Parramatta City Council’s Community Newsletter

April – June 2016

A world-class vision for the future heart of Parramatta Square has been revealed, with an acclaimed consortium of architects announced as the winner of the design competition for Council’s landmark civic building, which will become the centrepiece of the $2 billion urban renewal project.

The cutting edge contemporary design by Paris-based firm, Manuelle Gautrand Architecture and Australian architects, Designlnc and Lacoste + Stevenson was chosen by a jury of expert judges. The 21st century building will have around 8,000sqm of floor space spread over six spacious storeys and will connect with Parramatta’s historic Town Hall. It will be

home to new Council Chambers, a ‘library of the future’ and customer contact centre, as well as community rooms, space for civic functions, exhibition and arts spaces, and a visitor experience centre. The building will feature a transparent glass facade incorporating LED projection screens that will enable it to be used as a canvas for artistic expression.

Council has endorsed the vision which will put Parramatta on the map as a must-see destination. Detailed plans for the building will now be drafted and placed on public exhibition as part of the Development Application process later this year. It is expected the building will be completed by 2019.

WINNING DESIGN REVEALS FUTURE LOOK OF PARRAMATTA SQUARE

A fast rail service connecting Parramatta with the proposed Badgerys Creek Airport and the Sydney CBD is a step closer to becoming a reality after Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull committed his government to investigating the construction of a line to the airport in time for its opening in 2026. The Prime Minister made the commitment just a week after Council and

the Sydney Business Chamber hosted more than 300 business leaders and decision-makers at a fast rail forum. A discussion paper detailing options for a fast rail service was presented at the March forum and speakers outlined the economic benefits such a service would bring for global Sydney.

Meanwhile, the future of the Western Sydney Light Rail network is clearer after the State Government confirmed key stops on the network. The 20 kilometre light rail service could include a total of 22 stops, with potential interchanges at Parramatta, Westmead, Camellia, Carlingford, Olympic Park and Strathfield.

Consultation on the exact routes will take place later this year. Construction is expected to begin in late 2018 or early 2019.

FAST RAIL ON THE FAST TRACK

A fast rail service is being considered.

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LORD MAYOR’S MESSAGE

Council’s Parramatta Square development is entering an exciting phase with plans unveiled in March for two iconic elements of the $2 billion urban renewal project. The Aspire Tower and Council’s civic building with be landmarks for our city and will help make Parramatta Square a world class place to live, work, study and play.

Demolition work at the site is well underway and on behalf of Council I apologise for any inconvenience people may experience during this stage of the project. The short-term pain will bring huge long-term gains for Parramatta and I thank people for their patience.

With Parramatta Square progressing and announcements from the State and Federal governments about the light rail network and a possible fast rail service for Parramatta, this is an exciting time for our city.

In this, the year of ‘Our Community’ Council is also working to foster a strong sense of neighbourhood throughout our LGA and we are moving forward with plans to establish ‘Community Hubs’ in our town centres to make it easier for residents to access Council services.

Recent reports have indicated the State Government is considering re-developing the Parramatta Pool site to facilitate the construction of Parramatta’s new $300 million stadium. Council remains committed to the future of the pool and is locked in discussions with the government on this issue.

One of the things that binds our community is a shared passion for our local sporting clubs and after a great season so far, I’d like to wish the Western Sydney Wanderers good luck as they head into the A-League finals this month in search of their first Championship.

Final designs for Walker Corporation’s Aspire tower have been revealed and the building promises to be a true landmark for Parramatta that will redefine the city’s skyline.

The planned 90-storey tower is set to become the tallest residential building ever constructed in NSW. It will be an iconic part of Council’s $2 billion Parramatta Square urban renewal project and will continue the transformation of Parramatta into a world-class CBD.

An independent jury selected renowned architectural firm Bates Smart as the winner of the design competition for the building. The successful design will be highly recognisable with a distinctive curve and will be clad in a bronze material referencing the sandstone buildings of Parramatta’s colonial past.

