Local government council meetings follow structured governance procedures including formal opening declarations, conflict of interest disclosures, agenda item presentations, public question time, and voting on motions. Councils must balance community engagement with efficient decision-making, ensuring transparency while managing complex infrastructure projects like road renewals, level crossing removals, and cultural precinct developments. Effective council governance requires clear communication with stakeholders, proper consultation processes, and adherence to local government legislation such as the Local Government Act 2020.
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Council Meeting - 21 July 2026
Added:Heat. Heat. [music] >> [music] [music] [music] [music] >> Good evening everyone to the gallery and those joining us at home. I'm Councelor Muhammad Samra, mayor of the city of Mabalong, and I welcome everyone to the July 2026 meeting. I declare this meeting opened at 6:29 p.m. Malong City Council acknowledges the traditional custodians of land, the Woundry, Wurong, and Bun Wurong, Bunarong peoples of the Ka nation, and pays his respect to the elders, past, present, and emerging. I remind everyone um to switch off your phones or please have them on silent.
advise the gallery that that this meeting is being recorded and will be available on council's website after the meeting concludes. All care is taken to maintain your privacy. Um however, your presence may be recorded. In accordance with council's governance rules, meetings um may not be photographed unless with the um permission of the chief executive officer. I advise that there are no apologies for tonight. All councilors are present. Um councilors, are there any leave of absence requests?
Perfect. Um, in accordance with local government act 2020, do any councilors have a conflict of interest on any of the agenda items?
[clears throat] Um, there's been a change to um the agenda items. Can the CEO please elaborate?
>> Thank you, mayor. Um I wish to advise the meeting that agenda item 9.1 planning application TP178/2025 for 17 to9 Bloomfield Avenue Marabanong has been withdrawn from tonight's agenda. This is due to an administrative error where not all objectors to this planning application were formally advised of this item being considered at this meeting and the item has therefore been deferred to the 18 August council meeting for consideration and we do apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused.
>> Thank you, Celia. Um I advise that we'll be suspending standing orders. So I call for council to move a motion to suspend standing orders to enable council to receive a presentation of artwork relating to the Melbourne on flood recovery from St. Margaret's Primary School in Melbourne.
>> Council Yeni.
>> Uh yes, I would like to suspend standing orders to present the work that's been presented to us by St. Margaret's Primary School.
>> Thank you, Council Yi. I'll put the motion to a vote.
>> Uh did the motion carried.
>> Great. Um so just before I stand up to present I just wanted to say a couple of words uh which is one to thank uh St. Margaret's Primary School based in the Esplanard. Um this is specifically the year3 students who um have done some really amazing work. I went and presented at the school at the end of May um on their democracy session and um spoke about council and council's work and you know what our responsibility is um as you would know mayor um that a healthy democracy depends on informed and engaged citizens. So we had a really great conversation. Um following this uh presentation, students did a project um and basically went around the community and came up with some recommendations and suggestions for council on improving community spaces. So um today uh when I went to drop off my daughter, um the school asked me um if we would accept the recommendations that the students um have put together for us for our consideration, which I've accepted. So I would like to present these to you. Um and just quickly I want to thank the teachers. So this is all the year three teachers um 3A, 3B and 3 C. And also the students I'm going to list their names very quickly. Uh, Dante, Ryan, Olivia, um, Miller, Wolf, Chloe, Elijah, Lenny, Tashi, Isabelle, Milana, Maya, and Xavier, Yips, Axel, Ruby, Lucas, Wesley, Catherine, Rose D, Isabelle, Colin, Alana, Richie, Henry, Harrison, Alli, Theo, Daniel, Navy, McKenzie, Charlie, Ella, Luna, Bodie, Winter, Aurora, Cruz, Sienna, Ellery, Terrence, Winnie, my daughter, Audrey, River, Zara, Hannah, Evelyn, Archer, Maximus, Alyssa, Lucas, M, Dathan, William, Adrien, Rose V, Elelliana, and Lucas A. Thank you guys so much for all the hard work that you've put in into this submission. Um I want to mention that we are going to um showcase your recommendations and submission downstairs in the foyer area um for a week or two and then we will hopefully be able to um showcase this at the Marabon community center as well. So thank you guys very much. Just briefly um from my fellow counselors, I had a quick read of the recommendations and they did some have some really amazing things to say. Um some of which includes uh providing swings for um disabled children to be able to access. Uh having rock climbing walls, having a sand pit, having uh spaces where we have more shade um and also having play equipment that's a little bit more targeted at the older kids. I'm going to direct this to the director for infrastructure, Patrick. This is all for you for your consideration. So thank you guys and I will go and um yeah get the items and present them to you.
Thank you councelor Yangi and I think we have a few counselors from amongst the group that you mentioned [laughter] I think anytime our young people are enable to contribute um to our decision- making and then it is a good thing and you know Melbourne from a council perspective we've never been more serious I think about investing in our young people and working alongside them um to make things happen. So, thank you so much, Council Yangi, for bringing this to us. I now call a council to move a motion to resume standing orders.
Council Lamb, I'll put the motion to a vote.
I declare the motion carried.
We now move to public question time.
Public question time is managed in accordance with council's governance rules. Members of the public can submit a maximum of three questions um prior to the commencement of the meeting. As chair, I will decide who answers them.
Um, public question time is limited to 15 minutes unless counselors consent to an extension. When we have reached our 15 minutes, um, I will ask councilors to extend the time for an additional 15 minutes. Um, I'll now begin question one from Julie Ning. In the plans for the proposed 12 towns house development at 1719 Bloomfield Avenue, the retaining wall is included in the deep soil calculations. A retaining wall is an engineered structure requiring footings and excavation limiting soil depth and root growth. How can trees achieve their intended mature canopy if the retaining wall restricts root development? Our director planning and environment please respond.
>> Thank you mayor and through you. Newly planted uh trees have dynamic root systems that are capable of adapting to their surrounding environment during the establishment phase. As trees mature, their root systems naturally exploit soil conditions, growing into areas that provide suitable moisture, oxygen, and soil volume. Healthy root development is linked to healthy canopy growth and long-term tree performance. While the proposed retaining walls and its foundation may influence circumferential root development in some areas is not expected to prevent trees from establishing a functional and sustainable root system where physical constraints are encountered. Roots will typically redirect their growth into adjacent areas that offer more favorable growing conditions.
>> Thank you, Mike. Question two from Julie. In the plans, the western boundary runs to unit 3 garage wall.
However, there is an existing 20 mm here. The drawings also indicate a 2 meter fence whereas the existing fence varies from 800 to,600 mm. Where is the boundary line and is the fence is existing?
>> Thank you, mayor. And through you, the 2 m high fence on the bound uh on the boundary is proposed. This is not a reference to existing conditions.
>> Question three. In the state government's recycling Victoria policy, there is a provision for glass recycling and dedicated hard waste management 2 * 3 mill* 2 by 2027. The plan claims there are dedicated bin storage areas, but this space has not been indicated. Where is it? Thank you, mayor. and through you.
There are two communal bin storage areas within the front setback and council's waste team uh is satisfied with the waste management arrangements.
>> Yep. Thank you, Mike. We have a question from Warren Penna. Why is council not addressing the entirety of Barkley Street bike lanes, traffic, and parking?
The bigger problem is the other end summer hill road to Ashley Street where bike lanes are marked and and doubles for car parking marking them tokenistic.
Can I please get director of infrastructure to respond?
Thank you mayor and through you. Uh the report tablet at tonight's council meeting addresses a section of Barkley Street in Fusgray between Summer Hill Road and Julong Road. This section was identified as part of council's capital works program due to the deteriorating road pavement and therefore the need to reshat the road. The project uh also presents the opportunity to consider other safety and amenity improvements such as bike and pedestrian safety and streetscape improvements. In regards to other sections of Barkley Street, the width and local context differs greatly along its length. For example, the cross-section is 14 m in the village, but ranges between 20 to 30 m in width between Summer Hill Road and Jalong Road. This means that the traffic volumes and traffic speeds differ along the route. So, the most appropriate bike infrastructure treatment differs accordingly. In addition to this particular project, a separate piece of work is currently being undertaken on the section of Barkley Street between Argal uh street and some hill road. Some public consultation on this section has already occurred and detailed designs are currently being finalized. These projects help to build a network of safe infrastructure for all road users and we will continue to work on other sections as we continue to improve the network.
Uh thank you Patrick and I think this project presents an opportunity to make you know this important corridor um work better for more people whether pedestrians, cyclists um you know families that are walking their children to um child care and our young people riding their bikes to school. Have a question from Edward Mirfield. Three questions. Question one, can council provide the total spent or committed to date on the Barkley Street bike lane and road renewal project including 2025 26 and 2026 27 costs itemized by repairs, surveys, traffic studies, consultants, design and other expenses. Um, due to these questions being similar, I'll read them out um and ask that the director answer them together. Question two, before consultation, were any road works, repairs, designs, contracts, or other works linked to the proposed concept undertaken or committed? If so, why? Three, could this spending preempt or limit council's final decision after consultation? Can I get director to please respond?
>> Thank you, mayor, and through you. As mentioned in the previous response, this section of Barkley Street was identified as part of council's capital works program due to the deteriorating road pavement and the need to reshoot the road. officers have taken the opportunity to include bike, pedestrian, and street scope improvements as part of that design process. This work has largely been undertaken inhouse at a cost of approximately $50,000 to date.
The report tabled at tonight's meeting is seeking council's approval to engage the community on the draft concept design. Pending that approval, officers will be reporting back to council with a recommended final design following the consultation. Uh the pre-investigative work bears no impact on that final decision.
>> Um thank you Patrick. Have a question from Margaret and if I pronounce any names um wrong I apologize. Question one is there consultation with emergency services fire brigade ambulance as to the impact of the proposed closure of a coronation street and their ability to attend an emergency in a timely manner.
Knowing minutes can be the difference between a good outcome rather than tra tragedy. Can I get director of infrastructure to please respond?
>> Uh, thank you, mayor. I think this is in relation to Bell & Beaver's projects and designs. Uh, I can confirm that council commissioned an independent traffic assessment which concluded that the proposed road closure would not have an adverse impact on traffic conditions within the surrounding road network. As part of the statutory road closure process, a further assessment will be undertaken in accordance with the requirements of the local government act 2020. As a part of this assessment, emergency services agencies are notified and asked for their comment input to the process. This secondary assessment forms part of council's due diligence process and is intended to verify and confirm the findings of the initial traffic assessment before any final decision is made regarding road closure.
>> Thank you Patrick. We have three questions from Ken Betts. Question one burn. What parking occupancy and traffic studies were completed before proposing the loss of about 34 spaces?
Um can I get infrastructure please?
Yes. Uh thank you mayor through you. Uh and I think this would be referring to the Barkley Street uh prop project proposed on tonight's agenda. Uh so two parking occupancy surveys have been undertaken on Barkley Street in June 2022 and July 2025 to understand the current usage on the on the street parking bays. An additional parking occupancy survey is currently being undertaken on the surrounding streets to better understand impacts to nearby parking. if some parking is removed on Barkley Street as part of the proposed project.
