With a vibrant food and art culture with a touch of history, Manningham is a special place to be. Retaining many of its cultural links, there’s something for everyone in Manningham: from sacred sites of the area’s First Peoples to the early gold mining settlements.
Local government
Local government in the area dates back to the election of the Templestowe District Roads Board in 1856. The first meeting of the Board was at Upper Yarra Hotel, Templestowe.
Proclamation that the Shire of Doncaster and Templestowe took place on 28 February 1967. Up until 15 December 1994, Doncaster and Templestowe Council administered the area until the creation of the City of Manningham. The new city included Doncaster, Templestowe and small sections of the Shire of Lilydale. Wonga Park and part of north Ringwood also became part of Manningham. Three State Government appointed commissioners managed the city until 24 march 1997 when 8 councillors were sworn into office.
Our First Nations heritage
You can see the rich cultural heritage of the area through local landmarks and places of significance. First Peoples have been in Victoria for over 30,000 years and we can still see evidence of the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung presence in Manningham.
The European influence (mid 1800s)
From the mid-1800s, European settlement began in Manningham with the earliest building constructed in the 1840s. We still have plenty of places of heritage significance where visitors and locals can explore and admire.
Our suburbs
Each suburb in Manningham has its own unique characteristics and are wonderful places to live and visit.
Protecting our environment and biodiversity is a shared responsibility. We are actively working to preserve and enhance our city’s natural resources to ensure they will survive and thrive for generations to come.
Land management grants
These grants are designed to help property owners to care for their land, including tree planting, weed removal and pest animal control.
We also do this by supporting a response to climate and energy sustainability issues, improving how we accommodate and integrate our natural environment alongside our built environment, using environmental best practice in the care and maintenance of our open spaces, and through a range of environmental initiatives, resident support programs and community stewardship.
We encourage our residents to protect and nurture the local environment.
Residents can get involved in a variety of ways including using composting systems to reduce waste, joining your local Landcare group, controlling weeds and pests and attending nature walks and seminars throughout Manningham.
See the links below to find practical ways you can be part of a sustainable solution to preserve the beauty of Manningham for many generations to come.
Manningham is a vibrant and diverse community with people of all cultures and backgrounds. We have a proud history of a multicultural community living, working and celebrating together.
Here you will find more information on what makes Manningham a multicultural community and how you can get involved.
Diversity and Social Inclusion
Diversity and social inclusion is important to us. We consider the human rights, values and needs of our diverse communities.
Migrant and Refugee Welcome Zone
We are proud to declare our commitment to welcoming refugees and migrants into the community. We celebrate the opportunity to enhance the cultural and religious diversity of our community.
Community Learning Centres
Community learning centres encourages members of the community to participate in local activities, learning and education. They play an important part in strengthening local communities and we support such centres by providing funding and facilities.
Welcoming Cities
As part of the Welcoming Cities initiative, we want to build an Australia that is welcoming and inclusive to everyone. By building benchmarks for cultural diversity and inclusion, we are taking steps to being more welcoming to everyone in the community.
Australian Citizenship Ceremonies
Becoming an Australian citizen represents a commitment to Australia and its people. Applicants for Australian Citizenship Ceremonies will generally receive an invite to attend within three to six months from the date of their application approval. You will receive a written invitation to your ceremony from the Department of Home Affairs.
Get information in your language
We have interpreter services in multiple languages. Choose the way you want to communicate with us.
Want to stay up to date with inclusive activities and opportunities?
Our bi-monthly Community Strengthening e-newsletter aims to build resilient and vibrant communities by keeping you informed about programs, services, council projects, opportunities and important news for local community groups and organisations.
Do you need to receive the e-newsletter in another format? Contact us on 9840 9333 or email spcs@manningham.vic.gov.au.
English language classes
We have several English language classes locally where you can learn and practice your English skills. You can get classes at:
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Adult Multicultural Education Service (AMES) in Box Hill
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Blackburn English Language School in Blackburn
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Doncaster Library at MC Square in Doncaster
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Manningham U3A in Doncaster East
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Manningham Uniting Church in Doncaster East
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Pines Learning Centre in Doncaster East
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Living and Learning at Ajani in Templestowe Lower
Manningham Concert Band is presenting our 2023 Gala Concert, in our 49th year, and it is truly out of this world.
Our Gala theme this year is Beyond Our Earth - because who really knows how many other Earth's exist?
No space themed concert would be complete without contributions from the absolute masters, Gustav Holst and John Williams.
