Each year we check in with our residents to see how we're doing. We want to understand your views on what living in Manningham is like. The way we do this is through an independently conducted community satisfaction survey.

For these surveys, we reach out by phone to 400 of our 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. 

You can find out how we are doing by reading the report below.

Here's an update on some recent and upcoming works delivered as part of the Ruffey Lake Park Masterplan. 

New public artwork at Boulevarde Hill 

The new sculpture by Natasha Johns-Messenger was installed in June this year.

Named EllipseCircleView, this artwork draws inspiration from the panoramic views of Ruffey Lake Park. Its simple geometric forms encourage visitors to contemplate their surroundings and appreciate the beauty of the landscape.

Find out more about the artist and artwork.

Bridges and boardwalks

Works commencing soon

Starting in October 2024 and continuing through 2025, we’ll be enhancing the pathways around Ruffey Lake Park. These works aim to improve accessibility and connectivity, creating a better experience for park users.

Works will be carried out in stages through 2025, and will include:

King Street pedestrian bridge

We’re building a new bridge across Ruffey Creek to provide a safe and accessible all-weather connection for pedestrians. The bridge will offer an alternative to the existing narrow footpath along King Street.

These works will begin later this month and are expected to be completed in December. This schedule is subject to weather conditions.

King Street underpass widening

We’re widening the existing path under the King Street pedestrian bridge. The upgraded 2.5 metre wide shared path will support pedestrians and cyclists travelling through the area.

These works are scheduled to begin in 2025.

Quarry pedestrian bridge

We’re building a new bridge at the Quarry to provide a safe and accessible path for pedestrians. These works will likely begin in 2025.

Ruffey Lake boardwalk

We’re building a boardwalk along Ruffey Lake to create a safe, accessible, and visually appealing pathway that encourages the community to enjoy the lake and its surroundings.

The boardwalk construction is expected to start in 2025.

We’ll continue to publish updates on the works and schedule on the Ruffey Lake Masterplan Your Say Manningham page – subscribe to receive updates via email. 

Connecting our community through new facility construction is one of the ways we’re building a better Manningham.

As part of our 2024/25 Capital Works Program, we’re building a new community facility at Rieschiecks Reserve.

The new modular building will be used by the Doncaster Templestowe Historical Society and other community groups.

The Visitor Centre will include:

• an exhibition space
• a meeting room
• offices
• public toilets
• kitchen
• an accessible path to Schramms Cottage.

Featuring an environmentally sustainable design, this building will create a welcoming interface to the Schramms Cottage Museum Complex.
 

Where is it?

The Visitor Centre will be built at Rieschiecks Reserve, between Schramm’s Cottage and the 1st Doncaster East Scout Hall, Doncaster East. 

When will the works happen?

Construction will likely begin in early September 2024 and be completed by mid 2025.

This schedule is subject to weather conditions and third-party approvals.

We’re delivering this project as part of our 2024/25 Capital Works Program. 

How will the works affect me?

The works will take place on weekdays during the hours of 7.00am and 5.00pm. 

During construction, you may notice:

• Construction noise 

• Minor traffic delays on Victoria Street, between George Street and Owens Street. 

• Footpath closures

• Reduced parking available at the Schramms Cottage Museum Complex and the 1st Doncaster East Scout Hall. 

We will have traffic management and signage on site to guide you through the area. 

We appreciate your patience and understanding while we work to improve the footpath connections in your area.

Questions?

If you have any questions about these works, contact us.

The first phase of the Melbourne Hill Road drainage upgrade is now complete, and we're preparing for phase two works to start late next year.

Our 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're 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, we will continue the 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.

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

While it might look like a regular street post, this is a ‘virtual fence’, designed to protect our local wildlife.

Virtual fences are activated by approaching headlights and emit sound and light to deter animals from crossing the road. 

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,” she explained.

By preventing animals from darting onto the road, these fences help protect both wildlife and drivers.

If you see a flashing light along Jumping Creek Road, it’s likely from a virtual fence. We’ve installed 20 in the area to help protect both wildlife and road users.

We know the virtual fences can look suspiciously like cameras, but these lights are alerting animals to your car’s presence and deterring them from crossing the road.  

Please keep our wildlife safe by leaving the fences alone. 

If you spot any damage to the fences, contact us on (03) 9840 9333 or email environment@manningham.vic.gov.au. 

These fences were installed as part of the Jumping Creek Road upgrade. 