Demolition work on the existing buildings on Parramatta Square is well underway and it is expected that Walker Corporation will lodge a development application for the Aspire Residential Tower by June 2016, initially for a ‘stage one’ 70-storey building, pending approval to rise to 90 storeys from the Federal Civil Aviation Authority.

ASPIRE TOWER TAKES SHAPE

Councillor Paul Garrard

Who needs a beach when we have #lakeparramatta #westisbest #bewaredropbears @parracity

DEPUTY LORD MAYOR

With work moving ahead on Council’s landmark Riverbank project, it is exciting to see plans now taking shape for the transformation of our city’s waterfront into a $1.2 billion cultural and entertainment precinct. When complete, ‘Riverbank’ will be Parramatta’s playground, home to a mix of residential, dining and retail development, along with 10,000 square metres of open space, and the potential to become the cultural heart of Australia’s next great city. It will be a vibrant entertainment destination that will connect with, and

complement the $2 billion Parramatta Square business district.

Council has released for development the first parcel of property in the 20,000 square metre precinct, calling for Expressions of Interest from developers interested in building a state of the art mixed-use residential tower up to 74 storeys tall in the western section of the site. This area of Parramatta is prime real estate and I’m confident there will be strong interest from developers wanting to partner with Council on this exciting project. For too long our city has turned its back on the river and I take great pleasure in working with the Lord Mayor and our team to see the Parramatta River being returned to its rightful place at the heart of our communities.

Councillor Bakous Makari

3Thanks for the free parking @parracity Makes the day even better.

Council has dedicated 2016 in honour of ‘Our Community, The People We Serve.’ This involves a number of initiatives, including the creation of a Neighbourhoods Policy which is intended to increase Council’s connectivity with residents and businesses across the Parramatta LGA.

Since the closure of the Council Chambers earlier this year to make way for the next stage of the Parramatta Square development, Council has been conducting its regular public meetings at the Granville Town Hall. Over the coming months several meetings will be taken on the road, with meetings scheduled at Riverside Theatres (Monday 9 May), Ermington Community Hall (Monday 23 May) and Dundas Community Hall (Tuesday 14 June).

Council is also investigating options for the establishment of Community Hubs in town centres such as Granville, Epping and Westmead. These hubs are likely to be retail-style ‘shop fronts’ where residents will be able to access Council staff, services and information in a convenient, central location.

We are also calling on people to share their ideas for improving the Parramatta community via imaginemyplace.com.au

This is your community and we want you to help us make it a better place!

COUNCIL WORKING FOR OUR COMMUNITY

We are calling on residents, visitors and workers in Ermington to submit their ideas online for improving the suburb of Ermington. From water bubblers and safe road crossings to community gardens and bus shelters, no idea is too big or too small.

To get involved visit our unique online interactive website imaginemyplace.com.au and enter your details, answer some simple questions about your idea, then place your idea on the map!

Imagine Ermington will run from 11 April to 9 May. At the end of the project one of the ideas will be selected for realisation, with a $5,000 budget initially allocated.

The project is part of Council’s commitment to the Year of Community. Ermington has been selected as the trial suburb, and if successful the Imagine pilot will be rolled out to other areas.

IMAGINE ERMINGTON

MY NEIGHBOURHOODJoshua Tang from Dundas

Joshua, how long have you lived in Dundas? I’ve lived here my whole life – all 26 years.

What is your favourite thing about living in there?I love that it’s in the middle of just about everything. I can get anywhere I need to go and I can get just about anything without having to go into the Sydney CBD. Recently, I’ve taken a liking to the amazing cycle ways that connect Parramatta to Rhodes/Meadowbank and Olympic Park.

How has the area changed?Centenary Square in Parramatta has changed so much, it’s a really nice place to bring your family and many of the shops and restaurants are really good. The constant improvement of the cycle ways has also made it a lot safer and a lot more fun to cycle.

What services or improvements would you like to see in your local area?A train or tram that links Parramatta to Epping is the only thing missing. Once that’s in place, with the capability of doing more than one trip every hour, then Dundas will be absolutely perfect.

Council announced 2016 as the Year of the Community. What does this mean to you?I think it’s a time for the community to voice their needs to the Council and be heard, and I think that it’s a time where we can make substantial changes in the area for the better.