Also featured will be other well-known composers that you may not realise composed 'space' music, including:
- Richard Rodgers
- Johann Strauss
- John Philip Sousa
Parking and transport
On-street parking is available. Limited off-street parking is available.
If arriving by bus, take the 902 and get off at the Doncaster Rd/Church Rd stop. From there it is a short two minute walk to the venue.
Our Annual Report provides an overview of how we are tracking against key performance measures and provides transparency across key areas of Council business
Quarterly Report
The Manningham Quarterly Report provides a progress update towards achievement of our Council Plan 2021-2025 as well as financial, capital works, Councillor and CEO expenses and CEO Performance Indicators. In 2024 new sections have been added on customer service and the environment.
2023/24
2020/21
2019/20
2018/19
Annual Report
Our Annual Report provides a detailed account of Council’s service performance across the year.
Local Government Performance Reporting Framework (LGPRF)
LGPRF was introduced by the Victorian Government to assist the community to see and compare Council’s performance in areas of interest such as public safety (animals, foods and pools), services (statutory planning, maternal child health, libraries, roads and rubbish), council business (governance, community engagement and financial efficiency).
All results are reported annually to the Minister for Local Government and published on the Local Government Victoria website.
Water is one of our most precious resources. Together with our partners and community, we are developing long-term sustainable solutions to manage water supply and protect our waterways.
Sustainably managing our water supply and improving waterway health is vital to support the ecology of our landscapes to thrive in the face of a changing climate, remove pollution from stormwater flows and benefit the health and wellbeing of our community.
The challenges posed by climate change require a collaborative and integrated approach by Council and the community to develop long-term sustainable solutions to managing water supply and protecting our waterways.
The Yarra Strategic Plan
The Yarra Strategic Plan, Burndap Birrrarung Burndap Umarkoo — which means “what is good for the Yarra is good for all” in the Woi-wurrung language.
The 10-year plan for the Yarra River corridor is a landmark plan that seeks to manage and protect the Yarra River and its parklands as one living and integrated natural entity, and the first to be developed in partnership with Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung.
Subscribe to our Environment Newsletter
Keep up to date with our latest environment and sustainability events.
Water is one of our most precious resources. Sustainably managing our water supply and improving waterway health is vital to support the ecology of our landscapes to thrive in the face of a changing climate, remove pollution from stormwater flows and benefit the health and wellbeing of our community.
Our city is recognised as a leader in local water management and together with our partners and community is continuing to develop new and improved sustainable solutions that integrate water conservation, pollution removal and the protection of our waterways, in-stream habitats and aquatic ecosystems.
Our achievements so far
- Converted grasses on our sports field to drought tolerant grasses reducing watering frequency from seven to two days a week in summer.
- Installed rain gardens at MC Square to remove pollution and nutrients from stormwater that ends up in our creeks and rivers.
- Saved thousands of litres of water wastage through live monitoring of irrigation systems at our sporting grounds and facilities.
- Constructed five stormwater capture and reuse systems with a capacity of over one million litres of water to reduce reliance on mains tap water for irrigation.
- Harvested tank water from our depot and reserves to water trees in our open spaces, parks and reserves.
- Replaced mains water with harvested rainwater for toilets at MC Square in Doncaster and at the Council Depot.
Turning our water sustainability goals into action
What we are doing
- Supporting Waterwatch, a community science program monitoring the health of over 29 waterways and their impact on stream ecology. The results are used to help guide future water management actions and sustainability initiatives.
- Ongoing auditing and upgrading of irrigation systems across the city for better monitoring of water usage and faster issue identification and resolution resulting in improved water efficiency and reduced wastage.
- Improving our understanding of local waterway health through waterway monitoring and research.
- Investigating new ways to harvest water through water sensitive urban design at our shopping centres and car parks.
- Undertaking oval drainage projects to improve drainage capabilities and water retention reducing the need for watering throughout the Spring/Summer months.
- Supporting Community volunteers in collaboration with local Landcare and environmental friends groups with their waterway rehabilitation programs via the Middle Yarra Landcare Network.
- Exploring new and innovative ways to retain moisture in landscapes and reduce stormwater run-off and pollution into our waterways.
- Developing opportunities to facilitate the harvesting of storm water from roads and infrastructure developments for private land holder access.
- Assisting with monitoring extreme climate risks including flood events, reduction in biodiversity, drought, and other ecological pressures on our waterways and aquatic ecosystems.
- Advocating for integrated water management, utilizing stormwater harvesting for domestic use and offsetting potable usage and sewerage connection.