>> Um, question two from Ken. Will council manage spillover and impacts on residents, businesses, schools, disabled access, public transport, and emergency services.
>> Patrick, >> thank you. And through you, mayor. Uh through the engagement process, we will work with uh any impacted community members and businesses to understand and where possible address their needs for access and on street parking through design refinement and parking signage changes.
Question three from Ken. 5% versus 20%, why endorse Bicycle Network's 5% funding campaign when a council has previously advocated through the MAV for active transport funding to move towards 20%.
Thank you, Mayor. And through you, [snorts] earlier this year, council created a motion that was supported by the Municipal Association of Victoria to seek a long-term stable and ongoing funding program of 20% of the transport budget to towards active transport.
Active transport includes walking infrastructure, bike riding infrastructure, and also infrastructure that is used by both pedestrians and bike riders at the same time. The Gimme Five campaign that's referred to in the question uh that bike network is leading is seeking a state government commitment of 5% of the transport budget to be allocated to construct the strategic cycling corridor network. Uh these these corridors are a segment of the bike network dedicated to commuter trips to work or for education purposes. The strategic cycling corridor uh network links up important destinations such as Melbourne CBD employment and activity centers. Uh so it would be seen that these advocacy efforts are complimentary of each other.
>> Question from Joseph Gal.
Question one. The forum on 1st of July was triggered as there was more than 10 35 in fact formal objections submitted.
Please advise the date on which the planning officer's report and recommendation for application TP178 um 1719 Bloomfield Avenue was finalized and submitted to council.
>> Can I get to planning to respond?
>> Thank you, mayor. Uh planning officer's report and recommendation was finalized for inclusion in the council meeting agenda on the 14th of July.
>> Question two from Joseph. We understand there's no legal requirement to individually notify objectors of the decision date, but given overwhelmingly overwhelmingly 35 people objected, 10 is the minimum and several weren't aware of this being decided upon today, does council consider the adequate that adequate communication?
>> Thank you, mayor. This uh matter was addressed by the CEO just earlier, but um for the record, in preparing for the council meeting, we've realized that letters were not issued to each of the 35 objectors advising them that the planning application would be considered at tonight's meeting. And whilst there is no legal obligation to individually notify objectors, this is a standard practice which has not occurred due to an administrative oversight. Council takes participation and transparency in decision-m very seriously. In order to ensure all objectives have the opportunity to observe the meeting, submit questions and make a verbal submission. A decision on the planning application um was made to be deferred to the next uh council meeting on the uh 18th of August. And the planning team is called and emailed every objector and the permanent applicant earlier today advising them of this situation.
Um thank you Mike and I think an apologies in order for um any of the objectives. Um I think it's important that you know we do um in inform the community and um that's why it's been uh moved to the following meeting. Um we'll go to Aurora Beleras. Question one, how does council justify approving TP178 um at 1719 Bloomfield Avenue given that it it has a stat statutory duty under section 26 of the public health and wellbeing act 2008 to prevent disease and environmental health risks. Can I get director of planning and environment to respond?
>> Thank you, mayor. uh council's decision-making duties and obligations for planning applications are governed by the planning and environment act 1987 and any relevant environmental or health risks identified in planning policy.
Whilst we acknowledge the concerns raised in the correspondence, uh the impacts identified are not matters which can be considered in council's decision in this planning application. Section 26 of the Public Health and Well-being Act 2008 does not have the effect of bringing all matters relating to disease and public health into the statutory planning decision-making context.
We'll go to question from Chris Lee.
Three questions. The first question, noting that council's tender for the demolition of this site closed in mid midappril, has a contractor been officially appointed and what is the exact date that physical demolition works will begin? Can I get director of infrastructure and services please?
>> Thank you and through you may and I believe Mr. Lee is referring to uh David House facility uh can confirm that demolition works will commence in mid August.
>> Thank you. Question two from Chris.
Given the repeated incidents involving squatters and trespasses at the site and the multiple attendances by Victoria Police and Fire Rescue, what actions has council taken to improve the site security and public safety?
Thank you. And through you, mayor. Uh so council has been involved previously when these instances have occurred and uh we're also going to be undertaking periodic evening security patrols uh until the building is demolished.
>> Question three, once the demolition is finally complete and the site is cleared, what is council's long-term plan or intended use for this land and how will the YAL community be consulted?
When should we expect the community needs analysis published for consultation?
Thank you and through your mayor. Uh council is currently undertaking the Yaraveville community infrastructure feasibility study which is focusing on a number of community facilities within the Arabal precinct. It's anticipated that this will be completed early in the new year and as part of this project consultation opportunities will occur with stakeholders and residents and users of a variety of services to assist. Uh council will advertise these opportunities through our usual consultation channels as well as targeting specific groups and interested parties. Uh noting interests will pass along um the questions details to officers managing the project uh to keep you informed.
>> Thank you Pat. Um I would ask councilors to if we can extend the time of public question time by 15 minutes. Just show of hands. Yep, it's fine.
We'll continue with Brian Sanderson.
One question. At at the last council meeting, the mayor moved the motion regarding public lighting and community safety given council had only just adopted its um 2026 27 budget a week earlier. Why did the mayor not put this project through the budget process to allow rate payers to comment? Can I get the CO2 to please respond?
>> I'm happy to answer that uh mayor and through you. Uh and thank you for your question, Mr. Sanderson. The council's governance rules um enable councilors to submit and move notices of motion on matters they wish council to consider at any time provided they meet the relevant criteria. And this one did meet the criteria. Notices of motion are an established mechanism for raising issues of emerging community interest that can generally be used for seeking further information or requesting a report from the chief executive officer. In most circumstances, notices of motion do not commit council to future expenditure.
In this instance, the motion did not amend the adopted budget uh allocate funding or commit council to undertake any expenditure. Rather, it requested that officers prepare a report for council's future consideration regarding public lighting uh and security.
Um the motion it itself um did request officers to prepare a report uh as I've said and the you know any future proposal arising from that report that involves expenditure would need needs to go to the council and needs to be considered by council. Um at this point there is nothing in the budget uh for that particular if there is a project that comes out of that but we will await the report. Um the motion was able to be considered independently of the budget process because it sought further investigation and reporting only and did not itself commit council to spending funds or undertaking specific works.
>> Thank you mayor. Thank you, Silia. And just to make a quick comment, um I've heard from a lot of members in our community um around the importance of public lighting that that makes sense um for the community in relations to safety. And us as counselors, we need to make informed decisions. And essentially, you know, what the motion asks for is for the relevant information so that then there's a strategic approach to where we where our focus is um particular where it comes to safety and public lighting.
Question two from Brian. Does the CEO believe that notices of motions such as these have a negative impact on the organization delivery on set budget priorities and initiatives outlined in the council plan?
>> Thank you mayor and through you. No, it does not have a these notices of motion do not have a negative impact on the organization. Uh the notice of motion in in question satisfied all the criteria of council's governance rules and was therefore accepted for consideration at the June meeting.
>> Thank you. Soya. Uh, question three from Brian. Given ongoing antisocial behaviors in the Fusco CBD, including at least two homicides this calendar year, why is there not a monthly report provided regarding progress against the FSK CBD place plan 2020 202526?
Can I get the director of planning and environment, please?
>> Thank you, Mayor. The Footsgrade CBD place plan does not require a monthly reporting to council. The plan provides for actions to be tracked and monitored throughout the year with regular progress reports to council and a comprehensive annual report to be presented at the conclusion of the 12-month implementation period. The reporting framework was intentionally designed to focus resources on delivery rather than preparation of uh monthly reports. Importantly, while recent serious incidents in the CBD are deeply concerning, many of the factors contributing to crime, public safety, and antisocial behavior involve agencies beyond council, including the Victoria Police, police, health services, and state government agencies. Council's role through the place is to improve amenity activation, place management, partnerships, and community well-being as a as a part of a broader revitalization effort rather than act as lead law enforcement agency. That said, council already undertakes ongoing monitoring of place plan initiatives and progress is reported through existing governance and corporate reporting processes.
Thank you, Mike. We have three questions from Steve Cury. Question one, we are Bonbury Village homeowners facing structural damage linked to moisture changes and tree roots. Council holds a development geotechnical report warning against planting large trees close to homes. What action will council take to prevent further damage? Can I get director of infrastructure to please respond?
>> Thank you and through you, mayor. And we we have um been investigating this matter for a little while now and I can confirm that an independent ground penetrating radar GPR assessment uh commissioned by council found no evidence of tree roots extending extending into the affected properties or into the area where the observed building damage has occurred. The report concluded that there is no compelling evidence that the council trees are the primary cause of the damage. The assessment found the damage pattern is inconsistent with tree related substance and is more likely associated with sight specific soil and foundation conditions.
>> Question two from Steve. Will council immediately suspend planting the same or similar tree species near homes in Bumbrey village while an independent review assesses the risks identified in the FMG engineering report.
>> Thank you. And through I can confirm there's no tree planting uh plan for this area.
Question three from Steve. Council officers have all been copied into emails and are aware of the FMG report yet calls the emails remain unanswered.
Will council provide a clear plan to address existing trees and prevent future damage.
>> Can I get um director of infrastructure response? Thank you and through your mirror and firstly apologies uh to Steve if if we've been on timely with our responses to emails or calls but I can confirm that council officers have now responded to to Steve on this matter.
>> We have three questions from Fred Madden. Question one regarding Beavers and Bell reserves upgrades. Council has since confirmed further traffic and pedestrian safety work still remains outstanding. What specific matters remain outstanding today that they were not completed before council voted in April and again Patrick.
>> Thank you and through you may I question if any matters remain outstanding we've officers who followed the direction of council following his decision. Uh but I can say that as part of the formal road closure process under the local government act uh we'll be undertaking a further assessment of the proposal to determine whether the road should be permanently closed. This process ensures a robust and transparent decision-making framework is applied. It also provides an opportunity for public submissions with all submitters afforded the right to be heard by council before any final decision is made.
Question two from Fred. Since councilors acknowledged on 16th of June that they had not appreciated aspects of the traffic evidence before voting in April, what additional traffic or pedestrian safety information has since been presented to councilors?
>> Thank you. And through your mayor officers have provided no additional information at this stage as there's been uh no need at this point in time.
>> Question three. Can a counselor help residents understand the sequence of events? Council read it in April later acknowledged it had not appreciated aspects of the traffic. Evidence has confirmed further work remains yet the project continues. How should residents understand the sequence.
>> Uh thank you and through you may uh I guess I get again a question that uh the accuracy of of the of those statements.
Um I I would say that work hasn't continued to the sense of the project pressing. I can say that there is no funding for construction uh in in the current budget uh for road closure or for the public toilet projects um planning has continued but no physical works.
>> Y >> could I add Mia uh through you that councilors have received all the information related to this project?
>> Yep. Thank you Celia.
