!” Alex said.

The Monster Community Raffle is held annually and will open again in April 2025.

“For 19 years, our raffle has been a cornerstone of community spirit. Together, we’ve made a significant impact, and we look forward to many more years of making a difference,” Cr Lange said.

“We are deeply grateful to our raffle partner, the Templestowe Bowling Club, whose support has been key to its success.”

The Manningham Community Fund supports community initiatives including homelessness and affordable housing, education and employment, diversity, inclusion, sustainability, and wellbeing programs throughout Manningham.

A full list of raffle winners is available on the Monster Community Raffle website.  
 

We are currently seeking community feedback on a proposed upgrade of the northern oval at Warrandyte Reserve to improve facilities for the community, as well as for dogs and their owners. 

We are inviting community members to share their thoughts about the proposal via Your Say Manningham closing on Monday 12 August. 

Manningham Mayor, Councillor Carli Lange, said Warrandyte Reserve is a hub for the local community in Warrandyte and popular with dog owners.

“Warrandyte Reserve is enjoyed by many local sports and recreation groups, residents, dogs and their owners.” Cr Lange said.

The proposed upgrades include:

• improvements to the path network between both ovals
• a new shelter at the northern oval with seating and storage facility built in
• a new drinking fountain with dog tap and bowl
• improved fencing to allow easier access into the ovals
• improved drainage and ground condition of the northern oval for better year-round use.

“We're proposing some dog-friendly improvements within the reserve and want to hear your feedback on the concept plan by 12 August,” Cr Lange said.

The proposed improvements at Warrandyte Reserve are supported by the Victorian Government’s New and Upgraded Dog Parks Program. 

Join us at the Manningham Asian Cultural Festival this Sunday for a free community celebration that will finish with a spectacular fireworks display.

Thousands of people are expected to attend the event at Doncaster Reserve on Sunday 9 March from 10.00am to 10.00pm.

A celebration of culture and community, the program will feature live music and performances including lion dancing and drumming, mouthwatering street food, rides and family friendly activities. The fireworks are expected to start at 9.00pm.

We’re proud to support this new festival, which is presented by the Asian Business Association of Whitehorse, organisers of the hugely popular annual Lunar New Year Festival in Box Hill.

Visit our festival tent where you can meet our Councillors throughout the day,  have a chat to our Healthy Ageing team about how we can help you to live and age well, and provide feedback on our arts, culture and local history programs in Manningham to help us develop a  new Arts Action Plan.

Festival-goers have the chance to win one of ten $50 Find Your Local shopping vouchers, simply by completing our short survey about the festival, which will help us plan for similar events in the future. Visit the Council festival tent to download your entry form. Terms and conditions apply*.

Don’t forget to drop into the Jackson Court shopping centre to browse more than 90 local traders.

Bring your family and friends and spread the word for what promises to be a fantastic day out.

For more information, visit the Manningham Asian Cultural Festival website.

Congratulations to our competition winners:

Sarah Guo, Joanne Ridge, Roy Luo, Denver Huynh, Joyz Lio, Eddie Luk, Qunfang Ll, Jenny Ong, Chris Yap, Seleana Ng.

*Read the Terms and Conditions for the Manningham Asian Cultural Festival feedback survey competition:

This year, Manningham residents have raised more than $20,000 for local schools, clubs and community groups with the support of the Manningham Monster Community Raffle.

Manningham Mayor, Councillor Carli Lange, acknowledged the community effort, and the key role the community plays in fundraising.

"Thank you to our amazing community for your generous support! Because of you, $15,000 will go directly to the groups who participated and $5,000 will support the Manningham Charitable Fund. Your contributions make a big difference." Cr Lange said.

For every ticket sold for $2.00, groups receive $1.50 and the remaining 50 cents is donated to the Manningham Community Fund.

With a prize pool of $10,000 including five $1,000 Coles/Myer gift vouchers, and one $5,000 Coles/Myer gift voucher, the Monster Raffle prize draw was held on Wednesday 17 July.

Manningham residents, Alex and Adeline, were the lucky winners of a $1,000 Coles/Myer voucher.

The couple purchased tickets supporting both Milgate Primary School and 1st Templestowe Scout Group.

“We often participate in fundraising and buy tickets not thinking we are going to win, but so the money can go a good cause.” Alex said.