Do you have a strong sense of being part of a local community and why?In terms of community pride I’m proud to live in this area, I think it is a great place to live I think in general I feel very much a part of the local community.

Do you regularly attend any of Council’s community and annual events?Yes, I try to attend local Parramatta events when they are on. My favourite so far was the Parramatta Lanes festival (October 2015). The performing acts, the diversity of food trucks and other attractions was really great.

How important is it for you to have local access to events such as Sydney Festival?Being able to access such festivals and attractions in Parramatta is important for me as it means I can access these great events in my local community. Not to say that I wouldn’t go to these types of things if they weren’t in Parramatta, but it makes getting to these types of events very convenient.

Dundas resident Joshua Tang and his girlfriend Alice Zhu at the 1000 Bells installation, Sydney Festival 2016. Photo by Jamie Williams.

“Wish there was a picnic table here!”

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IS YOUR POOL REGISTERED, CERTIFIED AND SAFE?All properties with a swimming pool or spa pool sold or leased from 29 April 2016 will need a valid certificate of compliance or to certify that the pool area meets safety requirements or a relevant occupation certificate.

The following documents will be required to certify residential swimming pools:

(a) a valid certificate of compliance issued under the Swimming Pools Act 1992 or

(b) a relevant occupation certificate and evidence that the swimming pool is registered under the Swimming Pools Act 1992 or

(c) a valid certificate of non-compliance issued under the Swimming Pools Regulation 2008, valid for 12 months.

Failure to comply with pool safety requirements could incur fines of up to $5,500 and on-the-spot fines of $550.

Get your pool inspected today. For more information call Council on 9806 5050 or visit olg.nsw.gov.au > swimming pools and spas

Really great initiative going on with the Live Walls Project. Am loving it.

Centenary Square was transformed into an outdoor artists’ studio in March when the hoarding surrounding the Parramatta

Square development became a canvas for some of Australia’s leading street artists.

The artists commissioned for the project were Anthony Lister, Anya Brock, Guido Van Helten, James Jirat Patradoon, Sid Tapia, Georgia Hill, Aidan “Sprinkles” McKenzie, Phibs, Nico and Jumbo.

The diverse line-up of artists created new contemporary artworks on site.

Local schools also had an opportunity to watch the artists artwork as well as participate in tailored creative workshops.

All 10 artworks created as part of Live Walls will be auctioned, with proceeds going to support the important work provided by Parramatta Mission.

MARKETS BRING NEW ‘VIBES’ TO EAT STREET

Parramatta’s famous Eat Street was brought to life with specially-themed markets, live music, interactive workshops and kids’ activities each Saturday from 30 January to 2 April, as part of Council’s Eat Street Vibes.

The market series offered a great selection of unique handmade, craft, gift and homeware items from independent Australian sellers via. Themes included Valentine’s Day, recycled goods and Easter. Workshops included plaster painting, hoola hooping; street chalk art and flower crowns.

Eat Street closed to traffic between Phillip and Market Streets for the series which proved highly successful, with visitor numbers estimated at more than 600 each Saturday.

“Eat Street is a fantastic Parramatta drawcard and a vital asset for our city. This program is just one of many we are rolling out to energise the area and showcase the many delights on offer,” Lord Mayor of Parramatta Cr Paul Garrard said.

TEN ARTISTS PAINT LIVE IN CENTENARY SQUARE

Two passersby became the inspiration for artist Anthony Lister’s artwork.

PARRAMATTA POOLParramatta City Council welcomes the Baird Government’s decision to build a new $300m world-class sports stadium to service the entire Western Sydney region. However news that the Parramatta War Memorial Swimming Centre will be closed as part of the stadium upgrade has understandably caused concern for many members of our community, as it has for Council.

The good news is the Government has confirmed the pool will remain open for the summer 2016/17. Council regards the provision of swimming and recreation facilities as an extremely important part of the services we provide to the community and will work closely with the State Government to look at options for new swimming and recreation facilities to serve this growing city.

