Last night, 25 March, a petition to remove from permanent display the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags from all Manningham flagpoles and the cessation of holding a Welcome to Country ceremony and statement of the Acknowledgement of Country before any Council meeting or function, with 12 signatures was tabled at the Council meeting. The Council vote was to enable the petition to be tabled, and it did not provide any position on the matter.

In accordance with our Council meeting procedures, all petitions are formally tabled at the meeting, and Council votes to receive it.

Manningham Council's use of the Welcome To Country ceremony, statement of Acknowledgement of Country and the flying of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags are strategic elements of our Council Plan, endorsed Manningham Reconciliation Action Plan and Flying Flags In The Civic Precinct Policy; and designed to provide a roadmap for Manningham's own commitment to reconciliation.  

No decision has been made to change this current endorsed position.

Valuing free speech means listening to different views regardless of whether we agree or disagree with a position.

In line with our commitment to transparency and our standard procedures, we will respond to the lead petitioner and include that response in the Agenda papers for the April Council Meeting.

Deirdre

UPDATED: 28 March 2025 new date for community workshop

A new Arts Action Plan is set to guide future arts, culture and local history services, programs and activities in Manningham.

To inform the plan, artists, creatives and community members are invited to provide feedback to Council on what’s important to them about arts, culture and local history, and the types of programs they would like to see in the municipality.

Manningham Mayor, Cr Deirdre Diamante, said arts, culture and local history enriched community life by providing opportunities for expression and creativity, social connections and a sense of identity and belonging.

“Whether it’s visual arts and exhibitions, theatre, music and live performances, writing and literature, or photography and film - arts and culture touches everyone,” Cr Diamante said.

“Our local history dates back thousands of years from the traditional owners, the Wurrundjeri Woi-wurrung people, through the days of European settlement to our present multicultural community.

“Creative industries also form an important part of our local economy.”

Feedback can be provided by completing an online survey, or attending an online community workshop on Wednesday 8 April 2025, 6.00pm to 7.30pm.

More information is available at Your Say Manningham. Feedback closes Friday 25 April 2025.

UPDATED: 28 March 2025 new date for community workshop

We’re developing a new action plan to guide future arts, culture and local history services, programs and activities in Manningham.

We want to hear what’s important to you about arts, culture and local history, and the types of programs you would like to see in our municipality.

Mayor, Cr Deirdre Diamante, said arts, culture and local history enriched community life by providing opportunities for expression and creativity, social connections and a sense of identity and belonging.

“Whether it’s visual arts and exhibitions, theatre, music and live performances, writing and literature, or photography and film - arts and culture touches everyone,” Cr Diamante said.

“Our local history dates back thousands of years from the traditional owners, the Wurrundjeri Woi-wurrung people, through the days of European settlement to our present multicultural community.

“Creative industries also form an important part of our local economy.”

Share your thoughts by:

• completing our online survey at Your Say Manningham
• registering to attend our online community workshop on Wednesday 8 April 2025, 6.00pm to 7.30pm

Visit Your Say Manningham for more information and to have your say. 

Survey closes Friday 25 April 2025 at 5pm.

Updated: 22 January 2025

Improving the quality of our roads and stormwater drainage systems are some of the ways we’re building a better Manningham.

We're upgrading Oban Road in Ringwood North and Donvale to improve road and footpath safety and reduce flood risk.

Where is it?

This project will be delivered in two stages.

Stage one 

Construction will occur along Oban Road, between property 321 and the Glenvale Road intersection, Ringwood North. 

• stabilisation of the existing to improve pavement resilience
• localised pavement widening
• maintenance improvements to the existing kerb and channel
• new asphalt surface
• additional minor asphalt works along Beckett Road

Stage two

Construction will occur along Oban Road, between Glenvale Road and Smedley Road, Donvale.

• installation of underground stormwater drainage
• kerb and channel
• road widening in some sections
• weed removal
• new asphalt surface
• footpath upgrades, between Barnsdale and Smedley roads.

This project will be delivered under our 2024/25 Capital Works Program.

Why is it needed?

These works will deliver significant safety and environmental benefits.