There's four questions um that are um similar. So I will pose them together um to to the director of infrastructure services to respond. We have three questions from Cheryl Nicholas Nicholas one regarding Beaver and Bell reserve petition to chief executive officer 16th of June. Since then, it's grown. Yet, after one full council cycle, residents are still waiting for a substantial response despite follow-up request. What can residents understand that that referral to mean? Question two. On the same evening, the council referred the petition. It adopted a community engagement policy committing to listening to residents and closed the loop.
What specific actions has council taken since then in relation to the petition?
I was just asking on some governance advice. Um but these um seem to be a bit different. Um so is right if you can answer them um in blocks the first two.
Patrick >> uh thank you in May. I'll just note that these questions have uh come in uh late tonight. Um so I'll do my best to to respond with the information at hand. Um I can confirm that uh with those first couple of questions that officers are very confident in the engagement process that we've undertaken and the due diligence that's being followed. Um and as I mentioned earlier there there is no budget for construction of these works that are mentioned in these questions um in this current financial year.
Um if the beaver and bell reserves petition reflects the voice of a portion of dissatisfied residents in the community, doesn't council have a duty to residents to offer an opportunity for them to meet with the relevant council departments to discuss their matters of concern?
>> Thank [clears throat and snorts] you, Mir. And through you and again, we're very confident in the engagements been undertaken. Um uh at this point in time, there is no need to meet with residents because we haven't got an a project to implement. uh even when council adopts these projects for construction, which wouldn't be at until next financial year at the earliest, uh officers would then re-engage with the community.
>> Um question from Christy Elliot regarding Beaver's Bell reserves.
Proposed closure coronation street council has confirmed further traffic work is still required. Specifically, what traffic related matters not previously assessed before council's April vote will that work examined?
Thank you mayor. Again I'm not sure I agree with uh what the questions suggest in there. Uh we've taken undertaken traffic impact assessments. Uh the results of that were indicated that the impact would be very minimal if any. Uh but again as we progress through detail design in in future budgets uh we'll be undertaking further uh traffic impact assessments uh as part of due diligence.
>> Yeah. So there are a few questions that will be taken on notice um due to arriving um quite late and we want to be able to ensure that we can um give those that have asked a question you know the right um full information and so I would read out these questions and um taken on notice.
>> Yeah. So >> I think sorry through through you mayor I think in regard to Mr. Kil Patty's questions we may be able to answer some of them but certainly Allison boasts questions we need to take on notice.
>> We have three questions from Steven Kilpati on agenda item 10.1 report indicates that new equipment be required to clean proposed bike lanes. Can council advise purchase costs of equipment and the estimated annual cleaning and maintenance costs to ensure that Melbour payers understand the outgoing expense.
>> Thank you. And through you may unable to provide those details tonight. That would be a matter that is subject to procurement uh once the project or even when the project progresses.
>> Yeah. And should I assume as the two follow-up questions are similar? Um I would get a similar response.
>> Uh you probably need to read the question. I'd suggest the next question is a is a hypothetical if >> so. Question to um agenda item 10.1.
Given the 1.49 49 million budget for the project. Has council assessed if any discretionary funding could instead support community safety, social cohesion, or preventative services that benefit the wider community?
>> I I can answer that through you, mayor.
This is an adopted budget in the project and officers will be under undertaking it in accordance with council's decision uh following um following tonight's decision uh and if if awarded when officers return with a further report.
Yeah.
Question three, agenda item 10.1. If consultation shows limited community support for the proposed design, will council reconsider its scope and costs and report on whether any savings could be directed to broader community priorities?
>> Again, through you may be hesitant to predict uh you know what might occur following a consultation processes. Many variables that could could uh come from that. somebody hesitant to answer that directly.
>> Yeah, we have two questions from Allison Boy.
Um I will read them out and if an officer wishes to respond, um please do so. If not, they'll be taken on notice.
Um question one regarding the proposed Beaver's Reserve toilet. We live directly opposite the site and participated in consultation as we believed our feedback could influence whether a toilet was built opposite our home. What feedback resulted in council retaining the toilet in this location?
>> Thank you, Marin. As we've answered in previous public time and uh as detailed in previous reports, um there was mixed feedback with the um proposal of a of a toilet uh in this concept design. Um you about 50/50 as we've reported previously. Um and as mentioned previously uh the community engagement is one part of council's decision-m process uh open space planning principles and and other factors also come into it and again um a concept on design has been approved but the actual uh construction of the project has not uh yet been approved and that's subject to further um budget deliberations.
>> Yeah. Question two. As a resident who will live directly opposite this facility every day, how were the concerns raised by nearby households reflected in the recommendation presented to councilors?
>> Thank you. And through you may so um council was aware of through through the report to council that there were mixed views through this consultation process.
U some for and some against and on balance made it decision.
>> Yeah.
Thank you, Patrick. Um, I will now declare question time closed at 7:08 p.m.
We'll [clears throat] now move to the confirmation of minutes. Agenda item 6.1, confirmation of minutes. I'll call for council to move a motion. Council Lamb, >> I call for council to second.
Officer's recommendation that council confirm the minute of the hearing of budget submission meeting held on the 26th of May 2026.
>> I call for councelor to second the motion.
>> Um I'll now put the motion to a vote.
>> This didn't come up here.
>> We'll raise our hands. Yeah, I declare the motion carried. Agenda item 6.2 confirmation of minutes. I call for council to move a motion. Councelor Thomas, >> sorry that council confirms the minutes of the hearing of budget submissions meeting held on 25 May 2026.
Call >> by council to second the motion.
Councelor Pereira. Uh now put the motion to vote.
All hands. Yep. Declare the motion carried.
Move to agenda item 6.3. Confirmation of minutes 16th of June 2026. I'll call for council to move a motion. Council Yi.
>> That council confirms the minutes of that council confirms the minutes of the council meeting held on 16th June. Call for council to second the motion.
Councelor Meredith. I'll now put the motion to vote.
Um, yep, it's back on.
Please cancel this vote.
Declare the motion carried.
Uh councilors, there are no reports from committees to be tabled at this meeting.
Um I advise councilors that in accordance with with council's governance rules, a councelor may read the petition text but not permit but is not permitted to speak to the petition.
We've received one one petition um planning application TP1782517-9 Bloomfield Avenue, Melbourne. I'll call for council to move a motion. Council Eni >> that council receives and notes the petition planning application TP178/2 2025 uh 17 to19 Bloomfield Avenue Marabanong and notes that the planning application will be considered at a future council meeting in August. I >> call for council to second the motion.
Council Meredith, I'll now put the motion to a vote. Councilor, please cast your vote.
I declare the motion carried.
We now move to officer reports. Agenda item 10.1 Barkley Street bike lane and road renewal project. I call for a council to move a motion.
Councelor Thomas that council one endorse the concept design for the upgrade of Barkley Street Footsay between Summer Hill and Jalong Roads shown at attachment two to be released for community consultation.
Two, note a report will be presented on the outcomes of the community consultation at a future meeting. And three, note that officers will continue discussions with the Department of Transport and Planning regarding bus stop treatments and associated approvals.
>> Call for council to second the motion.
Um, councelor Meredith. Um, are there any questions or points of clarification? Councilors, uh, would the would the mover like to speak to the motion?
>> Say a few words. Um, I think this is a a really um good design outcome and um a good start to um perhaps a longer redesign of Barkley Street that brings um some urban design um improvements to particularly to this section of Barkley Street, but also some improvements for people who walk along here, people who ride or scoot, um people who want to catch public transport as Well, and for people who drive because at the moment the uh this section part of this section is really wide and it's only 40ks and it kind of lends itself to um people speeding. So I feel a little sorry for those people who may have um got a speeding fine while driving along there. Um but the design brings in, you know, additional trees um uh importantly some protected bike lanes for people who do ride or who are scooting, improvements to some of the bus stops as well. um and really kind of I guess rejuvenates what is a little bit of a an unloved um section of Barkley Street. So, um I think this is a really good outcome and people will notice in the design that as with that often happens when you're on a bike lane, it kind of runs out or not kind of, it does run out when you um approach an intersection. But noting that the officers h of course understand this and um they're in discussions with the department of transport. They have been for some time to try and see what um improvements or uh what updates um post you know this design going out to the um to the community for consultation that we can they can work into um the design in the future. But they're continuing those conversations. they're really aware of it and it's an it will be an important addition to what I think is an otherwise really um really good design outcome. Thanks.
>> Thank you, Councelor Thomas. With the second like to speak to the motion.
>> Yep. Thank you, Mayor. Just briefly, um there's the report identifies a number of existing issues along this section of Barclay Street, including deteriorating road pavement, inconsistent cycling infrastructure, vehicle speeds that exact like that go regularly over 40 kilometers and there's limited pedestrian opportunities to cross as well. So this design is much more than just bike lane. Um it is about creating a safer street for everybody. So the draft concept is about creating a safer, more accessible street for everybody.
People walking, people with mobility, um things to riding, catching public transport, driving, uh people visiting local businesses, school. It's it's just a much better um design for a street.
And I do like the trees, too. Um, at the moment the the street is pretty blank, so having some additional trees there, it's a fantastic thing. So, I'm looking forward to um putting this out into the community and seeing what the community think about it as well.
>> Thanks.
>> Thank you, Councelor Murder. Any other council like to speak to the motion?
>> Council Yi, >> thank you. Um, I'll just say a couple of words because most have has already been said, but just um to urge the community to um have a look at this and provide input. Um, this upgrade for Barclay Street isn't just needed, but it's necessary to ensure that our community can get around seamlessly. Um, and it's also an opportunity for us, you know, as council to, um, create better connections for our community so that, you know, we can connect with each other, um, you know, regardless of where we are, but also really important that, you know, our kids are able to get to the places they need to get to and not just get there, but get there safely.
So, um, yeah, as the ultimate road users, um, we're really keen to hear from community and understand your thoughts. Um, any potential impacts that maybe we haven't considered. Um, also just really keen, you know, for you to tell us whether you think we've got this right or if there are any adjustments that need to be made.
>> Thank you, Council Yi. Any other council like to speak to the motion? Councelor Tor.
>> Uh, thanks, Mayor. I just wanted to say that I support the officer recommendation to release this concept designed for community consultation. And I just want to note that it's important that we make it clear that tonight we're not giving final approval for construction, nor are we committing council to every element of the current design. What we're doing is we're agreeing to place the proposal before the community here directly from those affected and bring it back to council before any final decision is made. Um I just wanted to take out a few extracts from the report. So, Barklay Street is an important east-west corridor and as the report indicates, it carries approximately 18,400 vehicles each day, supports three bus routes and provides access to schools, businesses, Witten Oval, and the wider foot activity center. The road is also deteriorating and requires renewal. There are genuine safety issues to address. The report identifies 12 recorded crashes between 2020 and 2025, resulting in five serious injuries and nine other injuries. It also notes speeding, limited pedestrian crossing opportunities, and inconsistent cycling infrastructure. At the same time, this proposal involves significant trade-offs. It would remove approximately 34 of the existing 96 on street parking spaces, and that's not a minor change, and residents, businesses, schools, visitors, traders, and people with mobility needs deserve clear information about how they may be affected. Some residents have also raised concerns that the proposed bike lanes do not connect into a continuous cycling network and may represent poor value for money if delivered in isolation. That concern together with feedback about park alternate routes must be properly considered. Once consultation opens, I strongly encourage residents to formally provide their feedback so it becomes part of the consultation record. I also welcome the opportunity for more trees and greenery along this corridor of Barkley Street. As someone who has lived in this area for a long time, I know this corridor would benefit from more shade, landscaping, and the greenery.