5Australia Day: Great performances and fireworks, especially enjoyed Antipodean Rock Collective.

LIBRARY VOLUNTEERS RECOGNISED

Council’s 83 Library volunteers were acknowledged for their valuable community service at a special ceremony held at Riverside Theatres in February.

The volunteers contribute to and provide a number of programs including multicultural talks and workshops; homework help for primary and high school students; English conversation classes; computer classes; job club; and technology help.

“This was an opportunity to thank them for their hard work and dedication and to let them know how much Council and the community appreciate their efforts,” Lord Mayor of Parramatta Cr Paul Garrard said.

Library volunteers were acknowledged for their commitment to community service.

FARMERS MARKETFridays, 8am-2pm | Centenary Square, Parramatta

Whether you are looking for a bite to eat at lunch or to stock up the pantry for the week, come down to the Farmers Markets at Centenary Square. Bringing high quality locally made and sourced food, fruit and veggies, here’s a small taste of what you can find:

• Courtney’s Brassiere • Goose on the Loose - jerky, pork crackling and salami• Juice Mia - fresh sugar cane juice• Kemps Creek Farms – locally sourced vegetables• Naked Foods - organic nuts, dried fruits and legumes• Noels Fruit Shed - Fresh fruit selection• Oktoberfest Bratwurst - German bratwurst BBQ• Pasticceria Bruni - savoury and sweet pastries• Porky’s Henhouse - pulled pork and other savoury delights• Shepard’s Bakehouse – bread, pastries, rolls and pies• Sofrido - Spanish paella• Summerland Honey – organic honey, soaps and spreads• Totally Free Range - free range chickens eggs and Goose

eggs on request• Wooton Valley Meat - fresh and smoked meats• Zerrins Evergreen - plants, succulents and terrariums

DID YOU KNOW? Council’s Home Support and Community Service, which celebrated 20 years of service in 2015, received 100% accreditation against the National Home Care Standards and National Disability Standards!

This is testament to the great work and high level of service it is doing to provide vital support to help improve the lives of people in need. For more information or to download a copy of their best practice book ‘Take Another Look’ visit parracity.nsw.gov.au/home_support

LAURIE FERGUSON WATER PLAYGROUND

The Lord Mayor of Parramatta Cr Paul Garrard unveils the plaque in honour of the Hon. Laurie Ferguson MP.

A free family fun day was held in February to celebrate the official naming of the Granville Park water playground in Merrylands.

The Laurie Ferguson Water Playground was named in honour of the Hon. Laurie Ferguson MP, who represented the area for 26 years as the State Member for Granville (1984-1990) and the Federal Member for Reid (1990-2010). He was re-elected following the 2009 electoral redistribution as the member for Werriwa (2010 and 2013).

The water park was the first of its kind in the local government area when it opened in 2014, and was a popular site for families escaping the heat this summer.

It is open everyday 9am to 8pm until the end of May.

6 Parramatta City Council always organises great events with free parking too! All councils should follow Parra Council’s lead!

Discover all that our great city has to offer with new City Discovery Tours. Parramatta’s Hosts & Guides is offering a range of tours for new Parramatta residents, workers and visitors. The

free tours are led by professional, energetic and knowledgeable guides, to help you discover what makes living and working in Parramatta such a unique and vibrant experience.

Learn about the rich mix of cultural, dining and entertainment, retail and leisure offerings, as well as Parramatta’s natural parklands and heritage significance.

These tours are access friendly and suitable for all ages. Bookings are required at least 48 hours prior to the nominated tour date. Maximum 12 people per group, waitlisting may apply.

To find out more about the City Discovery Tours email discoverparramatta@parracity.nsw.gov.au or phone 8839 3311, Monday to Sunday, 9am-5pm.

NEW TO THE AREA? GET TO KNOW YOUR CITY THE EASY WAY!

Discover what makes Parramatta unique and vibrant with free tours led by Council’s professional guides.

More than 8,000 people celebrated the East Asian cultural tradition of Lunar New Year in Centenary Square on Friday 19 February.