- Offering a Spring Outdoors program which includes a range of events, workshops and activities such as the WaterBug blitz, and webinars on Waterway health.
The Waterwatch Program
Waterwatch is a citizen science program for monitoring waterway health. In Manningham, Waterwatch has been connecting local communities with waterway health and sustainable water issues since 1993.
In 2007 a group of concerned volunteers initiated the Manningham Waterwatch Monitoring Network. This group continues to monitor the health of our local waterways and has carried out over 10,000 water quality measurements at more than 40 sites across the municipality. The data collected is used to assess the health of Manningham's waterways and identify what is currently impacting stream ecology.
In addition to water quality monitoring, many volunteers are affiliated with local action groups including Landcare and ‘friends of’ groups which undertake stream rehabilitation programs that contribute to catchment and waterway health.
Volunteer to be a citizen scientist
Citizen scientists are people who want to make a difference to the environment and their community. You can join this movement by taking part in programs like Waterwatch, you can email to let us know you're interested at manningham@manningham.vic.gov.au
Subscribe to our Environment Newsletter
Keep up to date with our latest environment and sustainability events.
Manningham has a rich cultural heritage with many significant:
- buildings
- precincts
- trees
- landscapes
- gold mining
- archaeological significant sites.
These heritage places reflect the different phases of Manningham’s development from First Nations to European settlement.
Historical societies
Manningham is home to two historical societies.
- The Doncaster and Templestowe Historical Society was formed in 1967 and maintains Schramm's Cottage in Doncaster.
- The Warrandyte Historical Society was formed in 1976 and maintains the Old Post Office Museum in Warrandyte.
Useful historical resources
You can search and discover where our heritage places are by visiting the following pages:
- Heritage Victoria Search for your or any property on the Victorian heritage register.
- Manningham heritage database
- Whitehorse Manningham local history database.
The Whitehorse Manningham local history database is a useful resource for people searching for information about the history of the region. You can now search through four local history databases from the catalogue page of the library website.
- (Whitehorse Manningham) heritage network
- cemetery database
- diggers database
- petition database
Historical attractions are classified under the following themes:
- Shaping Manningham’s Environment
- Peopling Manningham’s Places and Landscapes
- Transforming and Managing the Land
- Building Community Life
- Cultural and Creative Life.
Use the Manningham Heritage Map to find local historical attractions separated by theme.
Explore Manningham by foot
Residents and visitors can explore and experience the rich history and environment of the area by taking our guided walking trails. These are self-guided walks where you can access information on distance, time, degree of difficulty and accessibility.
Historical attractions
Our historical attractions include:
Historical walking trails
Our historical walks include:
Walk, Talk and Coffee - Westerfolds park to Templestowe Village Walk
Building the Warrandyte Style - Historic Warrandyte Architectural Walk
A Clearing in the Forest - Waldau Village Historic Walk
Built on Gold - Warrandyte Historic Town Talk
Wine Time Heritage Wander - Historic Wonga Park Walk
Relaxing Riverside Ramble - Warrandyte Riverside Walk
Car Race Hill - The Templestowe Hill Climb Walk.
Self-guided tour
Manningham Modern - a self-guided tour of mid-20th century modern homes in Manningham.
As our city grows, so does the amount of waste we create.
We are committed to reducing the impact our waste management has on our environment and are continually seeking better, smarter and more sustainable ways of reducing waste, increasing resource recovery and increasing diversion from landfill.
The way we manage waste is a shared responsibility, so we are also raising awareness and actively working with our community to create more sustainable future behaviours in how we use, reuse and dispose of materials once we are done with them.
Our achievements so far
- 56 per cent of material (25,000 tonnes) diverted away from landfill.
- 18 tonnes e-waste safely collected via our waste drop-off day program.
- 12 tonnes of hazardous chemicals safely collected via our detox your home initiative.
- 6 tonnes of chemical waste safely collected via our waste drop-off day program.
- 1,788 composting products sold through the Compost Revolution program.
- Community awareness and education programs dedicated to waste reduction/reuse and recycling - resulting in low bin contamination of 7 per cent.
Turning our sustainability goals into actions
Collaborating with the Metropolitan Waste and Resource Recovery Group and other councils on the delivery of waste services for landfill, recycling, garden waste and advanced waste processing systems.
Actively seeking and investigating new sustainable and innovative environmental practices for waste management, recycling and advanced waste processing to increase future recovery of resources that would otherwise be destined for landfill.
Exploring the provision of Food Organics Green Organics (FOGO) waste collection services (42 per cent of garbage in bins currently consist of food organics) to further divert waste from landfill.
