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.

Road improvements, targeted education and speed zone reviews are key priorities in Manningham’s draft Road Safety Strategy 2025-2035.

Manningham Council is seeking feedback on the draft strategy, which includes clear objectives and a detailed action plan for implementation. It aims to enhance road safety - reducing traffic-related accidents, injuries and fatalities.

Manningham Mayor, Councillor Deirdre Diamante said it will serve as a roadmap for proactive projects and programs over the next decade.

“We’re committed to improving our transport system as we strive for ‘vision zero’ – where nobody is seriously injured or killed on our roads,”

“To plan for safer roads, we needed to first understand the local issues and experiences of road users in Manningham,” said Cr Diamante.

“We received more than 200 responses to last year’s community survey, which told us what matters most to our community.

“Now we want to ensure the proposed strategy and action plan accurately reflects community priorities,” she said.

The proposed actions include:

• conducting road safety audits in high-risk areas
• upgrading infrastructure
• speed limit reviews
• continual road user education
• updating of the Manningham Walking and Cycling Strategy.

The draft strategy was developed using local road safety data, input from road safety partners and aligns with State and Federal strategies.

Community to have their say
Have your say on the draft Road Safety Strategy 2025-2035 by completing the survey via Your Say Manningham, until 21 February 2025.

Feedback from community and Councillor consultations will inform the final version of the Road Safety Strategy. It will be presented for Council endorsement in early 2025.

For more information, go to Your Say Manningham – subscribe to the project to receive email updates.
 

The first phase of the Melbourne Hill Road drainage upgrades is now complete, and Manningham Council is preparing for phase two works to start late next year.

Manningham Mayor, Cr Deirdre Diamante said the completion of phase one marks a significant milestone for the project.

“Phase one has tackled key safety and flooding issues for locals, while also enhancing the local habitat through planting of species of native vegetation to provide shelter and food as well as contributing to the overall biodiversity.”

This major project, covering approximately 35 hectares of residential area, aims to reduce flood risk to protect local properties and businesses.

Commencing earlier this year, with the installation of underground drainage along the roadside, widening of the road, and removal of deep depressions and driveway culverts.

We are now preparing for the second phase of construction, which will focus on upgrading the drainage systems within easements on private properties. This phase will improve stormwater management and provide flood protection for properties by addressing surface water runoff.

“We’re looking forward to the next stage of construction starting next year, as it will provide essential flood protection for properties along Melbourne Hill Road,” the Mayor added.

Construction is expected to begin in late 2025 and take approximately one year to complete. However, the schedule may be affected by weather conditions and the potential relocation of underground service assets.

In the meantime, Council will continue its planting program, supporting the establishment of new native plantings over the coming years.

For further information and the latest project updates, visit Your Say Manningham.

Manningham Council is seeking community feedback on a proposal to rebuild an expanded Gum Nut Gully Preschool at a new nearby location in Doncaster East.

The current preschool building in Larnoo Drive is reaching its end of life and is unable to expand to provide more places for local families.

“The much-loved Gum Nut Gully Preschool has been part of our community for almost 40 years,” Manningham Mayor Deirdre Diamante said.

“We value the unique services like the bush kinder program and want to ensure the preschool can continue providing local children with quality early years education for many more years to come.”

Council has received Victorian Government funding through the Building Blocks program to build a new modular two-room preschool with places for 66 children in 3 and 4-year-old kinder programs.

However, investigations have found the modular preschool cannot be built at the existing location without significant impact on trees and vegetation. Challenging site conditions also make the project unviable.  

Corsican Reserve, 400m away in Corsican Avenue, has been identified as the most suitable nearby location. Manningham Council is inviting feedback on this proposal and no decision has yet been made. Under the proposal, the existing Larnoo Drive site would be retained for community use.

“We want to support local families by providing them access to more free kinder places locally as well as replace the ageing facility,” Cr Diamante said.

“There are many important considerations, and we want to hear what the community has to say before making any decisions about this proposal,” Cr Diamante said.

The proposal is open for community feedback until 11:59pm, Tuesday 2 September at Your Say Manningham.
 

We have signed the contract to purchase 576-578 Park Road, Park Orchards as part of its planning for a new Park Orchards Community House and Learning Centre.

A priority action in our Community Infrastructure Plan, discussions and advocacy have already commenced for the replacement of this popular neighbourhood house and it is hoped that this significant investment will be the catalyst for investment from other levels of government.