In addition to the popular traditional dragon and lion dance, the event hosted exciting performances by Korean, Vietnamese and Chinese dance and drumming groups, Sydney band AiAiAi, acrobatics from Dauntless Movement Crew and 2014 X-Factor winner Marlisa.

The selection of street food options were such a hit that many sold out well before the night’s end. Stalls included Tsuru and Mama Linh’s, Melbourne-based dessert experts Luxbite, Parramatta locals Kayter Co and a pop-up bar from Novotel Parramatta’s 350 Restaurant & Lounge.

Star of the evening – Curious George – brought a smile to the face of many children and Lunar Land proved very popular with children and adults alike who participated in interactive games such as Barrel of Monkeys, Mahjong and table tennis, and workshops in calligraphy, lantern and monkey mask making.

PARRAMATTA RINGS IN YEAR OF THE MONKEY

UPCOMING EVENTS

BURRAMATTA NAIDOCAs part of NAIDOC Week, which runs from 5-12 July, Council will be hosting its annual Burramatta family day celebration which will include live music and dance performances, a BBQ, kids’ workshops and activities and more! Details will be available in May. Visit discoverparramatta.com/NAIDOC

PARRAMATTA REMEMBERSAs part of Anzac Day, Council is presenting a range of free events and activities leading up to the commemorations on Monday 25 April. Visit parracity.nsw.gov.au/events/anzac for more details.

PARRAMATTA WINTERLIGHTEveryday Friday 1 – Sunday 17 July10am till late | Prince Alfred Square, ParramattaCome to Parramatta’s open-air skating wonderland and in addition to ice skating, treat yourself to amusement rides, and quality food at the alpine village area and wine bar. There’ll be children’s activities and workshops and ice shows during the evenings on weekends. More information will be available in May. Visit winterlight.com.au

7Lunar New Year: What a lovely showcase of the cultural richness and diversity that Parramatta has to offer.Parramatta City Council always organises great events with free parking too! All councils should follow Parra Council’s lead!

UPGRADES in your areaARTHUR PHILLIP WARD

• Prince Alfred Park, Parramatta: decorative lighting upgrade installed in December 2015. Part of a $100,000 project to improve the visual amenity and safety of the park.

• Church Street, between Fennel and Grose Streets, North Parramatta: proposed streetscape update. Council is currently consulting with affected business operators. Works are expected to commence in June.

• Westmead: projects include additional on-street parking, streetscape improvements and sensory garden. Due to commence in May.

CAROLINE CHISHOLM WARD

• Caroline Chisholm Park, Winston Hills: shade sails and new mature shade trees (Chinese Elm) will be installed to supplement existing landscaping in the playground adjacent to the tennis courts.

• Additional and replacement street trees project, Winston Hills: two rounds of planting in late 2016 to enhance the comfort and amenity through shade for pedestrians; screening unwanted views and reducing glare. Residents on affected streets will receive letters outlining further information.

• Keith Willis Reserve, Winston Hills: landscaping enhancement project. Community consultation will occur this month.

• A number of footpaths and kerb ramps will be delivered throughout the Ward. These improvements will provide safe pedestrian networks within the neighbourhoods and improved accessibility to people with a disability.

ELIZABETH MACARTHUR WARD

• Wigram Street, Harris Park: the streetscape upgrade of the

eastern side is in progress. This has included new kerb and gutter, foot pavement and street trees. Estimated completion in May.

• Rosella Park Harris Park: this upgrade follows on from extensive consultation. The works will include park enhancements, public amenity building and car park improvements. Works will commence this month.

• James Ruse Reserve, Parramatta: works to the barbecue facilities commence this month.

• New Settlers Reserve Park, Oatlands: new entry wall, improved pedestrian pathway to bus stop and additional park seating. Works commence this month.

LACHLAN MACQUARIE WARD

• Boronia Park, Epping: upgrade stage 1 - works include new exposed aggregate footpaths, a nature play area and upgraded toddler playground, a picnic area, landscaping, lighting and park furniture. Estimated completion in June.

• Rawson Street Car Park, Epping: new public toilet facility in progress. Works completed in March.

WOODVILLE WARD

• Russell Street, Granville: heritage streetscape upgrade. This project is currently in the Tender procurement period.