Planning for the introduction of the container deposit scheme and the potential addition of a fourth bin for glass recycling.
Building awareness and directly engaging with our community — residents, schools and businesses through a variety of education programs and events around waste reduction, good recycling, composting and diverting garden and food waste away from landfill.
Continuing to work with our community in supporting good recycling behaviours by providing versatile collection and drop off services.
Supporting community and school efforts in litter collection for Clean-Up Australia Day.
Fostering partnerships with organisations to encourage, educate and equip our community to reduce waste sent to landfill — Compost Community an award winning social enterprise created to help households start composting and worm farming.
What we are doing
- Lead to Sustain Conference: offering young people in our community the opportunity to learn how to become more sustainable in their choices and to lead by adopting more sustainable actions for the future benefit of our local community – includes activities dedicated to reducing waste, recycling, saving water, reducing energy consumption, supporting biodiversity and ecology
- Resource Smart Schools Program: assisting schools to embed sustainability into everything they do including ways to minimise waste, save energy and water, promote biodiversity and take action on climate change to benefit their school and community.
- Manningham Schools Environmental Education Program and the Doncaster Hill Community Garden School Holiday Program: includes activities dedicated to recycling and worm farming.
- Manningham’s Backyard Biodiversity: Litter Impacts a wildlife video series produced in collaboration with Wild Action Zoo - highlights the impact of discarded litter on our local wildlife and natural environment.
- Smarter Living Program: a webinar series in collaboration with Whitehorse Council - dedicated to managing household waste and living more sustainably.
- Eastern Alliance for Sustainable Learning (EASL): offering a range of learning programs and events such as the annual Learning for Sustainability Conference — in collaboration with 5 member councils across the Eastern region.
Reduce, reuse, recycle, and recover
Subscribe to our Environment Newsletter
Keep up to date with our latest environment and sustainability events.
Manningham Demographics
The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) Census data from 2021 is now available for use by our community, local service providers, community groups and anyone else interested in effectively planning for the future.
For a snapshot of the latest statistics and demographic population data, use the .id toolkit, including:
- Community Profile: Population facts and characteristics with comparisons over time and with other areas.
- Population Forecast: Outlines the factors driving population change in the community and how the population, age structure and household types will change each year.
- Social Atlas: Maps that show how particular population groups are distributed across the municipality.
The Manningham Community Profile provides demographic analysis for Manningham and its suburbs based on results from the 2021, 2016, 2011, 2006, 2001, 1996 and 1991 Censuses of Population and Housing.
The Manningham population and household forecasts highlight the factors driving population change in the community and how the population, age structure, and household types will change each year between 2021 and 2036.
These forecasts were updated in December 2022 by .id, the population experts, on behalf of Manningham Council.
Demographic information for Manningham
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For economy, jobs and business data, use REMPLAN. REMPLAN provides information on local employment, workers, industries and tourism in Manningham.
Download the demographic fact sheets below to find out more information about the Manningham population, including:
Source: .id Community Profile, Australian Bureau of Statistics |
State of the City and Health Needs Analysis 2020 report
The State of the City and Health Needs Analysis 2020 is a research report that provides an overview of Manningham’s health, wellbeing, environment and economy.
Based on data from more than 60 sources, the report presents a picture of Manningham before the COVID-19 pandemic. The report provides an eight to 10 year view of how Manningham has changed since the last State of the City report was published in 2013 and is a baseline from which to measure the impact of the pandemic on our community.
The data sets analysed in the State of the City and Health Needs Analysis 2020 were used to assess Manningham against the health priority areas contained in the Victorian Public Health and Wellbeing Plan (VPHWP) 2019-2023. This health needs analysis has been undertaken to help inform the development of our Health and Wellbeing Strategy 2021-2025, which is Council’s Municipal Health and Wellbeing Plan. The following data fact sheets were produced on the six VPHWP health priority areas that are most relevant to Manningham.
That's a wrap! Thank you to everyone to joined us for Manningham’s most anticipated event of the year!
On Friday 8 September our community came together with Mayor Cr Deirdre Diamante to be a part of this glamorous night.
Partnering with MannaCare, the Mayoral Charity Gala has raised awareness and funds for initiatives to support those in our community touched by dementia.
We're still taking donations!
Our partner MannaCare are still taking direct donations.
All proceeds will go to creating a dementia-focused initiative in Manningham.
Donate directly to our partner, MannaCare.
Thank you to our wonderful partner and sponsors!
