FAITH AND COMMUNITY: VENERABLE THICH PHUOC TAN OAM
• CELEBRATING OUR COMMUNITY CHAMPIONS SHAPING FOOTSCRAY’S FUTURE
A MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR
Welcome to the Winter edition of Maribyrnong Messenger.
In this edition we celebrate our community’s local heroes from the 2026 Civic Awards. You can read more about our Citizen of the Year the Venerable Thich Phuoc Tan OAM on page 4, along with the rest of our heroes who make our municipality as vibrant as it is, on page 6.
Ahead of the dusk to dawn cat curfew starting from 1 July 2026, we have provided some useful information, on page 10, what you can do in the lead up to the curfew coming into effect.
For all olive oil enthusiasts, we have great news! Olives to Oil is returning from 31 May – so if you have olive trees and want to make olive oil, head to page 11. We are also on the cusp of a period of change for a number of areas in our community, and we want your input on pages 8 and 9. There’s the draft Footscray Structure Plan to help us create a vision for the future of the Footscray town centre, and we are reviewing aged services, and the Strategy for Children, Young People and their Families 2030.
Learn more about the next steps for Creative West – a co-located Footscray Library, 500-seat performance venue, and community park – on page 12. There is also a number of infrastructure wins to go through, starting on page 15, including an update on MAC’s Waterslide and Splash Park.
Please enjoy this jam-packed edition of the great things happening in Maribyrnong.
Councillor
Mohamed Semra
Mayor of the City of Maribyrnong
FOOTSCRAY WINTER WARMERS
TURN UP THE HEAT WITH COMFORTING EATS IN FOOTSCRAY
As the cooler weather settles in, the heart of Footscray remains lively. Venues continue to hum with energy, and the suburb continues to prove that the approach of winter is no reason to stay home. In fact, it is the perfect time to experience a precinct evolving through the ongoing Footscray revitalisation, with new operators adding fresh layers to an already renowned food scene.
The classics remain essential. At Sapa Hills, steaming bowls of pho draw a loyal crowd, while Ras Dashen invites diners to slow down over shared Ethiopian dishes. Tan Thanh Loi continues to serve quick, satisfying Vietnamese favourites, while Ebi Fine Foods sustains locals with fresh, delicious Japanese bento boxes on the outskirts. For something more immersive, Roha Ethiopian Bar & Restaurant offers depth of flavour and experience.
Daytime belongs to cafés. Rudimentary is a staple for long catch-ups, while West 48 and Footscray Milking Station keep brunch crowds satisfied. The Local Cafe keeps things simple with reliable coffee and an easy start.
But Footscray’s story is expanding. A new wave of hospitality operators is diversifying beyond its well-loved Vietnamese and Ethiopian roots. Venues like 2 Men Cafe, Crumbz Deli, Matsu, Ollie’s Deli, and Say Cheese are helping redefine the local offering, bringing new flavours and experiences that elevate Footscray’s foodie reputation.
As night falls, Mr West Bar & Bottle Shop, Hail Lilith, and Bar Josephine keep the energy alive. Add a visit to Footscray Market or a brisk walk through Footscray Park, and winter here feels anything but quiet.
To dive into more hidden gems in Footscray and across the City of Maribyrnong, visit: maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/loveyourwest
THE CLASSICS
Sapa Hills
Ras Dashen
Tan Thanh Loi
Ebi Fine Foods
Roha Ethiopian Bar & Restaurant
DAYTIME CAFÉS
Rudimentary
West 48
Footscray Milking Station
The Local Cafe
THE NEW WAVE
2 Men Cafe
Crumbz Deli
Matsu
Ollie's Deli
Say Cheese
NIGHTLIFE
Mr West Bar & Bottle Shop
Hail Lilith
Bar Josephine
ALSO WORTH A VISIT
Footscray Market
Footscray Park
FAITH AND COMMUNITY:
VENERABLE THICH PHUOC TAN OAM
When vocation and culture come together, it creates a community that thrives and improves all around it.