• Guildford Park, Guildford: major upgrade of amenities and facilities building. Concept design in development.

• Granville Park, Merrylands: upgrade of barbecue facility complete and installation of new exercise equipment to be delivered June.

• Ray Marshall Reserve, South Granville: installation of new perimeter fence around Fields 1 and 2. Project completed in March.

LOVE WHERE YOU LIVECouncil’s ‘Love Where You Live’ campaign ran from Monday 29 February until Sunday 10 April with two free Family Fun Days held at Rosella Park, Harris Park on 12 March and Belmore Park, North Parramatta on 2 April, to educate the community on how they can help prevent illegal dumping in their area and highlight the impact of these acts.

Last year around 2,600 occurrences of illegal dumping were reported across the Parramatta LGA. You can help reduce illegal dumping in the following ways:

• Put your rubbish out during Council’s free clean ups.• Report illegal dumpers on 1800 DUMPED (1800 386 733).

You may be eligible for a reward of up to $1,000.• Get help from waste management companies if you need

rubbish removed outside of the four clean-ups provided by Council. • SITA Waste and Recycling Centres can receive bulky waste

all year around. To find a centre near you, visit sita.com.au

or call 1300 651 116. Fees may apply.• Consider donating or selling your item before sending them

to landfill.

Further information visit parracity.nsw.gov.au/waste

A community member is shown how Council’s Glutton machine works.

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How to give your kids the worldBy Liane Morris | zenofbossy.com.au

The new family program from Riverside Theatres had me thinking about the value of theatre and live performance for kids. I have two boys aged 9 and 10 and we’re always looking for ways to entertain them that will broaden their minds. As parents we all want our kids to have a positive experience of the world and we want them to grow into well rounded, happy, successful people. There is so much reliance these days on screens as well as a real competitiveness in terms of academic and sporting achievements.

When I canvassed my friends on this subject the response was immediate and passionate. Overwhelmingly, they felt that theatrical experiences taught their kids about emotions, empathy, community and history. That attending live theatre was exciting, magical, engaging, uplifting and thrilling.

Live theatre has the ability to teach our kids about other cultures, to develop empathy of people and situations that are outside their current experience and to deepen their understanding of social issues. It also aids in concentration and memory, listening skills and vocabulary. And it’s fun.

Talk to the teachers at your school and encourage them to organise an excursion. There are often discounted tickets available to disadvantaged schools if cost is an issue. Explore the offerings at your local theatre; you’ll be surprised at what’s available.

And getting back to Riverside Theatres and their new family season, you will find a wide variety that will appeal to everyone of every age. The quality of the programming is completely comparable to anything you will find in any capital city of Australia, with shows by The Australian Ballet, Patch Theatre and Spare Parts Puppet Theatre to name just a few. And children with special needs are thoughtfully catered for with “relaxed performances”.

A quote by Albert Einstein is particularly relevant: “Imagination is more important than knowledge. For knowledge is limited to all we now know and understand, while imagination embraces the entire world, and all there ever will be to know and understand.”

Fire up your kid’s imagination this year and give them the world. For all the details about the Riverside Family program visit riversideparramatta.com.au/category/whats-on/family

Some nice examples of #placemaking in @parracity. I really like the art project to liven up construction site #livewalls.

WWI TOUCH TABLETo mark Anzac Day 2016, Council is publishing a booklet highlighting the actions of the Parramatta and District soldiers who served on the Turkish peninsula during WWI.

The booklet features personal accounts, letters and stories of some of those who sacrificed so much on the beaches and sandy cliffs of Gallipoli.

Digital copies will be available through the Parramatta Heritage Centre website. For more information visit arc.parracity.nsw.gov.au or call 8839 3322

The digital touch-table commemorating Parramatta soldiers and nurses in WWI has returned to the Heritage and Visitor Information Centre until May, after a year of travelling around local libraries and RSLs.

The touch-table’s return will provide the opportunity to add new entries and staff will be on hand to guide people through some of the hundreds of stories it contains.