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

Painted Country – a new major exhibition featuring the work of five First Nations artists – is now open at the Manningham Art Gallery in Doncaster. 

The artists – Nellie Ngampa Coulthard, Brenda Napaltjarri, Clara Napurrula, Rene Sundown and Adrian Jurra Tjungurrayi – bring diverse practices and perspectives to reveal their unique depictions of the Australian landscape in their work.

The senior and emerging artists represent two Indigenous arts centres – Iwantja Arts in South Australia and Papunya Tula Artists in the Northern Territory.

The exhibition has been timed to coincide with National Reconciliation Week, which is held each year from 27 May to 3 June, with the 2025 theme Bridging Now to Next.

Aboriginal writer, artist, arts worker and Aboriginal affairs advocate from Cape York Peninsula Jack Wilki-Jans has described the 14 artworks featured in Painted Country as “hypnotic visions” of the artists’ Country.

“Visions of a wide country, a country of colour and texture, of sand dunes and salt lakes, scorched earth and radiant sunsets, of brushes and sweeping tufts of grasses with flowers – Australia!” Jack Wilki-Jans  said.

“It isn’t the hand that paints which this exhibition exalts, it’s the eyes which see.”

This celebration of First Nations contemporary painting is presented in collaboration with Alcaston Art Gallery, with special thanks to the artists, Iwantja Arts in South Australia and Papunya Tula Artists in the Northern Territory.

Gallery opening hours

Manningham Art Gallery, 687 Doncaster Road, Doncaster, is open Wednesday to Saturday, 11.00am to 4.00pm.

A new wave of youth leadership is making its mark as the 2025 Manningham Youth Advisory Committee (MYAC) steps forward to amplify young voices in local decision-making.

Together, these members will help shape our initiatives and contribute to meaningful, positive changes across our community.

Manningham Mayor, Councillor Deirdre Diamante welcomed the newly appointed committee members and reiterated Council’s commitment to elevating youth voices.

"Our young people are not just the leaders of tomorrow – they’re leaders today. This committee ensures their voices are heard and their ideas help shape a stronger, more inclusive community,” Cr Diamante said.

“Young people bring fresh perspectives and bold ideas. By giving them a platform, we’re helping build a community that reflects the hopes and needs of all generations,” she said.

Returning member Sienna Strangis shared their excitement about the new term. 

“Young people are just as diverse as the wider community, and it's essential that we’re represented in the decision-making process. Being at the table ensures our voices are heard on the issues that matter to us.”

The committee’s 2025 priorities are:

• youth safety and crime prevention
• transport and accessibility – enhancing public transport options, supporting young people without a driver’s license, and improving pedestrian and traffic safety
• recreation and public facilities – upgrading local recreation facilities, creating more inclusive community spaces, and increasing green and open areas
• community inclusion and engagement – encouraging volunteering, local opportunities for all youth, and responding to global challenges like climate change and displacement through local action
• housing and youth support services – advocating for more affordable housing and expanded youth support programs and financial assistance
• education and civic participation
• environmental sustainability.

In collaboration with Council and the broader community, MYAC members will play a key role in shaping local policies and programs, promoting positive change and empowering young people as confident and active leaders.

Now in its fourth year, MYAC has a renewed structure that better reflects the diversity of our local community. 

The 2025 committee is made up of:

• 9 public representatives aged between 15 to 25 who live, work or study in Manningham (including 3 returning members)
• 7 school representatives, each nominated by one of Manningham’s secondary schools, collectively representing nearly 9,000 students
• 4 youth service representatives, nominated by Manningham Youth Services (Each).

The committee remains a vital platform for young people to share their perspectives, develop leadership skills and gain experience that supports their personal, educational and professional growth.

We encourage all young people in Manningham to stay engaged and get involved.

We've received 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 currently seeking community input on our proposed upgrade of Larnoo Playground to improve facilities for the community. 

We have created a concept plan and are inviting community members to share their thoughts via Your Say Manningham by Friday 20 December 2024.

The proposed upgrade will include new play equipment, new park furniture, new shade sail, and new tree and garden bed planting.

This project is part of our Parks Improvement Program and will be delivered under our 2024/25 open space capital works program.

At the 27 May Manningham Council Meeting, the draft Council Plan, draft 2025-26 Budget, draft 10 year financial plan and the draft Revenue and Rating Plan were tabled. These have been developed in line with Manningham's newly endorsed Community Vision 2040 to help shape the future of Manningham.