Done properly, it could improve the street and make it more comfortable and attractive for everyone. However, consultation must be genuine and not just a box ticking exercise. When this matter returns to council, I expect the report to explain the concerns raised, the alternate alternatives considered, any changes made, and how community feedback influence the final recommendation.
I've already advised the mayor that I intend to personally door knock residents with their project boundaries.
And I'll not be telling people what position to take, of course, but I want to ensure that they know about the proposal, understand how it may affect them, and they're encouraged to have their say. So I I encourage everyone get on to the consultation and put your feedbacks in. Thank you, Mayor.
>> Thank you, Council Tar. And I understand I'll be joining on that, Dormock.
>> Thank you.
>> Um Councelor Perah.
>> Uh yeah, I mean everything has really been said, but just a note on some of the connectivity concerns. Just a reminder that the integrated transport strategy is still out for consultation until Tuesday and next week. So that's another opportunity to view this project uh in the context of broader movement and place strategies that the council is working on because that strategy will help inform what comes after this project uh as we move forward across the next decade. So, it's important, I think, to read these two uh in conjunction with one another. Uh and also, yeah, just flag that there's two key activity centers that that this corridor connects and also lots of schools and other uh civic amenities.
So, I think it's a key corridor to uh improve and look forward to hearing everybody's feedback.
>> Would any other council like speak to motion? Councelor Lamb.
Thanks, Mayor. Firstly, I would like to um acknowledge and thank you um director Patrick Jet, director of infrastructure and Olivia Wright, the manager to work on this project. Um I would also um agree with all counselor's um comments.
um when we're doing community consultation that we will do a different way. It's a lot of way that we can connect and get a feedback from people um who come from diver and community background to have a say and understand where we going from and what we're going to do in the future and look for you know um comprehensive feedback.
Thank you. Thank you councelor Lamb and I think councilors have all spoken very well to this project. Um I am a supporter. I, you know, during my time doorn knockocking and hearing from the community, I heard overwhelmingly that, you know, Barkley Street needed to be resurfaced, um, reshed, but we are now presented with the opportunity to not only renew this important corridor like for like, but also, you know, increase its value to the community and what it contributes. Um, and like councils have me mentioned, please, this isn't the, you know, end all be all. So have your say and it will also form part of a larger conversation around how do we get across our city you know the city of Maong is one of the most I would say one of it's a fast growing community by 2050 our population will increase by 50,000 so we have to really start thinking about how we getting across and we need more sustainable modes of getting around our city whether it be walking corridors there be cycling corridors faster buses um so our integrated transport strategy looks looks at that. So, please um have your say. Um but yeah, it's it's definitely not being looked at in isolation. There there are larger conversations and and larger strategies um happening at the same time. I'll now put the motion to a vote.
>> Have you just agreeing with please cast a vote?
>> I declare the motion carried.
We'll now move to agenda item 10.2 Yavville level crossing removal. Um council's planning submission. I'll call for councelor to move a motion.
Councelor Thomas.
Thanks Mayor. Um that council one endorse the cover letter to the Victorian Infrastructure Delivery Authorities Vita Rail Consultation on Anderson Street Yaraveville level crossing removal proposal shown at attachment one. Two, request that Vita Rail pause further works on the Anderson Street level crossing removal proposal subject to a releasing all concept design options, assessments, and supporting technical analysis to enable council and the community to understand the constraints and impacts associated with the design. B releasing all documentation relating to the proposal to council and the community. C.
Following the release of the documentation referred to in B above, undertaking a further transparent consultation and engagement process with council and the community. D. Providing a comprehensive response outlining the basis for decisions made to remove the atgrade pedestrian crossing. E. Updating design options that include an atgrade pedestrian crossing and stairs underpass at Anderson Street. F releasing detailed designs that will enable council and the community to provide informed responses to the proposal. and and G providing an explanation on the Anderson Street level crossing removal project not being declared a standalone project under the major transport projects facilitation act 2009 and H assessing the options and potential outcomes on extending the project design in conjunction with the Spotswood project. Three, endorse the council submission to the VA rail consultation on Anderson Street Yavville level crossing removal proposal shown at attachment two. Four requests that the mayor write to the minister for planning, minister for transport infrastructure and VA director general providing a copy of council's letter and submission to the VA rail con consultation on Anderson Street Yaraveville level crossing removal proposal council's position. And five, invite representatives from Vita Rail and the level crossing removal project to attend a councilor strategic briefing to address the points address point two of this council resolution.
Thank you, Councelor Thomas. H can I get a counselor to second the motion?
Council Yi, um are there any questions or points of clarification?
>> Council Tari.
>> Yeah, I've just got a um question before I uh speak on the actual um report. I just wanted to ask if council is aware by uh of a um a notice on our local members social media regarding the Anderson street level crossing which is recently made in the last couple of hours.
>> No, >> did you want to highlight it?
>> Yeah, if you want I'm happy to read it out for the benefit of many community members here if that's okay with council. just it's not do with the I mean it's not directly addressing the the >> council to the time for that would be during um councelor question time um in terms of >> I think I think we might just seek some governance advice from Lucas around that uh cuz I know it's I think what you're it's I understand it's not a question about the report but it is about the subject of the report >> so um firstly we need a seconder for the motion Um and and and >> and then the mover and second to both speak to the motion first >> and then >> and then councilors can ask questions >> or speak to it.
>> Um >> it's not it's >> so it's not a question or point of clarification.
>> Okay. Um I will return um to you councelor Tari and in speaking to the motion um you can you can highlight.
Well, no, sorry, mayor. The mover and seconder need to speak to the motion first >> after they had spoken. So, yeah.
>> Would the move like to speak to the motion?
>> Sorry.
>> Council, >> um, well, it's rather an amendment. I wanted to ask if we can add another bullet point to one of the points. And just to clarify, this is an alternate motion, not the original, which we didn't mention at the beginning, but this is an alternate, not the officer recommendation. Just um to point four where it's got request that the mayor, right? Just wanted to ask if it would be okay for us to add in that the mayor well right call whatever reach out to our local MP Katie Hall for a meeting to share our community's concerns and also present our submission and discuss support for further consultation.
>> Sorry, sorry >> been moved and seconded that we can do that. Is that right?
>> Apologies. Uh yes, council. Once the once it's been uh seconded, you can't move an amendment to the motion.
>> The mover.
So just for clarification because the motion was seconded you can't basically um add an amendment the government's rules are specific on that matter.
>> Yeah. So if there aren't any other questions or points of clarification um I'll ask councelor Thomas speak to the motion.
>> Thank you. Um so uh I think this has been a slightly flawed project from the start. It had its life as an election commitment at the last Victorian state election and it's slowly morphed into a project that's caused quite a bit of anxiety and confusion within the community. Council officers have prepared an extensive response to the artist's impression of the changes that are proposed by the level crossing removal. This process was made difficult by the lack of information provided and the time frames allowed for feedback.
Councilors and senior officers only received a briefing on the proposal in the last couple of weeks.
There's no doubt that this is a difficult project. A muchloved village, a muchused train station and line that moves through the village, heritage buildings, a lack of space to expand, and irreversible impacts proposed on people who walk, cycle, scoot, and drive as a result of the proposal.
The so-called consultation process has also created much angst in the local community. A lack of transparency in documentation, assessment, development of the proposal, and technical studies.
The final design presented as an artist's impression, making it difficult to determine the full extent of the impact and instead of a co-design process, a mostly one-way process that was more informing than consulting and consultation sessions that were timelmited and somehow booked out when trying to book in. When the community asked for an additional crossing, the level crossing removal has given them much more, but not necessarily what they asked for.
Most recently, the move to include the Yaraveville project with the Spotswood project has caused further confusion.
As a result of this process undertaken by the level crossing removal council and the community have many unanswered questions and that is the um why the alternate the change recommendation has come out to to try and really highlight some of those questions. The project needs to be put on hold until these questions have been answered. The ministers for planning and transport infrastructure must intervene, put the project on hold, and ensure that council's questions are answered. Only then can we move to participate in a process we can trust, is transparent, and involves our community in meaningful conversations about any changes to their beloved village. Thanks.
>> Thank you, Councelor Thomas.
>> Councelor Yeni, would the would you like to speak to would you like the second?
I'd like to speak to the motion.
Um just briefly uh I guess I'd like to start off by thanking the uh level crossing authority who attended one of our briefing sessions uh last week I believe um to have a chat to us about this project and about the proposed design. Um there was a number of questions and issues that we raised as a um council cohort during that meeting and most importantly we uh shared the concerns of our community um and you know spoke to them about what had been raised with us um including the lack of adequate information uh transparency across the process. um the concerns around the lack of alternate options presented for community consideration which is um detailed in this alternate motion and also the lack of um consultation with council and traders around the closure of the Anderson Street um well of Anderson Street. Um so essentially what's being proposed today through this alternate motion is just our response based off you know the conversation we had but also what the community has fed through to us and um yeah we hope that you know the authority will come back and have a chat to us and hopefully we'll be able to progress further consultations with community.
>> Thank you councelor Yangi. Would any other council like to speak to the motion council to counc wants to get first. Okay, >> you did beat me to it. Um, yeah, I just want to add Yaravel is very successful village and in all the other level crossing removal projects. There are obviously been some teething um problems, but ultimately the projects result in more connectivity and really good ground level amenity.
Unfortunately, saying that the level cross the Yaraveville level crossing removal project is light on detail is incredibly generous. The community and the traders need a lot more information about how the project will interact with and improve the amenity of the village. Other level crossing removal projects also have enabled a large number of other project outcomes including active transport routes, playgrounds and workout areas along the corridors, station and village car parking and seamless atgrade pedestrian connectivity and urban greening. We want more we definitely want more trains absolutely um but this project needs to respond to our diversity of transport needs and contribute to the vibrant local precinct. The project feels halfbaked and it feels like this might be why information has not been particularly forthcoming. We're very keen for a much better process and a much better project.
>> Thank you, Councelor Pero. council to >> thank you may uh firstly I just want to thank our council officers for the considerable work that has gone into the detailed submission and recommendations and the submissions I identify important concerns related to accessibility connectivity heritage open space traders traffic parking and construction impacts I also want to thank um Ed Horton who is present here in the chamber tonight and the residents with whom and councelor Yingi had the pleasure of meeting earlier today. I appreciated the time they took to explain their concerns, share their local knowledge, and show us how the village operates in practice.
Listening directly to the residents reinforced for me that this is not just a simply a transport project. Yavville Village, as other councilors mentioned, is a unique heritage precinct, a business center, and an important community meeting place. Decisions made now could affect its character, accessibility, and connectivity for generations.
I support the object objective of improving safety at the crossing.