- MannaCare - Gala partner
- Noel Jones Doncaster - Gold sponsor
- Rose Phoenix Health - Bronze sponsor
Need help?
If you have any questions about donating directly, please contact our events team on 9840 9333 or at events@manningham.vic.gov.au
Congratulations on choosing Manningham as your new home.
Manningham prides itself on providing high quality services and a range of lifestyle needs for residents of all ages.
Manningham is located just a short distance from the Melbourne CBD yet you can enjoy a sense of being 'out of the city' thanks to our abundance of green open spaces, scenic outlooks to the ranges, and tranquil walks along our waterways.
It is this unique balance of city and country that makes Manningham such a special place to live.
Welcome to Manningham
We are proud to deliver over 100 different services to our vibrant and diverse community. Here are a few to get you started.
Discover our area, history, and demographics
There’s something for everyone in Manningham. From sacred sites of the area’s First Peoples to the early gold mining settlements, the local area has a bit of everything for you to appreciate and enjoy.
Discover your neighbourhood using our maps
Use our maps to search Manningham, property addresses, wards, healthcare centres and other places of interest.
Find local places and spaces
Explore our local arts, crafts, fashion, food and drink and other recreational activities.
Preparing for emergencies
We are at risk of bushfires, flood and storms and work closely with authorities to plan for and be prepared in an emergency. Keep you and your family safe by being prepared and understanding your risks.
Sign up to Manningham Matters
Stay in touch with everything that is happening at Council and around our community by subscribing to our monthly eNewsletter. Receive the latest news about our essential services, programs, projects and activities, straight to your inbox.
Need help?
Manningham has one of the largest networks of open space in metropolitan Melbourne covering approximately 17 per cent of the municipality and including more than 300 parks.
This includes recreation parks, sporting reserves, natural areas and neighbourhood parks.
Our unique natural environment provides a sanctuary to 56 threatened animal species and is home to 22 per cent of Victoria’s known plants, including 11 species of state significance and four species of national significance.
A large section of the eastern half of Manningham is designated as a ‘Green Wedge’ area for the protection of our natural and rural environment.
Responding to climate change
As an environmentally forward thinking Council, we believe the decisions we make today have the potential to change the future for generations to come.
Protecting our environment
Protecting our environment and biodiversity is a shared responsibility. Together with the support of our partners and community, we are actively working to preserve and enhance our city’s natural resources to ensure they will survive and thrive for generations to come.
Land management grants
Each year we offer a series of land management grants. These grants are designed to help property owners with tree planting, weed removal and pest animal control. Find out if you're eligible to apply.
The Green Wedge
A large section of the eastern half of Manningham is designated as a ‘Green Wedge’ area for the protection of our natural and rural environment. Learn about the area and what we're doing to protect it.
Tree management
We plant new trees within Manningham as part of our tree planting program. We also maintain trees in residential areas, parks, and reserves. Find out about our Tree Management Plan and how to request an additional street tree for planting.
Guides
These awards recognise residents who’ve made exceptional contributions to the Manningham community through volunteer, unpaid or paid work.
Key dates for Civic Award nominations and announcements
- Nominations open - Wednesday 22 May 2024
- Nominations close - Monday 22 July 2024
- Winners announced - Thursday 22 August 2024
Take a look at our 2024 winners
Meet this year's Manningham Civic Award winners.
Nominations
Find out how to nominate and how winners are selected.
Anyone can nominate for the Manningham Civic Awards.
To nominate someone for a Civic Award, complete the online nomination form . You can also pick up a hardcopy form from the Manningham Civic Centre.
Nominations must include:
- background about the nominee
- the reason for the nomination including how this person has contributed to the community and how the community benefited from these contributions
- the achievements of the nominee including a list of awards and acknowledgements
Attach copies of any photos, newspaper articles or documents that support your nominee’s contributions and achievements.
Provide at least one referee to support your nomination.
Each year, Manningham Council selects a judging panel to assess nominations and choose a recipient. The panel consists of three independent people, the Mayor and the Manager of the Grants and Events team.
Nominations for this year's Civic Awards open on Wednesday 22 May and close on Monday 22 July 2024.
Eligibility Criteria
Find out who can be nominated and what is required of the winners.
- Nominees must reside in Manningham.
- Self-nominations will not be accepted, except for community groups.
- Manningham Councillors, Manningham Council employees, State and Federal politicians are not eligible but are encouraged to nominate others.
- Award winners should be willing to share their achievements in the 12 months after winning, promote civic values and to reflect positively on the principles of the Manningham Civic Awards. This may include but is not limited to public speaking, promotional campaigns and having photos taken and displayed.