“My son attends 1st Templestowe Scout Group, and the leaders at the club always work so hard to give the kids a good experience, and Milgate Primary has also been a huge part of our lives with our two children going to school there, receiving such a quality education.

“We’re incredibly thankful for this win!” Alex said.

The Monster Community Raffle is held annually and will open again in April 2025.

“For 19 years, our raffle has been a cornerstone of community spirit. Together, we’ve made a significant impact, and we look forward to many more years of making a difference,” Cr Lange said.

“We are deeply grateful to our raffle partner, the Templestowe Bowling Club, whose support has been key to its success.”

The Manningham Community Fund supports community initiatives including homelessness and affordable housing, education and employment, diversity, inclusion, sustainability, and wellbeing programs throughout Manningham.

A full list of raffle winners is available on the Monster Community Raffle website.  
 

Pride Night returned for its second year on Sunday 2 February, bringing together the LGBTQIA+ community and allies for an evening of fun at Aquarena. 

The event welcomed people of all ages and backgrounds to connect in a safe and inclusive space.

Now in it’s second year, Pride Night was bigger and better in 2025, featuring an great line-up of activities, including dazzling performances, fitness classes, smoothie-making bikes, and a DJ.

Manningham Youth Services also joined the fun, inviting everyone to get involved with some arts and craft!

Aquarena staff member Kirra, who has worked at both Pride Night events, reflected on the celebration.

“Seeing the joy on people’s faces and hearing from parents who were excited to attend for the first time made the night incredibly special,” Kirra said.

“There was something for everyone – from zumba and aqua classes to live music and delicious food. It was a privilege to be part of an event that champions inclusivity and celebrates our beautiful community.”

Events like Pride Night not only celebrate diversity but also create lasting connections and a stronger, more connected community. 

Volunteer-led community groups and clubs will receive new support under changes to the Manningham Volunteer Resource Service.

Manningham Council will move to a new delivery model for supporting volunteering once the current contract with external provider EV Strengthening Communities (formerly Eastern Volunteers) ends on 30 June 2025. 

Manningham Mayor, Cr Deirdre Diamante, said Council is committed to supporting volunteers and ensuring we continue to meet their evolving needs and aspirations. 

“Volunteers are the lifeblood of our community, and essential for the continued success of local clubs, groups and associations,” Cr Diamante said. 

“We are deeply grateful to our volunteers for their dedication to making Manningham a better place, whether that’s through community, sport, emergency services, environment or arts and local history groups, among others.

“We’ve valued our partnership with EV Strengthening Communities since 2019, and I’d like to thank them for their work in supporting volunteerism in Manningham,” she said.

In recent years, there have been significant shifts in the volunteering sector, and a gradual decline in people undertaking formal volunteering right across Australia.

“We have been listening to our local clubs and groups, who are seeing increasing demands on their time to meet the growing administrative, regulatory and funding requirements for volunteering activities,” Cr Diamante said.

“These demands are stretching our volunteers, requiring not only extra time, but specific skills.

“We want to ease the burden on volunteers, so they can get back to doing what they do best – supporting the Manningham community,” the Mayor added.

Further details of the new program will be made available in the coming months.

Manningham residents will be able to continue to search for volunteer roles through Volunteering Victoria.

We are currently seeking community ideas and input to help develop a masterplan for the future of Stintons Reserve in Park Orchards.

We are inviting community members to share their thoughts and ideas about what they would like to see at the reserve via a community survey, closing on Monday 29 July.

The masterplan will guide the future use, development and upgrade of facilities within the reserve over the next 20 years.

Manningham Mayor, Councillor Carli Lange, said Stintons Reserve is an important local reserve for sport, recreation and dog exercise activities in Park Orchards.

“This is a much-loved local reserve and we want to hear your ideas as we plan for its future,” Cr Lange said.

“We understand there are a wide variety of user groups and community members that use Stintons Reserve and want to make sure it meets the needs of our growing community now and into the future.

“The masterplan will look at how our community currently uses the reserve along with future uses and potential improvements.”

“I encourage everyone to find out more, get involved and tell us what you would like to see at Stintons Reserve by completing our community survey,” Cr Lange said.

“We want to continue to keep this space welcoming, accessible and inclusive, so that everyone can enjoy it for their health and wellbeing.”

Community input will help inform the development of a draft Stintons Reserve Masterplan, which will be released for public consultation and community feedback next year.