However, I do not believe the community has yet been provided with enough information to properly assess whether the current two part underpart two underpass proposal is the best possible solution. The council report acknowledges that insufficient information has been provided regarding options that appear to have been rejected including elevated rail, lowered rail and retaining a direct atgrade pedestrian crossing. Further work on traffic access and parking impacts is also still to is still being undertaken.
Uh that's why I support um councelor Thomas' uh motion asking vita rail to pause further works while the concept assessments technical reports and supporting documents are released. I think the community deserves a clear explanation of why the direct grade pedestrian crossing is proposed to be removed what alternatives were assessed what criteria applied and why those alternatives were rejected. We should also see updated options that properly examine retaining a direct at grade crossing and providing stair access alongside the proposed underpasses.
Detailed design should be released before contracts are awarded or irreversible commitments are made and not afterwards.
Uh accessibility is particularly important as I saw today. A person who cannot use stair should not have their independence determined entirely by whether a lift is operating. A design may technically comply with accessibility standards, but that does not necessarily make it the most practical, dignified or inclusive outcome for people with disability, older residents, parents with prams or others with limited mobility.
I, as mentioned earlier, I also acknowledge the public update from our local member Katie Hall on her socials today, who has advised that the level crossing removal project is committed to a further phase of community engagement beginning in in August. And if it's okay, I'd just like to read out her um statement.
>> That's fine.
>> So, so our member says, "Thank you to everyone who has engaged with my office on early designs for Anderson Street level crossing. We all love the village.
It's such a special and unique place and it's crucial we have the best possible best outcome possible. The crossing is dangerous, especially with the gates down for such considerable periods.
Following our discussions, I met with the level crossing protect team. They are reviewing all the feedback and questions from the community and traders.
I have requested and they have committed to a further phase of engagement with the community which will include publication of a technical report detailing what Alex RP has heard from the community, how that has influenced the design work and options considered for the Anderson Road underpass. They will conduct more community meetings, additional meetings with Marabanong City Council as well as trader and community groups. Uh it's important that questions are answered and technical information is outlined. And then she goes on to list the further information that's available on the project web page. So I acknowledge her statement. So uh thank you to our member. But um while I welcome that commitment, it also reinforces the importance of getting the sequence right. The technical report, supporting assessments, and revised designs should be released before the next round of consultation. Residents cannot provide informed feedback unless they can first see the evidence, understand the alternatives considered, and know the reasons behind the proposed designs.
We have the opportunity to get this right. Yaveville deserves a solution that improves safety without unnecessarily dividing the village, weakening accessibility, or diminishing what makes this precinct so special. So for those reasons I will be supporting the alternative motion tonight. Thank you.
>> Thank you councelor Tar. Uh would any other council like to speak to the motion?
>> Yep. Better because it is my ward isn't it? So it's probably a good good thing that I do speak and thank you so much to um the community for coming out today and as you can hear from uh counselors that we share we share your concerns, we share your pain and yeah we we do like we've got the same concerns as you do.
Um there's been insufficient I think so much of it has been said already but I will repeat because I think it's important that they hear it. Um there is insufficient information available to support this going ahead. Um you haven't been given the all the details. We haven't been given all of the details.
Um there's been you know and so no further progress should be going on with this project at all. We all need to see more options. We all need to see everything out there. Transparency is a really beautiful thing and we want that.
Um, and we want that for you as well. We want proper meaningful consultation for you as well. We want to them to explain why they do not want to include an atgrave pedestrian crossing that we all would like to see. Like we want that.
Why won't they do it? Why can't they do it? Nobody knows. I don't know why they won't be transparent about that. Um, and I think that's really really important that they do be transparent with it. Um, Yara is an incredible place. I also really am not happy with the demolition and what well destruction of homes and the businesses and um and I've I've had the privilege of actually you know visiting those places many times as well and I just don't I just don't think that they should be acquired or demolished at all. So I don't agree with that. And what else?
Oh, yep. And I'd love to know why the um Editton Street project was like connected to the Spotswood project as well. So there's a few things there that I'm really curious about as well and would like answers on, but as it stands, it needs to stop. There's insufficient information. We really want that um you know, at grade pedestrian crossing and we do share your concerns and we hope that we can make this better. Okay.
Thanks.
>> Thank you, councelor Mur. Would any other council like to speak to the motion?
Um, then I I'll probably say a few words that haven't, you know, already been said by other counselors. I just want to say, you know, thank you so much for coming here today. You being here is a testament to your active citizenship. I will say the AVO community is very passionate. Um, and that's what you know, council needs and it's great to hear know um the local member make those um statements. um it means that you know the advocacy is is is is paying off but from a council perspective you know I think we believe that it's inappropriate for any further work to occur on this project until you know relevant information um is made public and you know a project of this scale uh will have generational impact on the community of Yarl and you know must be undertaken to the highest standards um of transparency and with all the detail and depth and analysis um that the of that significance that it requires. So, no, just want to say thank you all for being here. I'll now put the motion.
Would you like to say anything, Council L? Um, I'll now put the motion to a vote.
I declare the motion carried.
We'll go to agenda item 10.3. Melbourne Airport Rail Stage One early um Tottenham station designs. [applause] I usually don't allow clapping but that was fine.
I call for council to move a motion.
Council Tari >> that council one endorse Marabalong City Council submission to the Melbourne airport rail stage one Mars one project in relation to the new Tottenham station early design shown at as attachment one to advocate to the Victorian government for the incorporation of council's position into the detailed design and delivery of the new I might just wait a few minutes while the gallery clears up.
>> Thank you guys. Thank you.
>> Drive safe, ride safe, walk safe.
>> Super.
>> Yes.
>> Scoot safe.
>> We'll just give it a couple of seconds for the gallery to empty.
>> And now it's just us. So, Yeah, go back. Start off from I'll start off all over again. Uh that council one endorsed Marabanong City Council submission to the Melbourne Airport Rail Stage 1 MS1 project in relation to the new Tottenham station early designs shown at attachment one. Number two, advocate to the Victorian government for the incorporation of council's position into the detailed design and delivery of the new Tottenham station, including the delivery of a highquality integrated station precinct that prioritizes active and public transport, provides safe and connected walking and cycling infrastructure, supports effective multimodal integration, including future bus service, and delivers strong urban design, placemaking, and environmentally sustainable outcomes. Three advocates to the Victorian government to incorporate into the design and deliver integrated bus and rail interchange facilities as part of the new Tottenham station project, including provisions for the future north, south, and east west bus services and seamless bus rail connectivity. and four notes that the submission at attachment one includes a request for the MS1 project to include the design and installation of a pedestrian operated signal on Sunshine Road at Aliwal Street in recognition of the challenges in providing bike infrastructure on Dempster Street and that a lower stress bike route along Aliwal Street is being explored as an alternative and this needs a safe crossing over Sunshine Road to access the station.
Thank you, councelor Tor. Um, can I can I call on a council to second the motion? Councelor Lamb, are there any questions or points of clarification?
Would the move like to speak to the motion?
>> Yeah, thanks Mayor. I strongly support this uh officer recommendation and council submission on the new Tottenham station. Council has advocated for many years on Tottenham station to be included within the Melbourne airport rail project. The existing station is outdated, isolated, and falls well short of the accessibility, safety, and amenity standards our community should reasonably expect. The proposed new station with accessible platforms, lift, stairs, and a new grade separated connection between Robert Street and Sunshine Road represents a major improvement and an important investment in Melbourne's West. However, we must make sure this project delivers more than just new platforms and an underpass. Tottenham should be become a genuinely integrated transport precinct that connects people safely to trains, buses, walking and cycling routes and the surrounding community. I also strongly support the proposed signalized pedestrian and cycling crossing at Aliwal Street. Dempster Street is a narrow and forms part of a heavy vehicle route. So a lower stress connection through Aliwal Street requires a safe crossing of Sunshine Road if it's going to provide a realistic route to the station. Safety and amenity must also be central to the design. The underpass and forcourt should be well lit, have clear sight lines, CCTV, passive surveillance, and sufficient activation so they do not become isolated or unsafe spaces. The submission also makes a strong case for accessible public toilets and for the station to be staffed or at least future proof to premium station status. It notes that Tottenham station serves approximately 394,000 passengers annually and sits within a long section of the rail corridor where there are no station toilet facilities. That is not only an amenity issue, it's it's an accessibility and equity issue. And finally, this project should provide quality landscaping, additional tree canopy, shade, water sensitive urban design, and attractive forcourts that create a genuine sense of arrival. So, I welcome this significant government investment. Um, thank you to our local member for all the advocacy that she has done and support the inclusion of Tottenham station, but because this is likely to be the station our community lives with for many decades, we should be ambitious about the outcome. So, I completely support the recommendation.
Thank you, Mayor.
>> Thank you, Council Try. Can I call um a second? I'd like to speak to the motion.
>> Yes. So very briefly, I think um the mover councelor Tiari already um give a lot of comprehens um comments on this project and I would like again thank you for staff for director MTOS planning and environment um and also Melissa best who's a senior project worker to uh working so hard to be to um um out provide an outcome with this um uh recommendation and I think it's important that you know we working together with the state government to make it better for the people live in the area not only just the local but people come from somewhere and going from there it's like a a transit um you know area to a different transport to go to you know they they're working so I really support that um project and that's recommendation Thank >> thank you councelor Lamb. Um would any other council like to speak to the motion?
>> Yeah, sure. Uh like um Tottenham like Yaraveville is very light on detail.
It's very concerning to see no indication of the rapid transit bus route from High Point to Tarnit. No bus stops, no future proofing. Also nothing for local buses to connect to this station which currently has no bus routes for local community to access their nearest station. Lots of people are very worried about how to move north to south across this train corridor given that this is the only place to cross uh in a 5 km stretch. Uh we need to be able to safely and efficiently move cars, pedestrians, bikes and other forms of micromobility.
Um, and at the moment the design looks very very compromised. I'm really disappointed that such little effort and consideration has gone into the design outcome for the local community. It's it's incredibly clear that this is a topdown driven project and an afterthought in the context of the airport rail project. That's just not good enough. Thank you to the staff for colleating the submission. It highlights a range of local priorities and speaks to the public realm amenity uplift required in the area.
The station needs activation, shops, toilets, and generous fourcourt spaces, a bus zone, playground spaces to the north, secure bike parking throughout.
It also needs a much safer crossing option for Sunshine Road, connecting community south of the tracks, but also connecting those to the north down to Hansen Reserve and Stony Creek.
It needs to be the type of project that brings confidence and pride. If Tottenham is part of the new housing activity center initiative, then there will needs to be civic and transport amenity to match. At the moment, the project offers very little confidence.
Hopefully, the Mars One team take on this very sensible advice in the submission. I mean, at the end of the day, it's not rocket science.
>> Thank you, councelor Pereira. Any other council like to speak to the motion?
>> Yeah, councelor.
>> Thank you. Um I agree with councelor Pereira there. Um and before I did forget to say thank you to uh Rory and the team as well with the level crossing and also thank you for this submission which is fantastic as well. So thank you.
>> Yeah. Any other council like to speak to the motion?