These draft strategic documents are now available on the Your Say Manningham website and will be presented for endorsement at the 30 June Council Meeting.

The draft Asset Plan 2025-2035 and the Council Plan Action Plan will be made available at an upcoming Council meeting.

The strategic documents are informed by extensive community engagement conducted throughout 2024-25.  

At the heart of this work was the deliberative community panel – a collaborative effort that brought together 37 community members to play a crucial role in helping determine key priorities for Manningham.

Extensive community consultation informed both Council's strategic planning and the Community Panel’s deliberations, ensuring that the plans are grounded in the community's priorities, needs and aspirations.

This consultation included a community-wide survey last year, where 1,260 community members shared what matters most to them and which three areas they thought Council should focus on. Council also held a series of targeted conversations with key groups and residents including young people, older adults, multicultural communities and partners.

On top of that, many community members sent in their own ideas and suggestions through individual submissions, showing how Council services can improve to build a better future together.

These community insights provided Council with a strong and balanced view of the community's wants and needs. It directly shaped its strategic planning and the work of the Community Panel.

Given the depth and quality of feedback received during this process, a separate public submission process will not be held for this year’s strategic plans.

This approach is in line with Council's Community Engagement Policy as required by the Local Government Act.

Find out more by visiting the Your Say Manningham website.

Council has endorsed Manningham’s suite of key strategic documents, marking a decisive step toward building a vibrant and sustainable future. This includes its Council Plan 2025-2029 and 2025/26 Budget. 

Manningham Mayor, Councillor Deirdre Diamante said: “It’s essential that Council’s actions reflect what truly matters to the people who live here – what they value, what they want improved and what kind of future they envision for our neighbourhoods. 

“Endorsing these strategic documents is more than a procedural step. It’s a commitment to delivering real and lasting outcomes for our community.

“Together, they set a clear direction for the future – one that is community-led, inclusive and focused on delivering meaningful outcomes for everyone who calls Manningham home,” Cr Diamante said.

At its meeting on Monday 30 June, Council formally endorsed the following documents:

•  Council Plan 2025-2029 (including the Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan) and supporting Action Plan 
•  2025/26 Budget (an annual document)
• 10-Year Financial Plan 2025/26 to 2034/35
• Revenue and Rating Plan 2025/26 to 2028/29
• Asset Plan 2025–2035 and Asset Management Policy

The endorsed documents are the result of extensive community engagement. They have been shaped by the Manningham Community Panel’s recommendations, the Community Vision 2040, and feedback from the broader community, advisory bodies, partners, Councillors and Council officers.

“We’ve listened to our community’s concerns, priorities and aspirations for Manningham. From the rising cost of living, community safety, access to transport and open spaces, and protecting the unique character of our neighbourhoods as we grow – we understand what matters most to you.

“Together, we’ve created a roadmap that reflects our shared values and sets us on a path toward a healthier, more connected and resilient future,” Cr Diamante said.

At the heart of the Council Plan is a strong focus on building a healthier, more vibrant city. 

For the first time, Council has integrated its Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan into the Council Plan to ensure a unified approach to achieving the highest possible standard of public health and wellbeing, while meeting legislated obligations.

“We know that building a great city isn’t just about infrastructure and services. It’s about the health, happiness and resilience of our people. This integrated approach ensures that every decision we make supports the wellbeing of our community, now and into the future.

"Together, all these strategic documents lay the foundation for a stronger, more inclusive Manningham – one that reflects our community’s voice and is ready to meet the challenges and opportunities ahead," Cr Diamante said.

View Council’s full suite of strategic documents, including the Council Plan 2025-2029, 2025/26 Budget.
 

Council has endorsed Manningham’s suite of key strategic documents, marking a decisive step toward building a vibrant and sustainable future. These include our Council Plan 2025-2029 and 2025/26 Budget. 

Our Mayor, Councillor Deirdre Diamante, said: “It’s essential that Council’s actions reflect what truly matters to the people who live here – what they value, what they want improved and what kind of future they envision for our neighbourhoods. 

“Endorsing these strategic documents is more than a procedural step. It’s a commitment to delivering real and lasting outcomes for our community.

“Together, they set a clear direction for the future – one that is community-led, inclusive and focused on delivering meaningful outcomes for everyone who calls Manningham home,” Cr Diamante said.