16 Days of Activism against Gender-based Violence runs from 25 November to 10 December each year. The international campaign was started by the Women’s Global Leadership Institute in 1991. It begins each year on the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women and runs until Human Rights Day.

This year’s global theme is “UNITE! Invest to prevent violence against women and girls”. For more information about the campaign, visit the United Nations Women Website.

Apply for a 16 Days of Activism small grant

This year, we're offering grants up to $1000 for community groups  delivery awareness-raising initiatives . 

How much is each small grant?  

Each grant is valued up to $1,000. The total grant pool is $7,000.  

When does the funding round begin?

What types of activities are included?

These grants support a range of one-off, innovative activities designed to spread the message that violence against women, girls and non-binary people is unacceptable in any context. 

Activities could include, but are not limited to: 

• Events (such as morning teas, exhibitions, book clubs or panel discussions), or 

• Digital campaigns (such as eNewsletters, social media or podcasts). 

Women,  girls and non-binary people from multicultural communities, First Nations communities, the LGBTQIA+ community or people living with mental health issues or disability may be more at risk of experiencing family violence. 

Applications that include messaging to these groups or consider intersectionality, will be favourably considered, as will groups that traditionally attract men and boys.

Who can apply?

You can apply for this grant if you are a community group or organisation that is registered as a not-for-profit organisation or a company limited by guarantee. Community groups, organisations who are not registered as not-for-profit organisations may apply if they are auspiced by and eligible not for profit organisation.

Following a review and community research on Manningham Matters, we are pleased to introduce a refreshed design for the magazine with our February 2025 issue.

Last year we held a series of focus groups with community members about the magazine and based on your feedback, we’ve made some changes to the design and content of your community magazine.

The February issue features a great mix of Council and community news, we hope you enjoy reading about what’s happening in Manningham.

Some of the new and updated features include:

• a refreshed magazine cover design for Manningham Matters
• a new way to read stories and news in your language – we have full length stories now available on our website which you can access using the QR code on the magazine cover 
• an updated and more prominent What’s On events calendar
• regular information about events and activities at local neighbourhood houses and libraries
• a new Council meeting round up feature
• stories that continue to celebrate our community and share our community’s voice.

Take a read of this month’s Manningham Matters, distributed from Monday 17 February.

The masterplan will guide the future use, development and upgrade of facilities within the reserve over the next 20 years.

Manningham Mayor, Councillor Carli Lange, said Stintons Reserve is an important local reserve for sport, recreation and dog exercise activities in Park Orchards.

“This is a much-loved local reserve and we want to hear your ideas as we plan for its future,” Cr Lange said.

“We understand there are a wide variety of user groups and community members that use Stintons Reserve and want to make sure it meets the needs of our growing community now and into the future.

“The masterplan will look at how our community currently uses the reserve along with future uses and potential improvements.”

Council is inviting community members to share their thoughts and ideas about what they would like to see at the reserve via a community survey, closing on Monday 29 July.

“I encourage everyone to find out more, get involved and tell us what you would like to see at Stintons Reserve by completing our community survey,” Cr Lange said.

“We want to continue to keep this space welcoming, accessible and inclusive, so that everyone can enjoy it for their health and wellbeing.”

Community input will help inform the development of a draft Stintons Reserve Masterplan, which will be released for public consultation and community feedback next year.

For more information and to complete the survey before Monday 29 July, visit YourSay Manningham Stintons Reserve Masterplan. 

Sadly, the increase in overt racism seen around Melbourne is also being experienced here in Manningham.

Councillors and Council officers meet with community members regularly and are aware of the current rise in racist vandalism, including offensive graffiti.

There is absolutely no place in our community for hate-based symbols, language or behaviour.

As a community, we all have a responsibility to call it out.

Council stands solid and united in condemning any racist behaviour.

We remove offensive or political graffiti on Council property within one business day of becoming aware and encourage everyone to report instances to Council on 9840 9333 or via our website.

To report vandalism in other locations, please contact Victoria Police on 131 444.

Manningham Mayor, Cr Carli Lange

Join over 5,000 locals who stay informed with Manningham eNews - delivered straight to your inbox each month.

What you'll find in each issue:

• News about Council projects, meetings and activities
• Updates on essential services, such as bins, recycling programs, waste drop off days, parks and playspaces
•  Explore workshops, festivals, and family-friendly fun, including free events
• Opportunities to get involved in public consultations and feedback
• Support resources and services for all ages.