WESTERN SYDNEY WRITERS EVENTS AT PARRAMATTA ARTISTS STUDIOS

Studio Stories presents a FREE monthly event of readings and open discussion showcasing Western Sydney writers at Parramatta Artists Studios.

Words from the West | Thursday 19 May | 6.30-8pmJoin Alice Pung and the recipients of The CAL WestWords Western Sydney Emerging Writers’ Fellowships; Sheila Pham, Maryam Azam and Peter Polites for a night of storytelling, conversation and provocation. A Sydney Writers’ Festival event, supported by WestWords.

Things I never told you | Thursday 28 July | 6.30-8pmJoin writers Randa Abdel-Fattah, Peta Murphy, Halee Isil Cosar and Jessicca Wendy Mensah for a night of stories about things that get left unsaid and things that should always be said out loud.

For more information visit facebook.com/studiostoriesparramatta

Western Sydney writers participate in an evening of conversation.

SPOTLIGHT ON Riverside Theatres

Anzac Beach, April 1915, Australian War Memorial, PS1488.

9What better way to celebrate #HarmonyDay but cycling into @parracity to be amongst the multiculturalism it has to offer. Favourite city.

WHAT’S ON at the LibraryParramatta City Library presents Head On Photo Festival Digital Exhibition | 29 April - 22 MaySelected exhibitions will include tasters of the Head On Awards 2016 (Portrait, Landscape, Mobile and Student Prizes) and a Best of the Festival 2016. Vote for your favourite People’s Choice award to win a $50 Coles Myer gift card.

The following events are free and bookings can be made online parracity.nsw.gov.au/library or contact Parramatta City Library for more information on 9806 5159:

How to research your house historyWednesday 20 April | 2-3pm | Bookings essential

Trove - how to find information on the databaseWednesday 20 April | 3-4pm | Bookings essential

Digital Library for Parents workshopThursday 21 April | 10-11.30am | Bookings essential

English Conversation Course interview for post-beginner and intermediateFriday 29 April | 10.30am-12pm

Job SearchWednesday 4 May | 10am-1pm | Bookings essential

English Conversation Course interview for beginners, post beginners and intermediateSaturday 7 May | 2-3pm

Meditation (in Hindi)Saturday 21 May | 11.30am-12.30pm

BRANCH LIBRARIES

Mother’s Day Storytime and Craft (ages 0-5 years)Tuesday 3 & Wednesday 4 May | 11am–12pm Constitution Hill Library Ph: 9806 5500

Technology Help SessionsWednesdays 4, 11, 18, 25 May | 10am-12pm Granville Library Ph: 9806 5851

Making the most of your Smart Device Monday 23 May | 11am–12pm |Bookings requiredErmington Library Ph: 9806 5869

Your Digital Library Information Session and Morning TeaFriday 27 May | 10.30am–11.30pm | Bookings requiredDundas Library Ph: 9806 5960

The first full summer of swimming at Lake Parramatta saw thousands of locals and visitors cooling down in the scenic waterway, picnicking and exploring the surrounds of Lake Parramatta Reserve. Lifeguards counted more than 12,000 people visiting the designated swimming area – with the Daily Telegraph calling it a ‘hidden gem’ in Sydney.

While lifeguards are no longer patrolling the lake, it remains open for swimming all year. We encourage all swimmers to take care and follow all the safety precautions. The lifeguard season will start again in late 2016.

If you have enjoyed the Lake as a swimming spot and want to see more swimming along the Parramatta River, you can vote for your preferred swimming location at ourlivingriver.com.au

THOUSANDS TAKE A SPLASH AT LAKE PARRAMATTA

TACKLING URBAN HEAT WITH COOL DESIGN BUS SHELTERS

Council recently invited the community to share their ideas for smart, low-cost and innovative climate-adapted bus shelters aimed at addressing urban heat in Western Sydney as part of the Climate Adapted People Shelter (CAPS) design competition.

Entrants are being encouraged to think of unique, smart and sustainable designs that respond to the challenge of urban heat, while taking into account commuter comfort.

Twenty-nine design teams have registered for the competition, with fifteen proposals expected to redesign the two nominated bus shelters in Westmead and Rosehill.