ORIGINALLY ARRIVING FROM VIETNAM AS A REFUGEE IN 1981, ONE MAN’S JOURNEY WITH FAITH HAS SEEN THE GROWTH AND CONSOLIDATION OF THE BUDDHIST COMMUNITY FROM BRAYBROOK AND BEYOND.
The Venerable Thich Phuoc Tan OAM is the Abbot of Quang Minh Temple, Chair of the Buddhist Council of Victoria, and as of last month, the 2026 Maribyrnong Citizen of the Year.
Originally from a devout Buddhist family, it was always his family’s intention for him to be brought up in a good Buddhist environment and to be able to further his journey to becoming a Buddhist monk.
“We could not find the right environment in Vietnam after the regime change, and the recruitment for young novices had stopped,” Venerable Tan said.
The only way to further his education was to move overseas. His time in Australia began with his primary, secondary and tertiary education in Sydney, and he was then ordained in 1996 as a Buddhist Monk. His first appointment was as public officer at the Maribyrnong congregation.
He got off to a flying start, as his first task was to host His Holiness The Dalai Lama’s visit in Melbourne as part of his 15-day Australian tour in September 1996.
It was an honour Venerable Tan got to repeat twice more – in 2011 and 2013 – during The Dalai Lama’s Australian visits.
The Buddhist congregation in the area has had a presence since 1980, and it was in 1989 they found a permanent home at their current Braybrook location.
With the first temple building completed in 1994, the temple’s physical footprint grew at the site over the following decades to match the growth in the congregation’s activities.
During the early days of his time in Maribyrnong, Venerable Tan said the congregation was bigger because at the time, this was the only Buddhist Temple in Australia.
“Slowly, more temples have been built, so we started to reduce our service to Melbourne’s west,” he said.
“Up to this point, there is around 20,000 Vietnamese Buddhists attached to this temple. And also, a number of emerging communities also come and use our facilities for their activities.”
Looking at his early years with the Quang Minh Temple, Venerable Tan said the Vietnamese community had been concentrated in Footscray, and very little in Sunshine or St Albans.
“To me, Footscray CBD is almost like capital city of Vietnamese community in Australia,” he said.
“But now, like any other community, slowly people moved further away from Footscray to the neighbouring suburbs.”
In his 30 years serving the local Buddhist – and neighbouring – communities, Venerable Tan said it was difficult to summarise all the good work that came from the temple and its congregants.
He said he owes a lot to other people, because everything they do at the temple, they do on a big scale.
For example, during the height of the COVID pandemic, congregation members made a lot of masks that were able to be given to community members and health services.
A highlight of the past five years included raising money for local hospitals, under the Western Health Foundation, which included purchasing a specialised camera for Joan Kirner Women’s and Children’s at Sunshine Hospital, to help nurses look after babies.
During COVID, the camera was widely used for families to be able to see their babies without having to visit the hospital.
“While I do make some contributions to a lot of the activities outside my congregation, I think I’m known for more of what the temple has achieved for the wider community,” he said.
Venerable Tan said that even in accepting this Citizen of the Year Award last month, he felt like a number of people were missing from the stage, because he could not do what he does for the community, without them.
Looking forward, Venerable Tan said the temple was looking to build another hall on their land, in a spot overlooking Maribyrnong River, to be an affordable place for community members to use on a large scale.
It plays into a core belief of Buddhism, which is to help alleviate suffering.
“Buddhism starts with suffering – but it’s not just about being sad about suffering, it’s about how we can look at it, and be freed of it,” Venerable Tan explained.
Maribyrnong, he said, is a wonderful place to practice Buddhism.
“People are proud to be Vietnamese here, a lot of cultural activity has been sponsored by Council. Those are the things that make the Vietnamese feel so comfortable. I feel so comfortable to live in this City and work in this City.”
