Manningham Council is inviting residents of Warrandyte, Wonga Park and surrounds to help shape infrastructure projects planned for their neighbourhood.

Locals are encouraged to attend a drop-in session this August to view project designs, ask questions and share feedback.

Manningham Mayor, Councillor Deirdre Diamante, said hearing directly from residents is essential to making decisions that reflect the community’s priorities.

“Discussing projects with residents throughout the design and planning phase leads to better decision-making and outcomes that reflect community needs and preferences,” 

“These sessions are a chance for us to explain decisions that have been made and ensure future outcomes are shaped by community input.”.

Projects open for consultation include:

• Footpath construction - Paynters Road and Reserve Road, Wonga Park
• Main Yarra Trail Extension (stage three) - Pound Road to Taroona Avenue, Warrandyte
• Footpath construction - Tindals Road, Warrandyte 
• Drainage upgrade - Trezise Street, Brackenbury Street and Cemetery Road, Warrandyte

Final designs available for viewing:

• Footpath and drainage upgrades - Alexander Road, Warrandyte
• Pedestrian refuge installation - Russell Road, Mullens Road and Ringwood Warrandyte Road intersection, Warrandyte
• Intersection upgrade - Pound Road, Warrandyte

Community drop-in session details:

• Monday 18 August, 4:00pm to 7:00pm
  Warrandyte Community Hall, 2–8 Taroona Avenue
• Monday 25 August, 4:00pm to 7:00pm
  Wonga Park Hall, corner of Launders Avenue and Yarra Road

No registration is required - just drop in and have your say.

For more information or to have your say via our online survey, go to yoursay.manningham.vic.gov.au/capital-works-warrandyte-wonga-park.

Residents of Warrandyte, Wonga Park and surrounds are invited to help shape infrastructure projects planned for their neighbourhood.

Attend a drop-in session this August to view project designs, ask questions and share feedback.

Our Mayor, Councillor Deirdre Diamante, said hearing directly from residents is essential to making decisions that reflect the community’s priorities.

“Discussing projects with residents throughout the design and planning phase leads to better decision-making and outcomes that reflect community needs and preferences,” 

“These sessions are a chance for us to explain decisions that have been made and ensure future outcomes are shaped by community input.”.

Projects open for consultation include:

• Footpath construction - Paynters Road and Reserve Road, Wonga Park
• Main Yarra Trail Extension (stage three) - Pound Road to Taroona Avenue, Warrandyte
• Footpath construction - Tindals Road, Warrandyte 
• Drainage upgrade - Trezise Street, Brackenbury Street and Cemetery Road, Warrandyte

Final designs available for viewing:

• Footpath and drainage upgrades - Alexander Road, Warrandyte
• Pedestrian refuge installation - Russell Road, Mullens Road and Ringwood Warrandyte Road intersection, Warrandyte
• Intersection upgrade - Pound Road, Warrandyte

Community drop-in session details:

• Monday 18 August, 4:00pm to 7:00pm
  Warrandyte Community Hall, 2–8 Taroona Avenue
• Monday 25 August, 4:00pm to 7:00pm
  Wonga Park Hall, corner of Launders Avenue and Yarra Road

No registration is required - just drop in and have your say.

For more information or to have your say via our online survey, go to Your Say Manningham - Capital Works in Warrandyte and Wonga Park.

We’re pleased to report that the Templestowe Route Upgrade is progressing ahead of schedule. Stage 2 has begun today and will continue until late December 2025.

The section of Anderson Street between James and Wood Streets has reopened in both directions.

About stage 2 construction

Anderson Street, between Wood and Unwin streets
Late July to December 2025

These works include reconstruction of the road, installation of underground drainage, some footpath works and new asphalt.

What to expect during construction:

• Work hours: 7:00am to 5:30pm, Monday to Saturday.
• You may notice some noise, dust and vibration from equipment like road profilers, excavators and light vehicles.
• All businesses will stay open and accessible.
• Footpaths will stay open.

Road and lane closures:

• Lane closures through the construction area with alternating traffic flow in both directions, guided by stop-go battens or temporary traffic lights.
• 4 August to 26 August 2025:
  Atkinson Street (west) at the intersection with Anderson Street will be closed with detour signs in place.

Bin collection:

• Bin collection will stay the same – if anything changes, we’ll contact you in advance.

Driveway access:

• Some driveways will be blocked at times when we are working in front of properties.
• If this affects you, our contractor, BMD Construction, will contact you to make a plan.

Public transport:

• Bus routes won’t be affected during Stage 2. Services will run as normal.

Service disruptions:

• There are currently no planned service outages (power, internet, water).
• We’re working closely with service providers to avoid unexpected disruptions.
• In the unlikely event of an interruption, the service provider will respond as usual.
• Updates will be on our website, and you can contact us on 9840 9333.

Landscaping and vegetation removal:

• A small amount of non-native vegetation will be removed to complete the works.
• New landscaping will be added across the project area.

Details on later stages will be provided as they approach.
 

Upcoming night works

Anderson Street, between James and Unwin streets
29 July to 1 August 2025

For 4 nights, we’ll also be working at night to install drainage on Anderson Street.

Works will happen between 8:00pm and 5:00am.

Road closure and detours:

• During night works, Anderson Street will be closed between James Street and Unwin Street.
• Access to all properties and businesses will be maintained.
• All heavy vehicles will need to follow the detour.
• We’ll have traffic management and signage in place to guide you around the area.

A video for a summary of the Stage 2 works

The stage 2 summary starts 1 minute and 15 seconds into this video.

Watch the video
 

Need help on site during the upgrade?

We're available to assist with any issues or enquiries.

Visit us

11:00am to 2:00pm on weekdays
Manningham Uniting Church, 109 Wood Street, Templestowe
Community Space 2 - the room to the left of the entrance.

Call us

For questions or support, call 9840 9333.
24/7 assistance is available for urgent enquiries.

Email us

manningham@manningham.vic.gov.au

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 are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of 2 Victoria Police officers, Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson and Senior Constable Vadim De Waart, and the serious injury of a third in the recent incident in country Victoria.

Our heartfelt condolences go out to their families, friends and the wider Police community. We also send our warmest wishes for the recovery of the injured officer.

This devastating event reminds us of the courage and commitment shown by those who serve and protect our communities. We honour their service and acknowledge the profound impact this loss has on our wider community.

Manningham Council has a strong partnership with Victoria Police and those that serve to keep the Manningham community safe. As a small gesture of acknowledgement and support, we are lighting up our signage outside the Civic Centre in blue from Friday 29 to Sunday 31 August. 

Deirdre Diamante
Mayor Manningham Council

Warrandyte residents are invited to take part in an important research project aimed at keeping the community safer. 

The Country Fire Authority (CFA) wants to know how you interpret fire risk messages – particularly those used in the Australian Fire Danger Rating System.

Your insights will help fire agencies across Victoria improve how they deliver fire danger messages – making them easier to understand and act on.

What’s involved

To participate, you'll take part in a one-hour interview with a CFA officer, where you will be asked to share: 

• your perception and comprehension of fire risk
• how you communicate fire risk, including the fire danger ratings
• your experiences and thoughts on bushfire risk and preparedness
• challenges encountered
• suggestions related to how fire risk communication can be improved.

Interviews are available online or in person, at a time convenient to you. The interview will be recorded with your consent.

To sign up, complete the online registration form.

Interviews are underway and will continue through to the end of October 2025.

This research is funded by Emergency Management Victoria, on behalf of all fire agencies in Victoria.

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. 
 

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.

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.