- The decision of the judging panel is final and no correspondence will be entered into in respect of the decision.
The Citizen of the Year Award is about recognising a Manningham resident who has made an outstanding contribution to improve the lives of our local community.
The Citizen of the Year should demonstrate a least five years of achievement in any field, including:
- community service
- community innovation
- philanthropy
- volunteer work
If you’d like to nominate someone as Citizen of the Year through an achievement made in a paid role, then please show us how your nominee has contributed to our community in addition to their paid duties.
Eligibility criteria
In addition to the general eligibility criteria above:
- Nominees must be over 25 years of age on 20 May 2024.
Selection criteria
The nomination must demonstrate that the nominee has:
- contributed to the community for a significant length of time – at least five years
- made a meaningful contribution to the community - above and beyond paid employment duties (if employed)
- been an inspirational role model within our community
- impacted our community widely through their contribution
- faced challenges and has shown the ability to go above and beyond.
The Young Citizen of the Year Award is about recognising a young Manningham resident who has made an outstanding contribution to improve the lives of our local community.
The Young Citizen of the Year should have demonstrated leadership qualities and have inspired others through their actions or by being a positive role model. The contribution can be made in any field, including:
- community service
- community innovation
- philanthropy
- volunteer work
If you’d like to nominate someone as The Young Citizen of the Year through an achievement made in a paid role, then please show us how your nominee has contributed to our community in addition to their paid duties.
Eligibility criteria
In addition to the general eligibility criteria above:
- Nominees must be under 25 years of age on 20 May 2024.
The Doreen Stoves Volunteer of the Year Award is about recognising a contribution made by a volunteer in the local community. This award honors Doreen Stoves for her inspirational work. Doreen worked for many years at Doncare and dedicated her life to helping others.
It highlights the contribution that is made by volunteers and those who often work behind the scenes to build a stronger and more caring community. The Doreen Stoves Volunteer of the Year award can be made in any field, including:
- community service
- civic engagement
- environment
- sport
- the arts
- education
- business
- advocacy
If you’d like to nominate someone for an achievement made through a paid role, please demonstrate how they’ve contributed to our community in addition to their paid duties.
The Community Organisation of the Year Award recognises community organisations, clubs or groups who have gone ‘above and beyond’ to improve the lives of the Manningham community. It can also recognise a specific project undertaken in the last 12 months that displays a positive impact to Manningham.
Nominees must be not-for-profit community organisations who’ve made a tangible difference to either:
- diversity
- acceptance and tolerance
- community spirit
- social connectedness in Manningham
Eligibility criteria
In addition to the general eligibility criteria above:
- Self-nominations by community groups are acceptable in this category.
The Sports Volunteer of the Year Award is about recognising a Manningham resident who has made an outstanding contribution by volunteering in our community.
This award recognises the contribution made by those who often work behind the scenes to build a stronger and more caring community. This award is specifically for those who volunteer to support sporting groups and clubs within our community.
If you’d like to nominate someone as Sports Volunteer of the Year through an achievement made in a paid role, then please show us how your nominee has contributed to the Manningham community.
Visit our local shopping centres or markets for a little bit of retail therapy and to explore our local arts, crafts, fashion and food.
Our shopping centres
We have a range of local shopping experiences close to home that suit a variety of budgets and needs. From dog grooming to enjoying a tasty lunch, our friendly traders provide excellent service and are happy to help. Discover some of our great shopping locations today.
Your local business is critical to our vibrant and thriving economy. Find permits, guides, news and other resources for starting a new business, running existing businesses, or growing your business.
For your business
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Starting a new business is both exciting and challenging. Find permits, guides, news and other resources for starting a business.
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Running a business from home can be a perfect way to balance family commitments. Or you might be starting out and wanting to minimise overheads. We have resources available to help your home based business.
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Find out if you need a footpath trading permit when placing tables and chairs, displays and signs on our footpaths.
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Find out which permits and registration you will need to set up a hairdressing, beauty salon, day spa, make-up business or gym.
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Find out what the mandatory requirements are for setting up a food business, whether it's a café or homemade preserves.
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Find out if you need a permit for your business. This includes new and existing businesses and those looking to expand.
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Find out what the regulations are for operating an accommodation business in Manningham, including hotels and bed and breakfasts.
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We've compiled a list of useful websites and tools to help guide you through the essential steps of setting up and running your small business.
Our strategy
Our Economic Development Strategy (EDS) is a six-year plan to support businesses and employment in Manningham.