CELEBRATING COMMUNITY CHAMPIONS WITH OUR CIVIC AWARDS
In March, we recognised community members that play an important role in helping make our City a great place to live, work, study and visit at the 2026 Civic Awards ceremony. From volunteers, community leaders and businesses, to those involved in sport, the arts and grassroots initiatives – it is this connection to community that is truly irreplaceable.
This year’s Civic Award winners reflect this spirit in action. Across every category, recipients have demonstrated leadership, generosity and a commitment to inclusion – creating opportunities, supporting those in need and strengthening the social fabric of our community.
CITIZEN OF THE YEAR AWARD
Venerable Thich Phuoc Tan OAM
Abbot of Quang Minh Temple in Braybrook, Venerable Thich Phuoc Tan OAM has dedicated decades to spiritual guidance, community service and humanitarian support. His leadership has mobilised significant fundraising for hospitals, disaster relief and community wellbeing initiatives, strengthening social cohesion through compassion and service.
LES TWENTYMAN YOUTH LEADERSHIP AWARD
Taihan Rahman
A dynamic young leader, Taihan Rahman has represented youth voices at local, state and national levels. Through advocacy, policy engagement and community initiatives, he has championed inclusion, safety and intercultural connection across Maribyrnong.
SARAH CARTER GENDER EQUITY AWARD
Amanda Thompson – Conversations That Matter
Amanda Thompson has created a powerful platform for advancing gender equity, women’s safety and financial independence. Through community forums and advocacy, she has fostered awareness, collaboration and meaningful change across the municipality.
COMMUNITY STRENGTHENING AWARD
Seddon Kingsville Yarraville (SKY) Community Group
For more than two decades, the SKY Community Group has brought people together through inclusive events and shared experiences. From carols to music festivals, their work has strengthened local identity, connection and community pride.
CONTRIBUTION TO BUSINESS COMMUNITY AWARD
Reveka Hurtado – Papelon
Through Papelon, Reveka Hurtado has created a vibrant space for cultural exchange and connection. Her leadership supports multicultural inclusion, local collaboration and community celebration, enriching the social fabric of Maribyrnong.
ACTIVE MARIBYRNONG SPORTING AWARD
Jason Evanson
A dedicated volunteer at Footscray Angliss Cricket Club Juniors, Jason Evanson has driven significant growth in junior participation while fostering an inclusive, family-friendly sporting environment.
CREATIVE MARIBYRNONG AWARD
Snuff Puppets
With more than three decades of creative practice, Snuff Puppets continues to deliver bold, accessible and community-driven performances. Their work engages audiences locally and globally, elevating Maribyrnong’s cultural profile.
LGBTIQA+ LEADERSHIP AWARD
Natalie Gresswell – Miniature Horde
Natalie Gresswell has created a safe, inclusive ‘third space’ for neurodiverse and LGBTQIA+ communities. Through collaboration and creativity, she fosters belonging, confidence and meaningful connection.
SUSTAINABILITY AND CLIMATE
LEADERSHIP AWARD
Climate Action Maribyrnong (CAM)
Climate Action Maribyrnong has empowered local residents to take meaningful climate action through advocacy, education and community engagement, strengthening environmental awareness and participation
MAYORAL AWARD
Leigh Leigh’s Charity
Founded by Lauren Philpot, Leigh Leigh’s Charity has brought the community together to raise awareness and funds for breast and ovarian cancer research. Through events such as the Mother’s Day Classic, the initiative has created a powerful legacy of hope, resilience and collective action.
MAYORAL AWARD
Imam Rabih Baytie – Maidstone Mosque
A respected community and faith leader, Imam Rabih Baytie has demonstrated a strong commitment to humanitarian support, interfaith understanding and community care, both locally and internationally.
SHAPING FOOTSCRAY’S FUTURE
WE’RE CREATING A FUTURE VISION FOR FOOTSCRAY’S TOWN CENTRE – AND WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU
Footscray town centre is changing, and is expected to grow by an additional 18,000 residents by 2051.