Our Mayor, Deirdre Diamante, said the existing community house needs replacing to bring programs and services together.

"The Community House is widely used and offers a variety of programs and services in learning, fitness and art for all ages, and includes a well-loved childcare facility.

“The current building is coming to the end of its useful life, has limited accessibility and is too small to cater to all programs. These limitations have resulted in programs moving to different locations and spread across multiple local venues.

“By bringing these programs together into one building with better access and more space, we can improve efficiency and better support the community’s growing needs.”

The location of the new property, adjacent to the existing Community House at 572 Park Road, will allow for more space for the variety of programs on offer.

“Located in the heart of Park Orchards, as part of a community and education precinct and near public bus transport, the site will maintain convenient access to childcare, schools, recreational areas, and shops.” Cr Diamante added.

The purchase of 576-578 Park Road is part of our long-term planning to replace this important neighbourhood house for Park Orchards.

Neighbourhood houses are predominantly funded by government grants and additional state and commonwealth government funding will be needed to deliver this new community facility.

“We have purchased this property as part of our long-term plan for the community house and local area. We’re pleased to be able to secure a site for a new centre in Park Orchards and will continue to advocate for State and Federal funding to deliver it.”

The purchase was funded by our Strategic Fund which is part of our 10 Year Financial Plan 2024/25 to 2033/34.

For more information, visit Your Say Manningham.

We’re inviting Expressions of Interest to join the Manningham Flooding and Stormwater Management Community Reference Panel, for its second two-year term.

This is your chance to make an impact on how we sustainably manage our water resources, care for our environment and manage flood risk into the future.

All Manningham residents and property owners are welcome to apply.

Learn more and submit an expression of interest via our Flooding and Stormwater Management Your Say Manningham page.

The expression of interest process will close at 11.59pm on Friday 29 November 2024. 

Manningham residents can now receive tailored support across most stages of the electrification journey, thanks to Solar Savers. 

Solar Savers has expanded its program to include more suppliers and product choices, as well as home energy assessments. Through Solar Savers, residents can now also see the potential savings involved in going electric, as well as the most impactful upgrades for their home. 

Solar Savers is a trusted local government initiative that offers personalised advice, vetted quotes and ongoing support to ensure households make informed decisions on home electrification. 

Alongside solar panels, batteries, reverse cycle air conditioners and hot water heat pumps, the program now supports upgrades like EV chargers, induction cooktops, draught-proofing and insulation. 

Home energy assessments, performed by Government-accredited assessors, provide tailored in-home advice – helping householders choose the best upgrades for their home.

Manningham Mayor, Councillor Deirdre Diamante said this offering will provide residents with greater confidence, choice and convenience when making energy-efficient upgrades.

“Solar Savers takes the hassle out of researching energy upgrades and finding reliable suppliers,” Cr Diamante said.

“By simplifying the switch to electric appliances and systems, we’re supporting our community to reduce emissions and reach our target of net zero by 2035,” she said.

Electrifying your home helps lower energy bills, while also contributing to cleaner, greener Manningham.

Learn more at manningham.vic.gov.au/electrify-your-life.

Getting involved in climate action is vital to creating a more liveable future. We’re making this action easier by offering resources, events, programs and partnerships. 

Since we recognised the Climate Emergency in 2020, we’ve introduced several initiatives to help us move towards our zero emission targets – for Council by 2028 and for the Manningham community by 2035. 

Here’s how we’re supporting you to act on climate, both individually and together as a community.

Individuals: How we can support 

We’re making individual change feel less solo by sharing handy resources, connecting you with government discounts and even providing a year’s supply of compostable bin liners. 

	1. Resources and discounts to go electric
	We’re supporting households to go electric with free resources, webinars and information sessions. Residents can also access installers and government discounts through our partnership with Solar Savers. The benefits? The opportunity to create a healthier, more efficient home while also powering a cleaner future.
	2. A network of public electric vehicle (EV) chargers
	Considering purchasing an electric vehicle (EV)? Owning one will soon be more convenient in Manningham, as we’re rolling out a network of nine public EV chargers from early 2025. The chargers will be powered by 100 per cent renewable energy, through government accredited GreenPower.
	3. FOGO support (and a free roll of liners!)
	The FOGO service is one of the simplest ways to reduce carbon emissions.  By using our FOGO bins, we can decrease the waste sent to landfill to create a healthier environment for us all. This means placing the right items in your FOGO bins and using the certified compostable liners (that meet the AS4736 standards), as these decompose.  To make this simpler, we’re providing each Manningham household with a free roll of 150 compostable liners (approximately one year’s supply), available for collection from the Manningham Civic Centre or Council Depot. We’re also sharing FOGO tips and tricks, ‘how to’ videos, translated language guides and more to help you with FOGO. Explore our helpful FOGO resources.
	4. Clothes swap days
	Fast fashion has a negative impact on our environment, accounting for 10 per cent of human-caused greenhouse gas emissions. An alternative to this?  buying secondhand and vintage swapping clothes. Clothes swap days are a fantastic way to refresh your wardrobe and meet new people. Here at Council, we regularly run clothing exchange days. See when the next one is.