Improvements include resurfacing the road to reduce potholes, rutting, and cracking, ensuring smoother and safer travel. Widening certain sections will provide sufficient space for vehicles to pass safely, minimising the risk of accidents. 

Installing underground drainage will effectively manage stormwater, reduce flood risks, and prevent road damage. Additionally, removing weeds will promote native biodiversity by controlling invasive species and supporting the local ecosystem.

When will the works happen?

• Stage one works will begin in early to mid-2025.
• Stage two works will begin after the stage one works, later in 2025.

These schedules are subject to weather conditions and third party approvals.

How will the works affect me?

Works will occur between 7.00am and 5.00pm on weekdays and 9.00am and 3.00pm on Saturdays.

During these times, you may notice:

• construction noise
• minor traffic delays 
• road closures with access granted to local residents
• reduced on street parking
• temporary disruptions to driveway access – we will contact affected properties directly.

Please follow the directions of staff and signs to move safely around the area.

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

 “Our aim was to improve our home’s efficiency and reduce our reliance on the grid,” explains Ken.

While the couple initially dreamed of being off-grid, they found a powerful alternative: a well-insulated home with rooftop solar and a battery system.

For Ken, who comes from the country and doesn’t identify as an environmentalist, it was clear that “this is the way we must go.”

So, in 2023, Ken and Joan upgraded their 1kW solar panels to a 10kW system and also purchased a Sungrow battery through the Solar Savers scheme.

The battery offers three-phase backup protection, which keeps their home steady if there’s a power outage or problem with the grid. They can also add extra units to increase the battery’s capacity – if their energy needs grow or they add more appliances.  

The impact? Less grid outages and more reliable energy. Plus, with an interest-free loan from Solar Savers, the upgrade was more affordable.

“While the total cost was around $20,000, I only paid $7,000 upfront, with the rest on an interest-free loan. It’s a great deal that’s made a huge difference for us.”

Solar Savers is part of our Electrify Your Life program which supports residents to go all-electric at home - creating a brighter Manningham. Learn how to make the switch at Electrify Your Life. Learn more about Solar Savers here.

A safe and secure home is the foundation for a healthy life, education, and connection to community. Right now we are seeing more people in Manningham facing housing stress and homelessness.

National Homelessness Week runs from 4 to 10 August and is an opportunity to raise awareness of the practical steps to address homelessness in our community.

Homelessness doesn’t discriminate — it can affect anyone. Rising housing costs mean some people are forced to choose between rent and food. We're also seeing a growing need for food relief and emergency support services locally.

If you or someone you know needs help, our Manningham Wellbeing Support Card connects you with local services that can provide support. Hard copies of these are available at community venues including Council facilities, libraries community centres, neighbourhood houses, sporting and social clubs.

Let’s work together to make our community a place where everyone has a home.

Our website provides an online resource directory of local crisis support services, including homelessness and crisis accommodation, emergency food relief, family violence support and wellbeing services.

This National Homelessness Week, we’re joining other councils and community organisations to highlight how we’re working together to support people doing it tough.

Want to learn more? Join us for the webinar More than Shelter on Thursday 7 August at 12:30pm, where we’ll explore the support services that offer safety and dignity to people experiencing homelessness.

Register now

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

We'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.

Improving drainage and flood mitigation is one of the ways we're building a better Manningham.

What's happening?

We’re upgrading the drainage system along Trezise Street and Cemetery Road, Warrandyte to improve stormwater management and reduce flood risk.

The project will involve:

• upgrading drainage
• installing kerb and channel

Where is it?

This project will include the drainage:

• along Trezise Street, between Yarra Street and Brackenbury Street.
• along Cemetery Road, between Yarra Street and Brackenbury Street.
• within the easement at 21 Brackenbury Street.
   

When will the works happen?

We’re delivering this project as part of our 2025/26 Capital Works Program. 

We’re seeking community feedback on this project until 22 August 2025. Find out more about this consultation on Your Say Manningham - Capital works in Warrandyte and Wonga Park.

Why is the upgrade needed?

This upgrade will improve stormwater management to prevent flooding, reduce water pooling, and minimise erosion. This will ensure a safer and more resilient environment for our community.

How will the works affect me?

We’ll provide information about any potential impacts closer to construction.

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.
 

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.