Footscray has also seen major changes with significant projects such as the new Footscray Hospital, Metro Tunnel, and the West Gate Tunnel.
This will mean substantial growth, development and investment over the coming years.
To help guide this growth and change in the next 10-15 years, Council is preparing a new Footscray Structure Plan.
The Structure Plan will set out a shared vision for the future and guide new planning controls, investment in public infrastructure and key directions for new development.
The first step in that journey is an Opportunities Paper that sets out big ideas and possible directions for how Footscray’s town centre could grow, change and improve over time.
Nothing is locked in and we are keen to test these ideas with you to help us shape the vision.
We are seeking community feedback on the Opportunities Paper. The Paper builds on the strengths of Footscray with big, transformative ideas, including:
– regenerating the heart of Footscray and creating a vibrant, multicultural, night-time economy
– greener streets, a new town park, and a new pedestrian plaza
– new apartment design standards to create sunnier streets and great places to live
– redevelopment of Council land to lead the revitalisation of the area
These ideas have been shaped by what we’ve heard from the community in the past, but they also aim to respond to changes happening in Footscray and to play to its strengths. We know residents care about things like safe streets, greener neighbourhoods, a walkable place, a strong economy, and the protection of Footscray’s heritage.
We are keen to understand:
– What you love about Footscray that we should protect or improve?
– What you think are the challenges facing Footscray?
– What you would like to see change in Footscray?
– Your thoughts on the ‘big ideas’ developed by Council. Join us at an event, take a survey or add your ideas to our online map at yourcityyourvoice.com.au/footscray Feedback closes midnight Sunday 28 June 2026.
HAVE YOUR SAY ABOUT HOW COUNCIL SUPPORTS
CHILDREN, YOUNG PEOPLE AND FAMILIES
We are halfway through our Strategy for Children, Young People and their Families 2030, so it’s the perfect time to check in.
A lot has changed since the Strategy began in 2019, and we want to make sure we are responding to what our community needs today – and into the future.
We know everyone’s experience with Council services, spaces and programs is different, and those experiences can change over time. That is why your voice matters.
We want to hear about what you experience every day, including: – help children and young people feel safe, supported and included – make family life easier in our community
– build on what it already does well – do things better, differently or more of – support children, young people and families in the future
We are especially keen to hear directly from children and young people, so we
have included some questions just for them, as well as questions for parents, carers and families.
Your feedback, along with data and expert advice, will help shape Council’s priorities and actions moving forward. Find out about upcoming in-person events and share your thoughts online by midnight Sunday 28 June 2026 at yourcityyourvoice.com.au/children
SUPPORTING OUR COMMUNITY’S OLDER RESIDENTS INTO THE FUTURE
We are committed to supporting older people in our community, and we want to keep doing this in the best way possible.
From July 2027, changes by the Federal Government will affect how aged care services are delivered across the country. This means some of the services Council currently provides will change. Currently, Council supports older residents in a range of ways. Some services are fully funded by Council, such as Senior Citizens Centres, recreation and fitness programs, Seniors Week activities, community transport, and help to navigate the aged care system.
We also deliver services partly funded by the Federal Government through the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP), which includes:
– home delivered meals
– home maintenance
– social support programs
A key part of the changes being implemented by the Federal Government includes the decisionmaking around who can access aged care services, the types of support people require and the level of support needed which will be determined by an independent assessment body outside of Council. Council will still be here to support older
residents, but our role may look different. That is why we are reviewing our services and planning now – so we can continue to meet the needs of older people in our community. We want to know:
– What is the best use of Council’s resources in supporting the wellbeing of older people across our whole City?
– What role should Council play in supporting older residents in the future?
Your feedback will help shape how we support our community moving forward. Share your thoughts and ideas, and learn about upcoming in-person events before midnight Sunday 28 June 2026 at yourcityyourvoice.com.au/seniors
NEW CAT CURFEW IN MARIBYRNONG
Following extensive community consultation, Council has endorsed the introduction of a cat curfew from 1 July 2026 . The curfew will apply every day from 7pm to 7am and cats must be kept indoors or within a secure enclosure during these hours.