Um then I'll put the motion to a vote.
Councilors please cast your vote.
Council Lamb, I declare the motion code.
We'll now move to agenda item 10.4, creative west concept design. I call for councelor to move a motion.
Councelor Thomas.
that council 1 note community engagement between March 2026 and community co-design process during April and May 2026 that has informed the development of the creative west precinct concept design. Two, acknowledge the contribution of the Warandre elders throughout the project and during the recent codeesign process. Three, acknowledges acknowledge the contribution of the community voice group throughout the codeesign process.
Four, endorse the public release of the concept design shown at attachment one and note the progression of the project to the schematic design phase.
Thank you, councelor Thomas. Um, can I get a counselor to second the motion?
Councelor Yi, any questions or points of clarification?
Would the mover like to speak to the motion?
>> Um, yeah, I just say a few things. Um, you know, this is council's biggest infrastructure community infrastructure project by far. Um, and it's going to hopefully have an enormous impact on not just the sort of the local foot community or the wider Marabon community, but also, you know, the inner west community. um the combination of the um town park, the the updated library, and the really really fancy and lovely um performing arts area with the the um I've just forgotten. I've just been trying to flick I've just forgotten what what the um staging is called, but it's um it's special staging where you you know, you can sit around um the stage. So, there's not many of those um those kinds of theaters uh in Melbourne.
So this this will make um this um uh performing arts center I think one that um a lot of um at least progressive and contemporary um arts um organizations will want to use. There's al everybody knows there's been you know a long kind of very long consultation process to get us to this point. Um and it's great to see all those people in the um the community voice group who who have given their feedback and also the focus on um inviting Warjury elders to provide their input into what the project how the project should look as well and I think that's a really um key point um and it will make this a really an even more exciting and interesting and inclusive design. So, um, yes, it's going to go out for, um, consultation. So, um, jump online and tell us what you think.
Thanks.
>> Thank you, Councelor Thomas. The second I'd like to speak to the motion.
>> Uh, sure. Just a couple of words. Um, firstly to say thanks to our um, Marabon Council staff uh, who've been working so diligently and passionately on this project. Um, also to say that I'm really really excited about Creative West and as chair of Lead West, it would be remiss of me not to um, speak about what a significant region shaping cultural precinct slro this is for the region, but um, you know, obviously being centered in Footsay for um, Marabon community as well. Um given that we don't currently have any 500 seat performing theaters in the region let alone in our municipality um this will be an amazing thing for us and so I'm just really excited about you know this and um yeah we're going really hard and you know keen to get some support and get this off the ground. So um thanks to the teams and yeah just really keen for community to provide their input. We've had a lot of great um community uh members participate um particularly artists in the design process. It's it really has been a whole of community um I guess input into this. So um hopefully everybody's really proud of the uh the existing design and um yeah we can take it forward from here.
>> Thank you very much councelor Yi and you're doing a great job as chair at lead west. Uh any other council like to speak to the motion?
Um then I might reiterate some of um councelor's comments.
Creative West will cement Fusk as the creative heart of the west and it will drive economic and social opportunity by supporting creative industries, entrepreneurship and inclusive participation and you know integrated with broader citywide activation. the cultural precinct is a catalyst for urban renewal. Um, and when we look at, you know, where do we see the opportunities in the city of Melbourne? And I think it's our creative sector. Um, if you look at Footsquare, it's a melting pot of our languages, cultures, food, and creative west I believe will bring all of that to the surface and then some. With that being said, I'll put the motion to I declare the motion carried. We'll now move to agenda item 10.5.
Trinial arts partner funding recommendations. I call for council to move a motion.
Councelor Lamb.
Officer recommendation that council endorse the recommendation of the peer assessment panel shown in table one for trio art partner funding from the 1st of July 2026 to June 2029.
>> Thank you councelor Lamb. Can I get us um can I call for councelor second a motion? Councelor Pero.
Um, is there any questions or points of clarification?
Would the MO like to speak to the motion?
>> Thank you. Firstly, I would like to congratulating all the successful the applicant um received the funding um for the art project here. Art is very very important for our city. So um is it really I can say that you know a number of I mean we we don't get to every every single one because we don't have enough money to share but I think the from successful um applicant here and I'm sure they will provide project and do a great work for the city. So congratulation to them again. Thanks.
>> Thank you councelor Lamb. Um, would the second like speak to the motion?
>> Um, sure. Just to add that we're so lucky to have so many wonderful arts organizations. Uh, it's just a shame we can't give even more money to them. Uh, make sure you look at the extensive list and get along to all the local events and projects that that all of these groups and organizations are creating.
And if you do happen to have any money left over to donate, have a look at the list and consider supporting some great local producers.
>> Thank you, councelor Pero. Any other council like to speak to the motion?
Council Thomas.
>> Uh, thanks mayor. Um just something to note I think is council considers investment in the arts um like a really important investment and this year the budget for the tri trienal arts program was increased by just over 25%. So that allowed us to um support you know a little more um of the um the organizations that put in for funding.
Um, and I think that's particularly important this year when the um, Victorian um, arts I've forgotten what it's called, but it's the fund arts funding that comes from the state was reduced and one of um, our very long-term um, arts organization, Snuff Puppets, was impacted by that. So, it's really great to see that council has been able to continue to support them with this trienal arts um funding and hopefully that will uh go a long way to making sure that they're they've been around for 30 odd years that they will stay around for at least another three. Um there's some some uh names that you will know um in the list if you have a look at it. And there are also a couple of new names which is really great. And there's a really wide range from from dance to first nations uh works to more historical type um arts projects to cutting edge arts projects to youth projects. Um, so we're just so lucky to have all of these organizations operating in um, Marabanong and as councelor Pere said, if you can, I'd really encourage people to get along to some of the performances because you won't be disappointed. Thanks.
>> Thank you, councelor Thomas. Any other council like to speak to the motion?
That being said, I'll put the motion to vote. Councilors, please cast your vote.
I I declare the motion carried.
We'll now move to agenda item 10.6, live music advisory panel appointment. I call for council to move a motion. Council Council Thomas that council appoint the following promoters, programmers, venue owners, musicians, peak bodies, residents, and music industry professionals to the Marabanong live music advisory panel effective from 22nd of July 2026 to 30th of June 2028.
Fiona Duncan, Sheree Warrick, Cody Quinton, Justin Fenwick, Jerry Pune, Joshua Hodson Smith, Martin John Zacharov, Georgia Madden, Niko Faustst, Marcus Brooks Smith, Jude Fio, and Howard Nicholas.
>> Thank you, Councelor Thomas. Um, I call for councelor to second the motion.
Councelor Meredith, are there any questions or points of clarification?
Would the M would like to speak to the motion?
>> Uh just to say that this is another opportunity for uh members of the community to get involved in um you know and influence decision-m that happens at council. This is a um a highly um experienced group drawn right from the sector and once again um for 12 positions we had more than twice as many applications. So, uh it just goes to show how interested and um engaged our community is particularly in this issue which um the live music issue which is really important but really needs an injection of um adrenaline and life across the community I think and so hopefully um you know the panel will be able to sort of help to steer council's decision- making in this space. So congratulations everybody. Thank you, Councelor Thomas. I would the second I'd like to speak to the motion. Um, >> just briefly just to say congratulations to um all the new panel members and I'm sure that you're going to do a fantastic job. Thanks.
>> Amazing. Um, >> would any other council like to speak to the motion?
>> Very briefly, just to say congratulations to um yeah, to to the new members and also really thank them for their time. Um, you know, I always say, uh, the strength of our community is a result of our volunteers and without our, um, yeah, volunteers, you know, we wouldn't be the thriving community that we are. So, thanks to everybody.
>> Thank you, Council Yi. Any other council like to speak to the motion?
With that being said, I'll put the motion to to a vote. Councilors, please cast your vote.
I declare the motion carried. We move to agenda item 10.7 special rate and charge policy. I call for council to move a motion. Council Meredith.
>> Oh, I can do it. That council adopt the special raid and charges charge policy shown in at attachment one.
>> I call for council to second the motion.
Council Thomas, are there any questions or points of clarification?
Would the mover like to speak to the motion?
>> Formally moved.
>> Would the second like to speak to the motion?
>> Formally seconded.
>> Would any other council like to speak to the motion?
I'll put the motion to a vote.
Councilors, please cast your vote.
Um, councelor L.
I declare the motion carried. Move to agenda item 10.8, review of counselor gifts, benefits, and hospitality policy.
I call for council to move a motion.
Council motives >> that council adopt the councelor gifts, benefits, and hospitality policy shown at attachment one.
>> Call for council to second the motion.
Councelor Pero. Are there any questions or points for clarification?
Would the mover like to speak to the motion?
>> Formally moved.
>> With the second, I'd like to speak to the motion.
>> Formally seconded.
>> Would any other council like to speak to the motion? I'll put the motion to a vote. Counselor's cast a vote.
I declare the motion carried.
We move to agenda item 10.9 instruments of delegation annual review. I call for council to move a motion.
Council Thomas that council in the exercise of the powers conferred by section 111 of the local government act 2020. The act and other legislation referred to in the section five instrument of delegation to chief executive officer shown at attachment one resolves that a they be delegated to the members of council staff holding acting in or performing the duties of the position referred to in the attached draft S5 instrument of delegation to the chief executive officer the powers duties and functions set out in that instrument subject to the conditions and limitations specified in that instrument be The instrument comes into force immediately upon the common seal of council being affixed to the instrument. C. On the coming into force of the instrument, all previous delegations to the chief executive officer are revoked. And D. The duties and functions set out in the instrument must be performed and the powers set out in the instruments must be executed in accordance with any guidelines or policies of council that it may from time to time adopt. Two, in the exercise of powers conferred by the legislation referred to in the S6 instrument of delegation to members of council staff, as shown at attachment two, resolves that a they be delegated to the members of council staff holding, acting in, or performing the duties of the officers or positions referred to in the attached draft S6 instrument of delegation to members of council staff. The powers, duties, and functions set out in that instrument subject to the conditions and limitations specified in that instrument. B. The instruments come into force immediately upon the common seal of council being affixed to the instrument. C. On the coming into force of the instrument, all previous delegations to members of council staff other than the chief executive officer are revoked. And D, the duties and functions set out in the instrument must be performed and the powers set out in the instrument must be executed in accordance with any guidelines or policies of council that it may from time to time adopt. Three, in the exercise of the powers conver conferred by section 474 4372 of the Environment Protection Act 2017 and the instrument of delegation of the Environment Protection Authority under the act dated 4 June 2021 as shown at attachment 3 resolves that a be delegated to the members of council staff holding, acting in or performing the duties of the officers or positions referred to in the attached S18 draft instrument of subdelegation under the Environment Protection Act 2017 the powers, duties, and functions set out in that instrument subject to the conditions and limitations specified in that instrument. B the instrument comes into force immediately upon the common seal of council being affixed to the instrument. And C, the duties and functions set out in the instrument must be performed and the powers set out in the instruments must be executed in accordance with the any guidelines or policies of council that it may from time to time adopt. Four, in the exercise of the powers conferred by section 111 of the Local Government Act 2020, the act and other legislation referred to in the section 6 S6 instrument of delegation shown at attachment 4 resolves that a they be delegated to the members of council staff holding, acting in, or performing the duties of the position referred to in the attached draft S6 instrument of delegation to members of staff the powers, duties and functions set out in that instrument subject to the conditions and limitations specified in that instrument.