At its meeting on Monday 30 June, Council formally endorsed the following documents:

• Council Plan 2025-2029 (including the Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan) and supporting Action Plan 
•  2025/26 Budget (an annual document)
• 10-Year Financial Plan 2025/26 to 2034/35
• Revenue and Rating Plan 2025/26 to 2028/29
• Asset Plan 2025–2035 and Asset Management Policy

The endorsed documents are the result of extensive community engagement. They have been shaped by the Manningham Community Panel’s recommendations, the Community Vision 2040, and feedback from the broader community, advisory bodies, partners, Councillors and Council officers.

“We’ve listened to our community’s concerns, priorities and aspirations for Manningham. From the rising cost of living, community safety, access to transport and open spaces, and protecting the unique character of our neighbourhoods as we grow – we understand what matters most to you.

“Together, we’ve created a roadmap that reflects our shared values and sets us on a path toward a healthier, more connected and resilient future,” Cr Diamante said.

At the heart of the Council Plan is a strong focus on building a healthier, more vibrant city. 

For the first time, we've integrated our Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan into the Council Plan to ensure a unified approach to achieving the highest possible standard of public health and wellbeing, while meeting legislated obligations.

“We know that building a great city isn’t just about infrastructure and services. It’s about the health, happiness and resilience of our people. This integrated approach ensures that every decision we make supports the wellbeing of our community, now and into the future.

"Together, all these strategic documents lay the foundation for a stronger, more inclusive Manningham – one that reflects our community’s voice and is ready to meet the challenges and opportunities ahead," Cr Diamante said.

View our full suite of strategic documents, including the Council Plan 2025-2029, 2025/26 Budget.
 

At the 27 May Council Meeting the draft Council Plan, draft 2025-26 Budget, draft 10 year financial plan and the draft Revenue and Rating Plan were tabled.  These have been developed in line with our newly endorsed Community Vision 2040 to help shape the future of Manningham.

These draft strategic documents are now available on Your Say Manningham website and will be presented for endorsement at the 30 June Council Meeting.

Our draft Asset Plan 2025-2035 and the Council Plan Action Plan will be made available at an upcoming Council meeting.

Our strategic documents are informed by extensive community engagement conducted throughout 2024-25.  

Many people have helped shape our community’s future. We’ve been planning for the next four years, and we’ve done it by listening closely to our community.

At the heart of this work was the deliberative community panel – a collaborative effort that brought together 37 community members to play a crucial role in helping determine key priorities for Manningham.

Extensive community consultation informed both our strategic planning and the Community Panel’s deliberations, ensuring that our plans are grounded in our community's priorities, needs and aspirations.

This consultation included a community-wide survey last year where we heard from 1,260 community members about what matters most to you and which three areas you think Council should focus on. We also held a series of targeted conversations with key groups and residents including young people, older adults, multicultural communities and partners.

On top of that, many community members sent in their own ideas and suggestions through individual submissions, showing us how Council services can improve and how we can build a better future together.

These community insights gave us a strong and balanced view of our community's wants and needs. It directly shaped our strategic planning and the work of our Community Panel.

Given the depth and quality of feedback received during this process, a separate public submission process will not be held for this year’s strategic plans.

We thank everyone who contributed. We’re all part of the plan and your voices are shaping the future of our community.

Find out more by visiting our Your Say Manningham website.

Following the Council elections in October, we are pleased to announce your new Councillors.

The elected Councillors will represent Manningham through to 2028, across our nine wards.

Your Councillors are:

• Cr Geoff Gough – Bolin Ward
• Cr Andrew Conlon – Currawong Ward
• Cr Peter Bain – Manna Ward
• Cr Jim Grivas – Ruffey Ward
• Cr Laura Mayne – Schramm Ward
• Cr Deirdre Diamante – Tullamore Ward
• Cr Anna Chen – Waldau Ward 
• Cr Isabella Eltaha – Westerfolds Ward
• Cr Carli Lange – Yarra Ward

There are six Councillors returning from the previous Council term and three new Councillors.

Returning councillors include Cr Geoff Gough, Cr Andrew Conlon, Cr Laura Mayne, Cr Deirdre Diamante, Cr Anna Chen and Cr Carli Lange. New Councillors are Cr Peter Bain, Cr Isabella Eltaha and Cr Jim Grivas (who also served as a Councillor from 2012 to 2016).