This change may take some adjustment for both cats and their owners, especially for cats that are used to roaming at night. Keeping cats safely contained has important benefits for their health and wellbeing. Cats that roam are at greater risk of traffic accidents, fights with other animals, disease, and
becoming lost. Research shows that cats that live safely at home often live longer, healthier lives.
The curfew will help protect local wildlife. Cats are natural hunters and can harm native birds and small animals. Keeping cats home at night reduces this harm, when many native animals are most active. If your cat enjoys spending time outdoors, there are still ways they can do this safely. Options such as enclosed outdoor spaces, cat-proof fencing, or supervised time outside can allow your cat to explore while remaining safe and compliant with the curfew.
HOW TO TRANSITION YOUR CAT INDOORS AT DUSK
Cats do best with routine, experts recommend matching mealtimes to when you want them indoors and be consistent and patient. Calming products like treats can help during the first few nights. With patience and a steady routine, both you and your cat will settle into an overnight curfew comfortably.
1. Setting up the curfew
You can start training your cat to come inside at dusk and stay indoors until morning by changing up your feeding routine. A hungry cat is easier to call inside, so save the evening meal until they are indoors. Keep your cat inside until dawn, then offer breakfast before letting them outside again. Avoid leaving dry food outside.
2. Adjusting to the new routine
Your cat may be restless for a week or two at the start of this new routine. It’s okay to close your bedroom door or temporarily confine your cat to one part of the house overnight. This is safe and helps your cat learn that nights are for sleeping or playing quietly alone.
3. Making nights comfortable
Make sure your cat has access to litter, fresh water, and a few special toys only for night-time. Automatic feeders can give a small early-morning meal, so your cat doesn’t wake you at sunrise. Interactive toys or food puzzles can keep them busy while you sleep.
4. Understanding your cat
Every cat is different, so some may take longer to adjust. A safe and warm environment makes it easier for your cat to stay inside.
You can learn more about the curfew and find helpful resources at maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/cat-curfew
ENVIRONMENT
OLIVES TO OIL
TURNING BACKYARD OLIVES INTO SOMETHING SPECIAL
Maribyrnong residents are invited to take part in the 2026 Olives to Oil Westside program on Sunday 31 May at McNish ‘Dinosaur Park’ Reserve in Yarraville.
Olive trees are a familiar sight in streets and backyards, but turning the fruit into oil isn’t always easy and often goes to waste. This initiative makes it simple. Harvest your olives, drop them off at an agreed time, and a few months later, collect your oil.
Our partner CERES takes care of the pressing, bringing together olives from across Melbourne/Naarm and turning them into something you can enjoy at home. It’s a small act of community that delivers something truly delicious. Maribyrnong residents can participate for free if dropping off a small quantity (under 20 kilograms). For larger quantities,
ALL THINGS BINS, SORTED
Council offers a free app for residents that makes managing waste and recycling easier than ever. With the app, you can quickly check your bin day, you can also look up household items to see where they can be recycled, helping reduce landfill and support local recycling programs. The app offers plenty of other useful features to help you stay on top of recycling and waste services in the area. It is available for both Apple and Android devices. Simply search for “Maribyrnong Bins and Recycling” on the App Store or Google Play to download it and start using it today.
residents will need to pay a small fee to help cover pressing costs. Booking a drop-off is essential, as there is a limited capacity, and proof of address is needed at drop-off.
Once the olives are pressed, the oil is available at the Olives to Oils Festival Pick-up Day, hosted at the Burnside Community Centre in Melton on Saturday 18 July. The festival is a fun day out for all ages and will include kids’ activities, My Smart Garden demonstrations and of course olive oil tastings and sales. Everyone is welcome. You can book a free ticket to attend this event, even if you haven’t dropped off olives.