B. The instrument comes into force immediately upon the common seal of council being affixed to the instrument.
C. On the coming into force of the instrument, all previous delegations to the chief executive officer are revoked.
And D, the duties and functions set out in the instrument must be performed, and the powers set out in the instruments must be executed in accordance with any guidelines or policies of council that it may from time to time adopt.
[laughter] >> Well done, Councelor Thomas. Yeah.
>> Um, >> n done well. Yeah. Done. Well, uh, can I get a counselor to second the motion?
Councelor Meredith. Are there any questions or points of clarification?
The move I'd like to speak to the motion.
>> Formally moved.
>> The second I'd like to speak to the motion.
>> Formally seconded.
>> Would any other council like to speak to the motion? Uh, put the motion to a vote. Council cast a vote.
I declare the motion carried agenda the item 10.10 governance report June 2026. I'll call for council to move a motion.
Council Yeni >> that council note the June 2026 governance report to endorse the extension of the Footsquare park master plan advisory committee terms of reference shown at attachment one until 28th February 2027 to align with the conclusion of the Foots Park master plan project. and three endorse the extension of the following committee members to the Footsquare park advisory committee until 28 February 2027 to align with the conclusion of the Footsquare park master plan project. These are Jonathan Baker, Lloyd O'Hanlin, Ma Gangler, Joyce Watts and Anna Mastachic.
Um Ka council to second the motion.
Councelor Murdith. Any any questions or points of clarification?
Would the move like to speak to the motion?
>> Formally moved.
>> Second would like to speak to the motion.
>> Formally seconded.
>> Any other council like to speak to the motion? I'll put the motion to a vote.
Council Gy vote.
I declare the motion carried.
Agenda item 10.11 council support and expenses January to March 2026. I'll call for a council team of a motion. Council lamb.
The official recommendation that council not the counselor support an expenses report for the period of January 2026 to March 2026 shown at the attachment one to be made available via council's website for the term of council.
>> Um I call councel to second the motion.
Councelor Per any questions or points of clarification? Would the move like to speak to the motion?
>> Formally moved. Second. I'd like to speak to the motion.
>> Formally seconded.
>> Any other council like to speak to the motion? I'll put the motion to a vote.
Council has cast a vote.
Council has cast your vote. I declare the motion carried. We now move to notices of motion. We move to agenda item 11.1 notice of motion 2026- 11 bicycle networks give me five campaign. I'll call for councelor Bened Thomas to move her motion.
Thank you. Uh so the motion is that council one support the bicycle network's GI5 Victorian state election campaign that calls on the state government to allocate 5% of its transport budget to be invested in safer connected cycling infrastructure for 10 years. Note that the Metropolitan Transport Forum unanimously endorsed the Gimme5 campaign at its June 2026 committee meeting and three request that the mayor write to the bicycle network to advise of the following. A Maran on Council support of the Gimme Five campaign and B MAV consolidated motion C13 active transport 29 May 2026 which requests recurring and predictable funding for active transport infrastructure building on the congestion levy reinvestment precedent towards 20% of transport infrastructure funding.
>> Thank you councelor Thomas. Can I get council to second the motion?
Councelor Pereira.
Um are there any questions or points of clarification?
Um would the mover like to speak to the motion?
>> Um yeah, I just say a couple of things.
Um we've heard a couple of um about a couple of projects tonight that are bike related. The Barkley Street um works. Uh councelor Pereira mentioned the integrated transport strategy. Um there were a couple of questions earlier about um from the public about um bike infrastructure. Um and so we know that um uh improving bike infrastructure is important to this council and it's important to our community for the people who live here and ride around the community, the municipality, but also for people who ride through the municipality. Safety um when you're riding a bike is probably your number one key consideration.
Um and was also mentioned earlier tonight, councils um has joined with the MAV. We took the motion that's mentioned um as part of this motion uh to advocate for stable and long-term funding for active transport and bike infrastructure. So this campaign that um bicycle network has um created specifically this year for um to advocate to state government for because it's an election year is a really important addition to council's advocacy in this space and the 5% funding is asking uh specifically to be directed to the strategic cycling corridors which are um the government's own um uh bike corridors. Um it they're plans but they're yet to be adequately funded. Um and so that 5% funding sits nicely alongside council's own ad advocacy. It it signals to government that the community thinks that um their strategic that's really hard to say strategic cycling corridors um are important that they should be prioritized for funding and that they should be prioritized for funding adequately to to really um finish them off um in the sort of the short to medium term. Thanks.
Thank you, Councelor Thomas.
Um, would the second like to speak to the motion?
Uh there's not really much more to add because councelor Thomas said everything I think but only that this does align with previous motions that that our council and other council has taken to uh the MAV to for state government advocacy and also aligns with other advocacy that we're also doing at the federal level through ELGA. um that the strategic cycling corridors are the state government's projects and they are an important opportunity I think for for the state to help lead the way in this space and take some of the pressure off local council that's already trying to manage a lot of different things especially because in our context it lines up with other initiatives that are important including the housing activity centers and um and further development of the old Footsray hospital site. These routes will help people get around our city and I'm uh excited to see the bicycle network uh doing some work in this space.
>> Thank you, Councelor Pero. Would any other council like to speak to the motion?
>> Um councelor.
>> Yeah, thank you. Um, I want to begin by acknowledging that the intent behind this motion is a good one. Bicycle Network does important work advocating for safer cycling infrastructure, better connections, and improved conditions for people who ride.
I recognize the value of that work and I support increased and more predictable investment in active transport. However, while I support the intent, I believe that the motion before us is quite flawed and it needed to be more carefully thought through. My first concern is the inconsistency between the two funding positions in the motion. We are being asked to support bicycle network campaign for 5% of the state transport budget to be invested in cycling infrastructure. Yet the same motion refers to Marabanong's existing advocacy through MAV seeking recurring and predictable funding towards 20% transport infrastructure funding for active transport. So what exactly is council's position 5% or 20% or are we asking for 25%? I can't tell from the motion. Is the 5% intended to be an interim target or are we weakening the position? Council has already advanced.
The motion does not explain this and effective advocacy requires a clear and consistent request. My second concern is that the motion expressly asks council to support what it describes as a bicycle network's Victorian state election campaign. I'm not suggesting that the local government act necessarily prohibits council from supporting any external campaign. My concern is whether doing so is appropriate, necessary, and consistent with our governance responsibilities.
The local government act requires council to provide good governance for the benefit and well-being of its municipal community and to prioritize the best outcome for that community. In my view, those principles support council developing its own independent advocacy position based on Marabanon Council's needs and evidence rather than formally endorsing or supporting the election campaign of an external organization. Bicycle Network may do excellent work, but I do not believe this council chamber is appropriate forum for formally supporting a state election campaign. We should support the policy outcome through our own council position rather than attaching council to the campaign of one particular organization.
It also raises an important precedent. I think if we endorse Bicycle Network's campaign today, would we also endorse future campaigns from RSV, the public transport users association, pedestrian advoc advocacy groups, freight organizations or other industry and community bodies? Where would council draw the line and how would we apply the approach consistently? There is also an electrical compliance consideration. The VEC advis advises that material intended or likely to affect voting may be considered electoral material and depending on its form and content may require an authorization statement.
Because this motion expressly refers to a Victorian state election campaign, any public communications arising from it would need to be carefully reviewed by officers for compliance. I'm not suggesting at all that a breach would automatically occur. I'm saying that this is an additional governance and compliance issue that should have been properly considered before the motion was brought forward. The motion also lacks sufficient Marabanong specific justification. It does not clearly identify our local missing links, safety priorities or the projects that increased funding could deliver for our residents. Finally, if the purpose is genuine advocacy, why is the mayor only being asked to write to bicycle network rather than the premier, the relevant minister and local state representatives who actually make transport funding decisions? I support bicycle networks broader work. I support safer cycling infrastructure. I support increased and predictable investment in an active transport. But council should advocate through its own clear policy decision based on local evidence and directed to the responsible decision makers. For those reasons, while I support the intent, I cannot support this motion in its current form. Thanks, Mayor.
>> Um, before go to a right of reply, any other council like to speak to the motion?
>> Uh, yep. I think I'd like to tackle the five the difference between the 5% and the 20%. 5% is active transport, which is cycling. 20% sorry 5% is the cycling and then the 20% is the sort of broader sort of framework of that like so there's a difference between um like the the walking and the riding and so that that's why the percentages would be slightly different there I think Pat explained it at the beginning a little bit too about the um the differences with with that public question. So there was a public question that came up and that was um that you answered it in the public question. I won't put him on the spot there but it wasn't answered in the public question but and answered as the differences. Um yeah and I support Bicycle Network and the work that they do. Um there's been a lot of deaths on the on the roads um because of the fractured um disconnected networks and I know myself I've nearly been hit quite a few times going through Barclay Street and um and Hopkins. So, it's uh yeah, and I think it's really important to try and get these cycling networks right, and I'm sure a lot of people would be happier if it was right, too, because then they'd be off the foot paths.
[snorts] Anybody other council like to speak to the motion?
Um so I when this was first presented a couple of weeks ago I had raised a couple of queries and concerns about it.
Um, I think for me, I just want to perhaps start off by and clearly stating that um, I love the bicycle network and the work that they do and um, I support investment in cycling infrastructure and the development of safe connected bicycle networks across our municipality. Um, active transport is really important part of creating healthier and more sustainable communities. But the concerns that I raised a couple of weeks ago um are still the same concerns that I have now.
And that is um not objecting to improving cycling infrastructure, but rather around council endorsing or participating in a campaign led by an external advocacy organization and particularly when that campaign is actively promoted and or amplified by a political party during an election period. Um, I think that council has an important role in advocating directly for the needs of our community, but I just want to make sure that we're cautious about aligning ourselves with external campaigns that may be perceived as partisan or politically affiliated regardless of how worthy the underlying cause may be. Um, I think that council can continue to support better cycling outcomes through our own policies, strategies, and advocacy without formally associating ourselves with an election campaign run externally. Um, so these are, I guess, my concerns about supporting this uh campaign and um why I don't necessarily, yeah, want to put council in that position. Um, however, I would absolutely welcome the opportunity for council to work in collaboration with the bicycle network and or um, you know, welcome MAV to um, you know, continue advocating as council is a member of MAV um, through those channels. Just not sure about um, yeah, this instance.
>> Thank you to councelor Yi. Would any other council like to speak to the motion?
Um, do you have your right to reply?