Find Your Local
Find Your Local helps our community discover and explore the many unique products, services, food experiences and outdoor adventures that are all here in Manningham.
Follow us on Instagram @findyourlocalmanningham and send us details of your business so we can feature you on our page!
How can we help?
The Economic Development team is here to support you setting up and growing your business. We are your point of contact for business enquiries and support, permit information, workshops and events.
Contact us at business@manningham.vic.gov.au or on 9840 9333.
Stay in the loop
Subscribe to our monthly eNews to receive the latest business news, tips, upcoming events and networking opportunities.
Follow our Manningham Business Facebook page.
Get the latest from Manningham Business
The Manningham Business E-News is distributed monthly. It is a great way to stay up to date with local business news and to see what events are happening in Manningham.
Subscribe to our monthly E-News
Manningham Council acknowledges the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung people as the Traditional Owners of the land and waterways now known as Manningham.
Council pays respect to Elders past, present and emerging, and values the ongoing contribution to enrich and appreciate the cultural heritage of Manningham.
Council acknowledges and respects Australia’s First Peoples as Traditional Owners of lands and waterways across Country, and encourages reconciliation between all.
Manningham Council values the contribution made to Manningham over the years by people of diverse backgrounds and cultures.
The following information has been written in consultation with the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation.
The role of local government in Reconciliation
Local Government plays a key role in activating Reconciliation within local communities by:
- playing a leadership role in creating meaningful relationships
- recognising and supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander self-determination and cultural rights
- building understanding of our shared history
- celebrating, recognising and respecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural heritages
- providing our local community and the education sector with an opportunity to take an active part in the process of Reconciliation
- offering public programs, projects and events
- providing accessible services; and
- being a proactive employer and procurer of services.
Council articulates how this can be achieved through a Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP).
Manningham Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP)
The Manningham Innovate RAP 2023-25 has been developed in partnership with Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Corporation, local First Nations peoples, local residents, Reconciliation Action Plan Working Group and Reconciliation Australia.
Council is committed to fostering respect for and understanding of First Nations cultures, histories, knowledge and rights throughout our organisation and the municipality.
The Reconciliation Action Plan Working Group will monitor the implementation of the RAP along with Reconciliation Australia.
In 2019, Council established regular Cultural Consultations with Elders and staff of the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation (the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Corporation).
As the Registered Aboriginal Party for Manningham, the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Corporation plays a key role in decision making for and protection of cultural heritage and as such are recognised as the primary guardians, keepers and knowledge holders of Aboriginal Cultural Heritage.
The regular Cultural Consultations with Elders provide Council with an opportunity to ensure our projects, services and systems work towards progressing reconciliation.
First Nations history in Manningham
The East Kulin Nation have lived in the area now known as Melbourne, for more than 65,000 years harnessing the rich resources of the Yarra River and surrounding bush lands and ranges. Part of the East Kulin Nation are the Wurundjeri people who spoke the Woi-wurrung language who are the Traditional Owners of Manningham.
Wurundjeri people called the Yarra River "Birrarung" – 'river of mists and shadows'. The Birrarung was central to the traditional Country of the Wurundjeri willam people. Throughout Manningham, Wurundjeri people lived near the Birrarung and its tributaries, caring for the many culturally significant places in the area. The Yarra Flats in Manningham are associated with the accomplishments of creation ancestors and spiritual beings. Bolin Bolin Billabong in Bulleen was an important living and eel fishing area, a place which Wurundjeri people requested for their reserved use in 1840. It remained an important living area and visiting place for Wurundjeri people returning from lyrebird hunting in the Yarra Ranges into the 1850s.
For thousands of years the Wurundjeri nurtured and protected this land and its creation stories, and in return, enjoyed the highest standards of living, health and wellbeing. The river was plentiful with teeming wildfowl in the wetlands of Bulleen, continual harvests in the fish traps, and freshwater mussel farms along the Yarra. The Stringybark and Manna Gum forests also provided abundant game and bush tucker for a population of several hundred people.
The Wurundjeri people shared the same belief system as the East Kulin Nation. The creation period stretches back to when the creation ancestors and spirit beings travelled across the land, creating and naming as they went.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people's oral tradition and religious values are based upon reverence for the land, and a belief in the creation period. The social moiety division and associated spiritual beings of the Woi-wurrung speaking people were Bunjil the wedge-tailed eagle and Waa the crow. Wurundjeri people were of the Waa moiety. During the creation period, Bunjil is their ancestor responsible for the creation of earth and men. Pallian the bat is their ancestor responsible for the creation of water and women. Waa was the protector of humankind.