Our community: How we’re helping 

Our impact is greater when we work together. That’s why we’re facilitating community events and connecting you to local groups who make a positive difference.  

	5. Tree planting days
	Planting trees is one of the best and simplest ways to take climate action, while making Manningham a greener and more beautiful place to live and work.  Join us next National Tree Day (Sunday 28 July) to plant trees together. Check our What's on event calendar each July to find planting locations.
	6. Access to community groups
	Local environmental groups are a fantastic opportunity to connect with neighbours and make a difference in your shared backyard. We can connect you to: Andersons Creek Landcare Group Jumping Creek Catchment Landcare Group Friends Of Warrandyte State Park Wonga Park Environment Group Friends of Park Orchards Reserve Friends of Yarra Valley Parks
	7. A regular community garden
	The Doncaster Hill Community Garden is a friendly space for anyone interested in gardening and making new friends. Meeting every second Tuesday morning, volunteers tend to the garden with all produce donated to Doncare’s food relief program. Register for the next session.
	8. Sustainable schools program
	We run several programs to encourage local schools to protect and care for our natural environment, as well as sustainable education programs for our teacher network. This includes: Eastern Alliance for Sustainable Learning Resource Smart Schools Program Environmental Leadership Program for Schools Learn more about our schools programs.

Manningham Council would like to inform residents that from Tuesday 28 January 2025 through to mid March, your household may receive a call from an independent market research agency, National Field Services. They have been commissioned to conduct our 2025 Community Satisfaction Survey on behalf of the council. Please be assured that your details and individual responses are confidential.

The Community satisfaction survey is a yearly requirement. For these surveys, the market agency reaches out by phone to 400 randomly selected residents. The results of the phone conversations are then analysed, reported back to us, and discussed internally. 

This helps us to learn more about our performance across several areas. It also helps us to understand where changes and improvements are necessary.

Read more about last year’s community satisfaction survey.

Manningham’s leafy streets are a defining feature of our vibrant community. As our neighbourhoods continue to evolve, it’s more important than ever to protect and strengthen our tree canopy.

Why every tree counts in Manningham

Canopy trees are large, mature trees that provide shade. They reduce urban heat, support biodiversity, enhance air quality and create healthy environments for everyone.

With the largest loss of tree cover in Manningham occurring on private land, every tree matters – and your garden is one of the most powerful places to start. By planting and protecting canopy trees at home, you can help rebuild local tree cover and support our community’s long-term environmental health.

How to choose the right canopy tree for your garden

Manningham’s diverse landscapes mean different areas are better suited to different tree species.

Wondering which tree suits your garden best? Indigenous species are perfectly suited to our local climate and soils, and also improve biodiversity. Native Splendour provides a list of trees and shrubs indigenous to Manningham.

Alternatively, explore our Precinct and Tree Character Mapping Guide – a helpful tool to match your location with the ideal tree species.

Simply identify your precinct, then browse the recommended tree palette for your area. If you're looking to plant a canopy tree, be sure to check the column marked ‘Large’ for options that offer generous shade and long-term impact.

Things to keep in mind when selecting your tree

• Growth and space: Select a tree that will have the space to reach its natural size. Consider how close the tree is to buildings and other structures. If you’re unsure about the underground utility infrastructure in your garden, check out Before You Dig Australia (BYDA). 
• Supporting wildlife: Native trees provide food and shelter for local wildlife and boost biodiversity. Explore our gardening guide, Native Splendour, to find a list of our indigenous trees and shrubs.  
• Seasonal changes: Evergreen trees keep their leaves all year long, providing consistent greenery, while deciduous trees drop them seasonally – allowing for more winter sun. With both providing benefits, it’s a matter of preference.  
• Soil type: Different trees grow best in different soils. Consider whether your soil is sandy, clay-based or well-draining – and choose a tree that suits.  