Olives to Oil is an annual event run by CERES, in partnership with My Smart Garden councils – Brimbank, Hobsons Bay, Maribyrnong and Melton.
For more information, visit maribyrnong.vic.org.au/olives
PLASTIC FREE JULY COMMUNITY LAUNCH
FRIDAY 3 JULY, 2-4PM CIVIC
PRECINCT AND COMMUNITY HUB
61 NAPIER STREET, FOOTSCRAY
Kick-start the Plastic Free July Challenge at this family-friendly launch event. Join creative reuse workshops, browse stalls from local community groups, and enjoy plastic-free light refreshments.
THE FUTURE OF CREATIVE WEST
Creative West is now in its design and planning phase. The feedback received during the community conversation earlier this year is currently being incorporated into the concept design to ensure it meets the expectations and needs of the community.
The Australian Government has provided $5 million funding, matched by Council, to support the design of Creative West.
The precinct brings together a library, performing arts venue and town park in Footscray’s thriving and welcoming civic heart. It will be a ‘home base’ that strengthens community life, renews the day and night-time economy, and positions Footscray as a gateway to the creative west.
YOUR VOICE, YOUR VISION
Community Engagement ran over five weeks in early 2026, building on previous engagement work, with over 890 responses collected through surveys, ideas, drawings and votes both online and in person. In addition, 129 people from across the community – including traders, creatives, community groups, and locals of diverse backgrounds, ages and abilities – took part in 19 focus groups to uncover rich conversations and ideas.
In-person engagement events included Get a Taste of Creative West, which activated the existing Footscray Library into a thriving space filled with dance, circus, food, and community connection. A taste of things to come for Footscray.
A number of themes emerged as community priorities, including:
– inclusive and welcoming civic space
– affordable and accessible spaces that support making, rehearsal and performance
– safety and comfort, day and night
– a green and shady outdoor public space – a ‘living room’ for the CBD
– learning, making and knowledge exchange opportunities
– cultural identity, representation and genuine inclusion
– precinct integration with the wider Footscray CBD
– flexible and adaptable spaces that can shift and respond to need
The extensive community feedback has been captured in the Community Engagement Report, now available on Your City Your Voice.
Be the first to know of any updates and events for Creative West by following the page. www.yourcityyourvoice.com.au/cw
RECOGNISING CR CUC LAM’S SERVICE TO THE COMMUNITY
Cr Cuc Lam’s service to the community of Maribyrnong was recognised with a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the General Division earlier this year.
Having served four terms as a Councillor, including two terms as Mayor (2017-2018 and 2023-2024), Cr Lam has introduced numerous activities that promote a sense of belonging and connection within the City of Maribyrnong.
Cr Lam’s path to civic leadership is closely tied to the local multicultural communities of Maribyrnong.
Arriving in Australia as a refugee in 1978 from Vietnam, she draws on lived experience to create fairness, inclusion and equity in the lives of many others.
CITIZENSHIP CEREMONIES CELEBRATE ‘A MILLION STORIES’ DURING REFUGEE WEEK
This celebration recognises new citizens and creates a sense belonging in the community. Thousands of people have taken the Citizenship pledge in Maribyrnong.
CITIZENSHIP CEREMONIES
Citizenship Ceremonies are conducted at the Civic Precinct and Community Hub from January to November. This June, the Refugee Week theme ‘A Million Stories’ highlights the unique journeys of people arriving to Australia.
Acknowledging the experiences of being a refugee helps to raise awareness about the journey to citizenship for a brighter, secure and hopeful future.
WHEN WILL YOU BE INVITED TO ATTEND A CEREMONY?
To enquire about the date for your citizenship ceremony you must contact the Department of Home Affairs by phoning 131 881 between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday except public holidays.
Find out more about the ceremony dates at maribyrnong. vic.gov.au/citizenship
Her story is unique, yet is part millions of other refugees that have helped shape modern Australia.