 
View some of our past editions!

• Manningham eNews - February 2025
• Manningham eNews - December 2024
• Manningham eNews - July 2024
• Manningham eNews - February 2024

See our full archive of Manningham eNews.

Local community groups, sporting clubs and not-for-profit organisations are set to share in more than $290,000 through Manningham’s Annual Grant Program.

Grant applications open on Monday 3 February and eligible local groups can receive between $3,001 and $20,000 in funding.

Mayor Cr Deirdre Diamante said the program helped fund local initiatives, projects and activities that made a positive impact in Manningham.

“These include a wide range of community-driven projects such as arts, festivals and events, wellbeing programs, as well as inclusive and multicultural activities,” Cr Diamante said.

“We want to support our outstanding local organisations who do a wonderful job in helping make Manningham a vibrant, connected and inclusive community for all.”

Grants are available in the following categories:

• Community Development
• Arts
• Festivals and Events
• Healthy Ageing.

The Manningham Toy Library was one of last year’s successful recipients. The library received a grant to support its free 40th Anniversary Messy Play Day.

Toy Library Coordinator Anlina Jones said the event will be a wonderful way to showcase the benefits of the group to the Manningham community.

“We love running messy play events, but it can be costly purchasing the equipment required, so this grant was such an amazing opportunity for us. We can really celebrate the 40 years of play at the toy library,” Anlina said.

Applications for Manningham’s Annual Grant Program are open until 5.00pm, Tuesday 11 March. 

To assist groups with their applications, Council will host the following information sessions:

• Grant Writing Workshop, Wednesday 12 February, 10.00am to 12.00pm, Manningham Function Centre.
• Healthy Ageing Grant Information Session, Thursday 13 February, 11.00am to 12.00pm, Manningham Function Centre.
• Online Q&A session, Wednesday 19 February, 4.30pm to 5.00pm.

The sessions are free, but registrations are essential. For details visit the Annual Grants Program page.

Manningham Council is encouraging local seniors community groups and clubs to apply for a new Seniors Club Support Grants program, aimed at supporting initiatives that benefit and empower older people in Manningham.

These grants provide up to $8,000 in funding and can be used for a wide range of activities, including digital literacy programs, creative writing classes, or exercise sessions.

Manningham Mayor, Councillor Carli Lange invites clubs and group to apply for a grant.

“This is a chance for our dedicated seniors clubs and groups to receive support for new programs that boost the health and wellbeing of their members.” Cr Lange said.

“It’s also an opportunity to support initiatives where our older community, family members and carers to come together and make meaningful connections.

“A lack of social connection can really affect older individuals and their caregivers. These grants provide great opportunities to get involved in a safe and welcoming environment.”

Applications open on Monday 5 August and close on Wednesday 4 September.

Council is hosting a free grant writing workshop for existing Seniors Clubs members on Tuesday 6 August at the Manningham Function Centre, 699 Doncaster Road, Doncaster.

Bookings are essential and limited to two people per organisation.

To register, visit manningham.vic.gov.au/events/manningham-grant-writing-workshop-seniors-club-support-grant. 

For more information or to apply, visit manningham.vic.gov.au/community-grants or contact the Community Grants team on 9840 9333 or grants@manningham.vic.gov.au.

Manningham Council has proudly honoured the exceptional individuals and organisations making a meaningful difference in the community at the 2024 Civic Awards.

Held last week, family and friends of the nominees gathered at the Manningham Function Centre for the awards ceremony.

The nominees were celebrated for their outstanding contributions, and winners were announced for their exceptional community service.

Brian Tyedin was awarded Manningham Citizen of the Year for his work with Rotary over the past 25 years.

“Being nominated is a reward in itself and to be recognised for what we are doing in the community,” Brian said.

“There are so many opportunities to volunteer in this community and so many people doing great things.

“I hope that by receiving this award, I can work with other organisations to achieve an even better outcome for Manningham and help others in the community,” Brian said.  

This year there were two recipients of the Doreen Stoves Volunteer of the Year Award, Luke Bastian and Kate Gniel.

Luke was recognised for his outstanding commitment to the local Scouting community over the past two decades. Park Orchards-based mum of three, Kate, was recognised for her remarkable work in the community and with the Sharks Junior Football Club.

“Volunteering fills my heart and makes me feel content. My youngest son was diagnosed with leukemia a few years ago, and during that time, we were overwhelmed by the kindness of so many people,” Kate said.