We deeply appreciate your efforts in helping us preserve and grow our urban forest. 
 

Manningham Council has welcomed more than $450,000 in Victorian Government funding to support three major recreation and leisure projects, including the Aquarena Aquatic and Leisure Centre outdoor redevelopment.

Mayor Cr Deirdre Diamante met with North-Eastern Metropolitan MP Sonja Terpstra, and the new Federal Member for Menzies, Gabriel Ng, MP, at Aquarena this week for the funding announcement. The three projects that have received support through the 2024-25 Local Sports Infrastructure Fund, are:

• Aquarena outdoor redevelopment: $250,000
• Domeney Reserve sports field LED floodlight upgrade: $162,937
• Manningham Recreation Strategy: $40,000.

“We’re grateful to receive this critical financial support through Sonja Terpstra and the Victorian Government’s 2024-25 Local Sports Infrastructure Fund,” Cr Diamante said.

“This funding will go toward important projects that benefit the health, wellbeing and safety of our community in Manningham.

“Aquarena has been part of my life for as long as I can remember. From learn to swim lessons in the old outdoor 25m pool, to hot summer days climbing those endless stairs to the car park. Aquarena is part of the fabric of Manningham.”

Sonja Terpstra said, “The Allan Labor Government is delivering on its promise to upgrade Aquarena at Doncaster. As a seasoned swimmer myself, I couldn't be more excited about what this means for locals in Doncaster and surrounding suburbs who love to swim.

“We're also investing $162,937 for LED lighting at Domeney Reserve in Park Orchards and $40,000 towards Manningham Council's recreation strategy. These investments ensure our community sporting facilities are modernised and accessible, which means more people can enjoy playing local sport right on their doorstep.”

The redevelopment of the outdoor precinct at Aquarena will see a new 50m outdoor pool, family zone with interactive water play, splash pad and toddler pool, spectator seating, change rooms, a new café and more.

At Domeney Reserve, the sports field floodlighting will be upgraded to a minimum of 100LUX to meet the needs for evening AFL play. This will improve facility capacity and participant safety and ensure the lighting meets appropriate standards.

A new Manningham Recreation Strategy will help guide the future provision of community-based sport, recreation and leisure opportunities for residents over the next 10 years.

Image: Federal Member for Menzies Gabriel Ng, MP, Manningham Mayor, Cr Deirdre Diamante and North-Eastern Metropolitan MP Sonja Terpstra at Aquarena for the funding announcement.

We’re gearing up to improve bike riding facilities across Manningham over the next 10 years and are seeking feedback on the draft Recreational Bike Facilities Plan.

The draft plan outlines eight proposed locations for new or improved recreational cycling facilities that cater to all ages and skill levels.

Key features include dirt jumps, pump tracks, flow trails, and bike playgrounds. 

Proposed locations: 

Have your say

Review the draft plan and complete our short survey by 5.00pm, Sunday 22 June.

Your feedback will help shape the final Recreational Bike Facilities Plan.

Need information in a different way? 

If you would like this information in a different format, please contact manningham@manningham.vic.gov.au or 9840 9333. 

Manningham residents are invited to come together and celebrate Clean Up Australia Day on Sunday 2 March, with a clean up event at Koonung Creek Linear Park from 10.00am to 1.00pm.

Manningham Mayor, Councillor Deirdre Diamante encourages the local community to get involved.

“Clean Up Australia Day is coming up and a great way to take collective action to help our parks, waterways and wildlife.”

Manningham is home to a variety of parks and reserves as well as rivers and creeks that connect to larger water systems. Unfortunately, litter is being found in many of these areas, which can endanger waterways and wildlife.

When our waste ends up on the ground, it doesn’t just stay there – it washes into local waterways, especially during rainy or windy weather.

This litter can disrupt water quality and create hazards for our aquatic life, making it harder for plants and animals to thrive. Wildlife can also mistake plastic bags, food wrappers or small debris for food.

Clean Up Australia Day is a chance to take positive, practical action.

“By keeping litter out of our natural environment, we can create a cleaner, healthier Manningham for all.”

Event details

Sunday 2 March 2025

10.00am to 1.00pm

Koonung Creek Linear Park, 105 Leeds Street, Doncaster East, enter via Boronia Reserve

Gloves, litter collection gear, and a barbecue lunch will be provided. Registration is required.

"It’s incredibly rewarding to get outside, connect with nature and work together to make a positive impact – plus, the free barbecue is always a bonus!” Cr Diamante said.