Some very famous Wurundjeri people are associated with Manningham. In particular, William Barak and Simon Wonga who were both leaders of their community and have descendants still living in the region, some of whom are now Senior Elders themselves.
First Nations cultural heritage places in Manningham
First nations cultural heritage places relate to a particular place that's considered to be a sacred or historically important place for First Peoples. However, it should be noted that not all First Peoples cultural heritage places hold significance to the Wurundjeri community. Within Manningham, we have more than 90 sites of Wurundjeri significance, some of which are the most significant within regional Melbourne. These sites include burial or birthing sites, trading places, travelling pathways, campsites and ceremonial sites, gathering places, mission sites, reserves, and places where conflict took place. Archaeological evidence or artefacts verify where such sites exist within Manningham, as well as stories passed down from generations of Wurundjeri Elders.
Wurundjeri Stories Trail at Pound Bend
Pound Bend Tunnel Reserve, Warrandyte State Park, Pound Bend Road Warrandyte
Wurundjeri Stories is a fascinating and beautifully presented interpretive signage trail at Pound Bend that explores the Wurundjeri history, culture, traditional life, spirituality, events and the people linked to this sacred site.
There are seven signs, each containing in-depth historical accounts presented by a Wurundjeri working group, with stunning artwork and historical photographs, following a flat 1km riverside path, which walkers may wish to continue along the 3.5km River Walk or Loop Walk. Each sign features a section entitled ‘Bunjil’s Challenge’ which encourages walkers to explore the local surrounds in search of key features such as bush tucker, and to consider traditional lifestyle scenarios, making the trail an incredibly engaging, thought provoking and interactive experience.
Wurundjeri Stories is ideal for the casual walker, organised school and pre-school excursions, community groups and a ceremonial space for special Wurundjeri events. Groups are able to arrange for a Wurundjeri Elder or Educator to lead their organised excursion to the site.
A Wurundjeri Stories interpretive sign is also located at Wittons Reserve in Wonga Park, which shares the Wurundjeri history of this site, considered to be Sacred Women’s Country. The sign marks the beginning of the scenic Mount Lofty walk, a section of the Wurundjeri Songline route, the major Wurundjeri travelling route to the Yarra Valley.
For more information about the trail content, or to organise an Elder please contact the Wurundjeri Tribe Council at reception@wurundjeri.com.au or phone 9416 2905.
Resources to support your visit to Wurundjeri Stories at Pound Bend:
First Nations Resources
Welcome to Country and Acknowledgement of Country
Welcome to Country and Acknowledgement of Country are important ways to recognise and respect Traditional Owners.
A Welcome to Country can only be performed by an Elder from the traditional custodial tribe. The Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation is the nominated Registered Aboriginal Party for Manningham, and as such all request for Welcome to Country ceremonies held within Manningham should be directed to the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Corporation. A Welcome to Country is a paid service and can be arranged by submitting an online booking request form.
An Acknowledgement of Country is a statement a speaker makes at the beginning of an event to acknowledge the traditional owners.
You can find out more about an Acknowledgement of Country at the Reconciliation Australia Website.
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Get out and about in Manningham and discover more than 20 unique public artworks commissioned by Council and located at various sites across the municipality.
What is public art?
Public art is defined as art in public places, it can take many forms including physical object, performance or creative process.
Public art is created with an express artistic, creative or cultural purpose and can be a catalyst for community expression, discussion and pride.
Public Art Program
Our Public Art Program actively commissions permanent and temporary contemporary public artworks of excellence, across the spectrum of public art practice that:
- respect the culture of traditional land-owners, Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung
- reflect local identity
- are site specific and enhance public places
- connect with community by stimulating reflection and imagination
- contribute to contemporary art practice.
Public Art Policy
Our Public Art Policy outlines our commitment to commissioning high-quality public artworks that celebrate local identity and cultural heritage, respect traditional landowners, and enhance community spaces.
It guides the creation of permanent and temporary artworks on public land, aligning with our objectives to support arts and cultural development.
Join the Public Artist Registry
Are you an artist interested in finding out about upcoming opportunities? Join the Public Artist Registry.
Browse our public art map
The city also features numerous works in private settings, including outside Westfield Shopping Centre, Doncaster, and at the celebrated Heide Museum of Modern Art.
More information
For more information about Public Art in Manningham, contact our Public Art Officer at arts@manningham.vic.gov.au or call 9840 9333.
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