“That’s when we discovered the true power of community and felt deeply connected. It inspired us to give back and help others in the same way we were helped.”

Meet the winners – 2024 Manningham Civic Awards

2024 Citizen of the Year – Brian Tyedin 

Brian was awarded Citizen of the Year for his tireless support and service to the local community. He is a champion of the Rotary movement and has served Rotary and the Manningham community with distinction.

2024 Doreen Stoves Volunteer of the Year – Luke Bastian and Kate Gniel 

Luke Bastian 

Luke has played a crucial role in the Scouting community for over two decades. His remarkable contributions to Rotary and the Doncaster Baseball Club have also been significant. Luke is a dedicated member of the Manningham community and exemplifies the qualities of an exceptional citizen.

Kate Gniel

Kate is an outstanding individual who consistently makes remarkable impact in the community through her volunteering efforts. Over the past five years, Kate has dedicated her time and energy to enhancing and enriching the lives of others. In 2022 Kate became the first ever female president of the Sharks Junior Football Club and has focussed efforts on making the mental health of players and families first and foremost.

2024 Sports Volunteer of the Year – Anthony Milicia 

Anthony dedicates himself to volunteering with Manningham Juventus Football Club as if it were a second job, setting a positive example and motivating others. His actions serve as a source of inspiration and consistently makes himself available to others.

Community Organisation of the Year – Rotary Club of Manningham City

The Rotary Club of Manningham City Inc. received its official charter on 1 July 2023, bringing together Rotary clubs and individuals with diverse talents who have contributed to Manningham for over 45 years. The Club’s dedication to serving the community spans across all demographics, capabilities and requirements and plays a crucial role in maintaining connections among people.

In addition to the 2024 winners, the following nominees were highly commended for their outstanding contributions:

Highly Commended, Sports Volunteer of the Year – Michael James 

Michael’s dedication to enhancing the Sharks Football Club has positively impacted the lives of many. His strong belief in fostering sporting values and essential life skills underscores his passion for nurturing well-rounded individuals. Michael has introduced programs that have contributed to the overall growth and success of the club’s players.

Highly Commended, Community Organisation of the Year – Manningham Toy Library 

Founded 39 years ago, the Manningham Toy Library has served as a vital resource for the Templestowe Lower community, positively impacting the lives of numerous families. The Library’s focus on inclusivity and accessibility sees it offer a wide selection of toys that address different needs and developmental phases, highlighting its commitment to supporting the entire community.

To find out more, visit manningham.vic.gov.au/manningham-civic-awards.   
 

We’re looking for passionate and dedicated community members to join our Recreation and Sport, and Youth advisory committees.

Our advisory committees provide an opportunity for locals to share expert advice, guidance and ideas to help drive positive change and outcomes for Manningham.

As an advisory committee member, you will:

• play an active role in shaping the decisions Council makes for your community
• gain valuable experience and skills in leadership, strategic thinking and collaboration
• network with other community leaders, learning from their experience
• share your interests and passions with the Manningham community.

Recreation and Sport Advisory Committee (RASAC)

Do you want to make a difference in recreation and sport for the Manningham community? We’re seeking individuals of all ages, abilities and cultural backgrounds to:

• share their experience and insights
• help improve sporting and recreational outcomes
• ensure Manningham remains an active and vibrant community.

Who can apply

Committees are open to people who live, work, play or study in Manningham. Unfortunately, presidents, secretaries, and treasurers of sports clubs are ineligible to apply.

How to apply

Complete the online Expression of Interest form. 

If you need help to complete the Expression of Interest form, email Recreation at recreation2@manningham.vic.gov.au. 

Before applying, read the Terms of Reference.

Apply now

Manningham Youth Advisory Committee (MYAC)

Are you passionate about the future of young people in Manningham? Join the Youth Advisory Committee to:

• help shape government decisions that impact young people
• be a voice for youth in the community
• influence programs and policies that affect young people
• develop leadership skills and make a lasting impact.

Who can apply

Committees are open to young people between the ages of 15 and 25 who live, work, play or study in Manningham.

How to apply

Complete the online Expression of Interest form.

If you need help to complete the Expression of Interest form, email Children Youth and Family Services at youthadvisory@manningham.vic.gov.au. 

Before applying, read the Terms of Reference.

Apply now