For more information about this event or to register, visit manningham.vic.gov.au/events/clean-australia-day.

We love our pooches in Manningham. You've told us which dog friendly parks get your dog's wag of approval and here are your top 5 revealed.

Get out and about and test out one of the top 5 on your next walk.

5. Finns Reserve

Perfect for dogs who love a long walk. 

Duncan Street, Lower Templestowe

The surrounding bushland trails of Finns Reserve will let you and your dog be one with nature and keep away from the hustle and bustle of the streets.

In open spaces near Wombat Bend enjoy a game of fetch or tug of war. Don't forget that you will need to keep a distance of 15 metres from the playground.

Visit Finns Reserve - Wombat Bend.

4. Banksia Park

Perfect for your morning walkies

3 Templestowe Road,  Bulleen

Located near the Yarra River and managed by Parks Victoria, the off leash area at Banksia Park gives you stunning views while both you and your pooch stretch your legs.

If your furry friend wants to run off lead, the Cherry Blossom Loop of Banksia Park is fenced so you can easily keep your eye on dogs who may like to wander. 

You can also pop a leash on your pet and take a walk around the rest of Banksia Park. Bring a rug and a bite to eat and enjoy the picnic perfect park.

Visit Banksia Park.

3. Aranga Reserve

The perfect place for your dog to show off to their doggy friends.

Eastway Avenue, Donvale

This is a great place for you to train your furry companion, for socialisation or agility training.

Aranga Reserve is Manningham's dog activity hub. The fully fenced dog activity centre will help keep your dog safe while they socialise with the other dogs.

Energetic pups can jump, crawl and climb using the range of agility equipment on offer at Aranga Reserve

Why not make it a family outing, and bring a picnic to eat at the nearby picnic tables and let your children have fun on the playground.

Visit Aranga Reserve.

2. Warrandyte River Reserve 

Yarra Street, Warrandyte

Head to Warrandyte for your next dogs' day out and let them take in the sights and smells that beautiful Warrandyte has to offer.

Sit by the tranquil and picturesque Yarra River and simply watch the world go by. Or explore the walking trail with your canine companion, enjoying the natural bush area.

Finish your day with a treat at one of the many local cafes - a great day out for humans and dogs.

Visit Warrandyte River Reserve.

1. Ruffey Lake Park 

Enough space for your dogs to roam to their heart's desire - it’s the park that has it all

There are plenty of walking tracks throughout the park or if running wildly through the grass is your dog's thing, then Ruffey Lake Park is all their doggy dreams come true.

If all that running has made you and your pooch thirsty, then refresh at one of the pet friendly drinking fountains.

With plenty of playgrounds, barbecues, picnic tables and toilets, you can make it a full day outing with the whole family.

To protect vegetation in the park, there are some areas that are fenced, so please remember to keep your dog out of these areas. Plan your next trip to Ruffey Lake Park with your dog.

Visit Ruffey Lake Park. 

Did you know there are 20 virtual fence posts positioned along Jumping Creek Road, between Nelson Drive and the entrance to Warrandyte State Park’s Jumping Creek Reserve, to protect local wildlife and help reduce roadkill?

Installed by Manningham Council as part of the Jumping Creek Road upgrade, these innovative virtual fences are designed to save animals’ lives by releasing sound and light when a car approaches.

Manningham Mayor, Councillor Deirdre Diamante, said the initiative is an important step towards addressing wildlife road fatalities.

“These virtual fences are a fantastic way to protect our local wildlife, especially in areas where animals frequently cross the road,” Cr Diamante said.

“We strategically placed these fences near Jumping Creek, as animals use creeks as habitat corridors.” 

“You will see the fence posts along the side of the road… and we encourage residents to be aware and help us keep our wildlife safe.”

While they might look like street posts, these virtual fences play a crucial role in enhancing road safey for both wildlife and drivers. 

Local wildlife rescuer, Katja Gutwein, has seen the benefits of these fences firsthand.

“The virtual fence is a low-cost solution that has drastically reduced wildlife fatalities and improved safety for all road users,” Ms Gutwein said. 

If you spot any damage to the fences, contact Manningham Council on 9840 9333 or email environment@manningham.vic.gov.au. 

The fences were installed as part of the Jumping Creek Road upgrade, which aims to improve road safety for all road users.

For more information on this project, visit yoursay.manningham.vic.gov.au/jumping-creek-road-upgrade.