Refugee Week this June is a way to help raise awareness of issues affecting refugees and highlights the multicultural backgrounds that make up our community.
Cr Lam’s priorities for this term include advocating for affordable social housing and green spaces. Her service extends beyond Council through a range of advisory roles as well as supporting initiatives that strengthen belonging, equity and participation.
ACCESS GUIDES NOW ONLINE FOR AN INCLUSIVE EXPERIENCE
Access guides are now available on our website for a more accessible experience when visiting Council sites.
People with disability are an integral part of the City of Maribyrnong’s proudly diverse community, which is why we’re committed to promoting fairness, inclusion and equality as part our Disability Action Plan 2022-26.
To support our community, Council has created access guides – documents detailing the accessibility features of a venue to help visitors prepare – for the Civic Precinct and Community Hub, Maribyrnong Aquatic Centre, and Braybrook, Maidstone and Maribyrnong Community.
These are now available on our website to view and download so our community can easily understand information about attending Council buildings. View the access guides at maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/ accessguides
INFRASTRUCTURE UPDATE
IN OUR CITY
Playgrounds are an important part of our City, providing places for young people to move, learn, make friends and of course play!
In Maribyrnong we manage and safety check 64 playgrounds including facilities at 19 childcare centres. Each playground is safety checked every month to make sure our community is able to have fun safely.
During these checks, we are looking for hazards, areas that might need
maintenance and looking ahead at which playgrounds may need new equipment in the next few years. We are currently looking to replace aging equipment at playgrounds in Maribyrnong, Braybrook, Maidstone and Yarraville over the next two years and we’ll be sharing more information about the works once we lock in the upcoming budget.
Find all our playgrounds and plan your visit at maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/ playground
CLEANING UP OUR CITY
We’ve been working hard to keep our City clean with targeted improvements, increased cleaning and graffiti removal in the Footscray CBD alongside our normal cleaning programs.
We also secured a $160,000 grant as part of the State Government’s Multicultural Business Precinct Revitalisation Program to support improvements in Footscray’s Nicholson Street precinct. This will support continued revitalisation works to make our City more welcoming, improve business outcomes and grow Footscray as a place to eat, shop and explore. You can support our work by reporting graffiti on public property, or areas that need extra love, through My Maribyrnong. We also offer Graffiti Removal Vouchers when graffiti is on private property.
COUNCIL LEADS THE WAY FOR A GREENER AND MORE ACCESSIBLE SPACE FOR THE LOVE OF PLAY! PLAYGROUNDS
Council’s Civic Precinct and Community Hub has been awarded 6 Star Green Star certification for its sustainability.
The Green Building Council of Australia’s highest rating available is 6 Stars, representing World Leadership in design for a healthier, greener and more accessible building.
A solar system generates electricity throughout the building and a large rainwater tank reuses water, minimising wastage. Together, these features help protect our environment and leave more resources available for everyday community use.
Other features include:
– better air circulation and safer air quality
– an eco-friendly design, powered by renewables
Learn more about our cleaning programs or apply for a graffiti removal voucher at maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/graffiti
– biodiverse green spaces to promote wellbeing and enhance our environment.
Conscious, sustainable and accessible design allows us to lead the way for future generations to enjoy the many benefits of our City.
Find out more about our sustainability efforts at maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/ environment
BREAKING GROUND
PROGRESS ON MAJOR PROJECTS
In the last four months we’ve been progressing major works at Shorten Reserve, RecWest and the Splash Park at Maribyrnong Aquatic Centre.
RecWest is entering Stage 2 with our contractor beginning work on the detailed design of the new building before beginning construction.
Work on the Splash Park is progressing with footings and inground services now underway as we prepare for more exciting works towards the end of the year.
We’ve also awarded the contract for the restoration of Thomson Water Gardens at Footscray Park. This project will repair the ponds and arbours, bringing this area of the park to life. These multi-million dollar projects are supporting facilities for our community to enjoy for years to come.