The Councillors have been officially sworn in this week and will come together at the Annual Meeting of Council on Tuesday 19 November.

The Mayor and Deputy Mayor for the year ahead will be elected by your Councillors at the annual meeting.

Active Manningham and Manningham Council are bringing Pride Night at Aquarena back for 2025. This free event will bring together our LGBTQIA+ community and their families, friends and allies.

Pride Night 2025 will be held Sunday 2 February 2025 from 5.00pm to 8.00pm at Aquarena Aquatic and Leisure Centre on Williamsons Road in Templestowe Lower.

Guests can expect fun, fitness, and connection with performances by Holly Pop and Xena Ghost, music provided by DJ Literally, Zumba classes and water aerobics, and a free barbecue.

Manningham Mayor, Councillor Deirdre Diamante said Council is committed to ensuring there are opportunities for everyone to be included in community life. 

“Pride Night is a celebration of diversity, joy, and connection, and we’re thrilled to invite everyone to come along and join the fun.”
 

“Diversity is at the heart of what makes Manningham such a vibrant and connected community, these events strengthen our understanding, and reminds us that inclusion makes us all stronger,” Cr Diamante said.

Manningham Youth Service support worker Leo went along in 2024 and shared their thoughts on the value of inclusive community events. 

"Events like this are an important way for community organisations like Aquarena to invite in the LGBTQIA+ community in and show them that it is a safe space to exist and that the service is for them as well as everyone else."

Come along to Aquarena and celebrate Pride Night in February.

You can find out more and register for the event on the Manningham Council website.

Manningham Council has launched an exciting new program to boost the local live music scene.

Live and Local is designed to celebrate, develop and support our local musicians, bands and businesses.

This free program offers professional development workshops as well as performance and networking opportunities, providing valuable resources and support to musicians, venues and music lovers within the Manningham community.

Manningham Mayor, Cr Deirdre Diamante, said Council wanted to support and grow the grassroots live music scene.

“We have so many talented musicians, and music industry professionals in our local area. We want to support our local industry so our community can enjoy live music close to home,” Cr Diamante said.

“This in turn will boost small businesses, bringing more patrons to local venues and activity centres.” 

To launch the program, Council is seeking expressions of interest from musicians and local venues and businesses to get involved.

Musicians will have the chance to showcase their talents and get paid, while connecting with other local industry professionals. This opportunity will build their experience and contribute to the growth of the local live music scene.

Businesses don’t need to be a traditional live music venue to take part. All is required is a space for small-scale performances. Examples include retail spaces, cafes and galleries, as well as hotels, restaurants and bars.

Expressions of Interest to be part of the program close on Sunday 1 June at 11.59pm. 

Live and Local is presented by Manningham Council in partnership with the Live Music Office, One Music Australia and APRA AMCOS (the Australasian Performing Rights Association and Australasian Mechanical Copyright Owners Society). This project has been assisted by the Australian Government through Music Australia.

Find out more and get involved at our Live and Local program page.

Image: Musician Alex Robertson from Cleo Black.

Manningham Council is seeking community feedback on a concept design for an upgrade at Wombat Bend Playground. 

Wombat Bend Playground is a much-loved regional playground catering to visitors of all abilities – created by the community, for the community. It embraces inclusive design to foster creative development, inspiration and imagination and to encourage the mind to explore.

The concept design developed for the playground upgrade reflects insights gathered from community consultations held in December 2024. The proposed upgrades include:

• a diverse range of play equipment suitable for all ages and abilities
• a dedicated swing zone with five different seat types
• a larger water play area
• a sand play zone with raised tables and a digger
• a refurbished maze zone
• improved access paths for better connectivity and movement
• upgraded amenities, including new seating, picnic areas, drinking fountains, shelters, and BBQs
• enhanced shade and expanded grassed areas
• a new co-located fitness station.

Community consultation now open

To have your say on the Wombat Bend Playground concept design, visit yoursay.manningham.vic.gov.au/wombat-bend-playground-upgrade.

Council is also holding an onsite consultation session on Sunday 18 May.

Community members are invited to attend between 10:30am and 12:00pm (noon) to discuss the design directly with the project team.

Council values the input of the community in shaping the future of the Wombat Bend Playground and appreciates everyone’s involvement in making the playground a better space for all.

Consultation closes Monday 2 June 2025.

For more information, visit yoursay.manningham.vic.gov.au/wombat-bend-playground-upgrade