>> Yeah, sure. Just a couple of things. Um, we should absolutely support other campaigns when organizations ask us to do if it aligns with our policy positions and if it's going to bring a hopefully a positive outcome for our communities. We're already a partner in a whole lot of um regional and other groupings. Sometimes they're council groupings, sometimes they have other um organizations as part of those groupings. Um and if we have um issues that we want others to support, of course we've got to be a good corporate citizen and a good community neighbor and um support other um campaigns or issues based um advocacy positions.
the and this campaign is directed at government. It's not directed at any specific party. It's directed at whoever's in government. And if it was after the election campaign, ahead of the next one, whoever's in government, it would be the same thing. So there's no party affiliation. It's it's clearly directed at the Victorian government.
The strategic cycling corridors are a Victorian government program. So there's no one else to advocate to to ask for the funding to um support the the um the the infrastructure that needs to go into that um uh getting the corridors up up and running. Um and finally, you know, as for we should only do things that are important to Marabanong. I mean, let's pull up the drawbridge and let's not let anybody in and anybody out or anybody through because that's what you're that's really what you're saying councelor Toari is that unless it's Marabadong specific 100% then we shouldn't do anything and I think that makes us a very poor that would make us a really poor neighbor um that our community would become insul uh if we weren't looking outside and joining with others to advocate on the issues that our community is asking us to advocate on and that they expect us to advocate on. Thanks.
>> Am I part two?
>> Yeah.
>> Yeah.
>> Okay.
This is an interesting one. Um cuz I can definitely see um where multiple counselors are coming from. Um I do believe advocacy is important and a lot of the times council doesn't necessarily need to be the lead advocacy um agency you know but at the same time um I'm a bit concerned by what councilors raised around um an election campaign. I'm not sure um exactly what that entails. Um but I don't think council should be getting involved in um any way regardless of how substantive that is.
One of advocacy priorities is a connected city.
Um, and I would ask if I can All right. What I'll do is I'll put the motion to I declare the motion carried.
We'll move to agenda item 11.2, notice of motion 2026-12, Little Anglr Kids and Wildlife Protection. I call for councelor Samantha Murdo to move her motion.
Cool. Thank you. Uh that council note community concern regarding fishing related harm to wildlife, including injuries caused by discarded fishing line, hooks, and tackle along waterways.
Two, note that Wildlife Victoria has reported a 158% increase in wildlife cases involving discarded fishing hooks and line between 2023 and 2025, and that's coinciding with the launch of Victoria Government's Little Anglr program. Note that the Victorian government is scheduled to distribute a further 82,500 little angller kits to grade five students in August 2026.
right to the Minister for Environment and Minister for Outdoor Recreation and the and the Minister for Water and the Victorian Fisheries Authority, Department of Energy and Environment and Climate Action requesting that the Victorian government suspend the roll out of the Little Angler kits in 2026 pending completion of the actions below.
A the Victorian Fisheries Authority undertake a review of the wildlife, waterway, wetland, and biodiversity impacts associated with the Little Anglr program and B require wildlife safe fishing education to be mandatory component of the little angller program, including in any future fishing youth education program.
Thank you, councelor Meredith. Can I call for councelor to second the motion?
Council Yi, are there any questions or points of clarification?
Would the mover like to speak to the motion?
>> Yes. Thank you.
The Victorian government's Little Anglr program provides free fishing kits to grade 5 students. The Victorian Fisheries Authorities states that 95,000 kits were distributed in 2023 2024 and that a further 82,500 kits are scheduled to be distributed in August 2026.
Each kit includes a fishing rod, reel with line, tackle box and hooks, lead free sinkers, swivels, and the law along with a little angller's guide to fishing. The publicly described education material for the kits describes how to use the equipment, knots, rigs, baits, fishing species and fishing locations, but the guide does not appear to include any specific information on wildlife protection, casting near wildlife, and safe disposal of fishing line hooks and tackle. This is a s this is a significant gap given the known risk of fishing related harm to native wildlife. Wildlife Victoria has reported 158% increase in wildlife cases involving discarded fishing line and hooks and that has been coinciding with the little angle program. Wildlife Victoria together with the community members are concerned that the Little Anglr program needs to be reviewed and it needs to be suspended, noting that of the reported increases.
Direct local concern along the Marabanong River relates to recent wildlife death. of immediate concern are the deaths of three black swans from the same family group which bred and raised their young in wetlands by the river light late late last year. One signate found entangled in fishing line and severely emancipated with a perforated eye was euthanized on the 28th of April.
A second signate and a female adult female swan adult swan were euthanized eight days apart on the 19th of May and 27th of May respectively. Both had fishing hooks embedded in their legs and were lame resulting from the infection.
On the 15th of June, a juvenile dusky mohamm was also rescued by a community member after becoming entangled in discarded fishing line. The bird was also unable to be rehabilitated and was euthanized.
On the 4th of July, a silver girl was discovered at Burnedup Park with a hook and line coming out of its neck.
Community members continue to find fishing line such as hooks, line, and sinkers on a daily basis. And the silver goal is we can't find that like no one can find that. So um the Marabanon Council has taken a proactive and swift approach by recognizing local community concerns and supporting stronger safeguards to reduce fishing related harm along our waterways.
This reflects council's commitment to protecting local wildlife and responding to avoidable risk in a practical way.
Some seal the loop boxes have been already been installed with further installations and signage planned. Um and I must say that I've yet, you know, I myself have gone there and checked and um the boxes are being used which is really good news and there has been less hooks and line found on the wall. So that's that's good. Uh the Marabanong River, its wetlands and connected biodiversity corridor support native birds, aquatic wildlife and provide important habitat. Discarded fishing line and hooks and tackle as well as casting near wildlife can cause serious injury and death. And hooks do not fall out of wildlife if they are in the legs.
I know that I've heard that before as well. Once the hook is in the leg, it stays there unless of it is removed. and often it's far too late and it's the infection has set in hence being euthanized. I would like to thank the Maranong River Wildlife Protection Group um for all of their wildlife protecting that that is going on there as well. So, thank you.
>> Thank you, Councelor Murdith. With the second, I'd like to speak to the motion.
>> Sure. Um, I want to start off and say that I am absolutely in support of this motion to pause the roll out of the Little Anglers fishing kits program until appropriate education awareness measures can be put in place. Um, and I just want to be clear that whilst I support fishing as a valuable recreational activity that brings families together, encourages time outdoors, and helps young people connect with nature, um, these opportunities come with responsibility to ensure that participants understand safe and environmentally responsible fishing practices. Um, in recent times, as councelor uh Meredith has mentioned, we've seen a significant rise in wildlife injuries and deaths along our river corridor as a result of discarded fishing line, hooks, and other fishing equipment. Birds and other native animals can become entangled, often suffering severe injuries or death. This is an issue that has been raised by community members and environmental volunteers alike. Um, if the government is to encourage more young people to take up fishing, then we must also ensure they are equipped with the knowledge to do so responsibly.
Education around the safe disposal of fishing line, protection of wildlife, and respect for the environment should be a fundamental component of any program that provides fishing equipment.
So, this motion is not about stopping the program. It's about getting it right. A short pause that allows proper educational resources and safeguards to be implemented will help ensure the program delivers positive outcomes for both participants and our natural environment. And that's why I support the motion.
>> Thank you, councelor Yeni. Um would any other council like to speak to the motion?
>> Uh thanks may I just wanted to thank councelor Meredith for bringing this thoughtful and practical motion. Fishing is an important recreational activity particularly for young people and families. But as councelor Meredith mentioned, it must be supported by proper education about protecting wildlife and safely disposing of fishing line hooks and tackle. The recent injuries and deaths of birds along the Marabanong River demonstrate that this is a real local issue, not simply a theoretical one. And even though it was quite graphic, I'm glad you read out the atrocities it's creating. Um, this motion takes a balanced approach. It does not oppose fishing or teaching children to fish. It asks for wildlife safe education to be included so young people can enjoy fishing responsibly while protecting our waterways and native animals. Well done, Council Merith. I'm pleased to support the motion.
>> Any other council like to speak to the motion?
um then I'll just say yeah it's a very well-ritten um motion and I know outside of this you do so much in you know working alongside the community um to ensure that the area you know is clean and um a lot of advocacy work behind the scenes from our deputy mayor. So um I'll put the motion to motion to a vote.
I declare the motion carried.
We'll now move on to councelor question time. Um councilors, are there any questions?
Um councelor Thomas.
>> Uh thanks. Um, so earlier this week there was an article in the age called thousands of trees missing in promised Westgate replanting program and it talked about the removal of trees during the in construction of the Westgate tunnel project um not being replaced as planned. So there were less trees replaced than removed or as allocated to be replaced. And the second thing that it mentioned was the increase in truck movements within the local streets through Epsom Road and Kensington Road as a result of the Westgate Tunnel project. So, I'm just um wondering if the uh CEO or one of the directors can um just let councilors know whether Marabanong has contacted the city of Melbourne in any way to sort of offer any advocacy support or provide any advocacy ideas given that some of those trucks may previously been running through the streets of Marabanong and um was Marabanong City Council promised any trees that haven't been delivered as part of the Westgate tunnel project.
And thank you council Thomas.
>> And who's your question directed at?
>> The CEO and then she can decide who should answer. Y.
>> Thank you councelor Thomas. Uh and just before I answer um councelor Lamb requires some IT assistance please.
Thank you.
Uh so councelor Thomas in regard to the um the promised trees um I have been advised that uh we have received confirmation and my staff have advised me that the Westgate tunnel project delivered all tree planting commitments required within the city of Maravan.
I can't speak for Hobson's Bay, but certainly here um we have we have got all our trees and um I'm not aware of any outstanding tree planting obligations within the municipality.
Um we do understand that we're project uh um challenges um to identify uh some suitable planting locations um and but and there was some issues at Hobson's Bay but they didn't affect the delivery of the required tree planting outcomes within Marabanong and uh our staff would be able to provide that more detailed advice if you would like that. Um and in regard to the city of Melbourne, um no officers uh are not aware of any formal engagement between Marabanong City Council and the city of Melbourne regarding advocacy support in relation um to that matter but um and council hasn't identified any specific advocacy advocacy undertaken jointly with the city of Melbourne. However, I will mention that the mayor and I will be meeting with the mayor of the Lord Mayor of Melbourne on Thursday at the M9 meeting and uh certainly if if the mayor wishes to and councilors would like him to, I'm sure he could raise that issue with the Lord Mayor.
>> Thank you. Thanks.
>> All right. Thank you, Council Thomas.
And um I have no issues doing that.
Go. Is there councilors? Are there any matters of urgent business to be discussed?
No.
Um, I call on a councelor to move a motion to close the meeting to members of the public in accordance with section 66 of the local government act 2020.
Council Thomas. Um, I call for council to second the motion.
Council Meredith. I'll put the motion to a vote.
Oh, raise your hands. Yep. I declare the motion carried. I declare the meeting closed to the public at 8:43 p.m.
And I asked anyone Heat.
[music] [music] Heat.
>> [music] [music] [music] [music] [music] [music] [music] [music] [music] [music] [music] [music] [music] [music] [music] [music] [music] [music] >> back up.
>> Yeah.
>> I advise that in accordance with the confidential resolution, no part of the report, all the resolution is to be released to the public. I declare the meeting closed at 8:48 p.m.
>> [music] [music] [music]
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