Read more about these projects at maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/projects
TREES FOR OUR FUTURE
As part of our target to increase tree cover in Maribyrnong to 20 per cent, we have a series of community planting days planned with our fantastic Friends of groups.
These community led organisations help us take care of the parks and natural spaces that our community love.
Last year we secured a Healthy Cities Landcare Grant, through a Landcare Australia and Bupa partnership, to plant 14,000 native plants in our natural areas.
These plants are ready to be planted at volunteer planting days throughout our City!
Head to our webpage to find a planting day near you and be part of this great program.
Read more and sign up to participate at maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/plantingday
WANT MORE REGULAR UPDATES ON OUR MAJOR PROJECTS?
Scan the code to sign up for our monthly eNewsletter Maribyrnong News. maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/news
ILZA
A TASTE OF JAPAN IN SEDDON
Since opening its doors in February, ILZA has been delighting diners with a fresh and playful take on Japanese cuisine. Founded by friends Hyangwon Seo, Jihoon Lim, Hangyul Oh (Han) and Eunsil Kim (Erin), the venue reflects their shared vision to create something fun, welcoming and a little unexpected in the local dining scene. The team has curated a menu that blends traditional Japanese flavours with modern café favourites. Signature dishes like the salmon aburi don, cheese hamburger curry udon and
beef steak don have quickly become customer favourites. At its heart, ILZA Seddon is about more than just food. The space has been thoughtfully designed to feel warm and inviting, offering a relaxed setting where friends, couples and families can gather and enjoy a meal together. With its unique take on a Japanese homemade café experience and a strong sense of community, ILZA Seddon is already carving out a name as a go to destination in the west.
105a Victoria Street, Seddon ilza.com.au
For requests, comments and questions about Council services and programs, go to maribyrnong.vic.gov.au or call Customer Service on 9688 0200.
Disclaimer: Although all due care has been taken in the preparation of the Maribyrnong Messenger and its contents, Maribyrnong City Council does not accept any liability for any statement, opinions, errors or ommissions contained herein. Fees quoted are subject to change without notice. Event details are subject to change without notice. All information has been collected according to privacy information guidelines.
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HOW TO CONTACT YOUR
COUNCILLOR
BURNDAP WARD
CR MOHAMED SEMRA
MAYOR
E: cr.semra@maribyrnong.vic.gov.au
Ph: 0423 778 507
BLUESTONE WARD
CR PRADEEP TIWARI
E: cr.tiwari@maribyrnong.vic.gov.au
Ph: 0423 887 493
BRAYBROOK WARD
CR CUC LAM
E: cr.lam@maribyrnong.vic.gov.au
Ph: 0429 383 099
RIVER WARD
CR SUSAN YENGI
E: cr.yengi@maribyrnong.vic.gov.au
Ph: 0423 769 995
SALTWATER WARD
CR SAMANTHA MEREDITH DEPUTY MAYOR
E: cr.meredith@maribyrnong.vic.gov.au
Ph: 0423 761 560
SHEOAK WARD
CR BERNADETTE THOMAS
E: cr.thomas@maribyrnong.vic.gov.au
Ph: 0407 599 698
WATTLE WARD
CR ELENA PEREYRA
E: cr.pereyra@maribyrnong.vic.gov.au
Ph: 0423 836 555
You can also write to your Ward Councillor: c/- Maribyrnong City Council, PO Box 58, West Footscray 3012. If you don’t know who your Ward Councillor is, please contact Customer Service on 9688 0200.
MARIBYRNONG CITY COUNCIL
Postal Address: PO Box 58, West Footscray, Victoria 3012
Phone: 9688 0200 Fax: 9687 7793
After Hours/Emergency: 9688 0200
Email: email@maribyrnong.vic.gov.au Website: maribyrnong.vic.gov.au
TIS: 131 450
NRS: 133 677 OR 1300 555 727 www.relayservice.com.au