The next stage of the competition will see design teams attending a series of workshops where they will be able to share their insights and ideas, talk to a panel of experts and refine their designs.

Final designs are due Friday 3 June with the overall winning design built in late 2016. The public will be able to vote online for a People’s Choice award.

For more information on CAPS visit ulab.org.au/caps-climate-adapted-people-shelter

For more information on staying cool in Parramatta visit coolparramatta.com.au

10 Follow us on Facebook: Parramatta City Council, Discover Parramatta, Parramatta Heritage Centre

LIVEABLE PARRAMATTA

Parramatta City Council is celebrating World Environment Day on Sunday 5 June with a host of environmental activities from Monday 30 May to Sunday 5 June.

Join guided bushwalks, explore Parramatta Lake and local community gardens. Learn how to reduce food waste with cooking demonstrations, worm farm and compost workshops. Our sustainable living workshops will teach you how to reduce your footprint, save money and create what you need at home. Join us for environmental-themed movies at Riverside Theatre.

To book or find out more Council’s events calendar visit parracity.nsw.gov.au/events

WORLD ENVIRONMENT DAY

Students from schools across the Parramatta Local Government Area took part in this year’s annual Truck Art Competition, which has been has been running in conjunction with Council’s waste contractor Cleanaway since 2007.

The best three entries have been included in the artwork on the side of Council’s illegal dumping clean up truck: Parramatta Public School student, Bianca Ocampo who transformed plastic bottles into garden pet plant holders; Roman Ciereszko from Parramatta North Public School who re-used materials to make a recycling space craft; and a group entry from Noor Alkurdi, Melis Zabinoglu, Maddison Waerea and Tabith Wood of Rosehill Public School who created their own recycled selfie booth.

Rosehill Public School received an award for having the highest engagement in the competition this year and was presented with a $1,000 prize to help fund environmental initiatives at the school.

PARRAMATTA TRUCK ART COMPETITION 2015

From mid-April 2016, Parramatta City Council will be trialling a new book-in system for kerbside bulky household clean-ups. Residents will continue to receive four clean-ups per year, with three to remain scheduled on set dates and one to be pre-booked during 2016. In 2017 this will change to two scheduled

and two pre-booked clean ups. The pre-booked clean-ups will provide residents with the versatility and convenience to have collections at a time that suits them best. For more information about the new service, visit parracity.nsw.gov.au/waste or call Council’s Waste Hotline on 9806 5544.

NEW BOOK-IN SYSTEM FOR KERBSIDE CLEAN-UPS

A Mobile Community Recycling Service is now available to residents of Parramatta City Council, Auburn City Council and Holroyd City Council. The service provides a free and convenient way for residents to recycle or safely dispose of household problem wastes including gas bottles, fire extinguishers, paint, batteries, oils, fluoro lights and smoke detectors. This project is a NSW EPA Waste Less, Recycle More initiative funded through the Waste Levy.

For more information or to book a free pickup visit problemwaste.com.au or call Council’s Waste Hotline on 9806 5544.

NEW PROBLEM WASTE SERVICE FOR HOUSEHOLDS

Want to keep up to date with Council’s environmental and sustainable events and initiatives?Like our page on Facebook.com/liveableparramatta

World Environment Day. Photo by Jay La Photography.

The students received their award from 2016 Citizen of the Year Julie Hughes and proudly see their winning entries on Council’s truck artwork.

Paint

Smoke detectors Motor oils and other oils

Fluoro globes and tubes

Household and car batteries

Gas bottles and fire extinguishersYour new Mobile Community Recycling

Service is here!

Book a pick-up to remove problem waste from your home

We will pick up:

11Follow us on Twitter: @parracity Parramatta City Council, @discoverparra Discover Parramatta, @parralibrary Parramatta Library

GET INTO NATURE

MEALS ON WHEELSShop 3, 10 Hunter Street, ParramattaTel: 9635 5293

COUNCIL’S WASTE HOTLINE Tel: 9806 5544

Ermington Branch Library River Road, Ermington Tel: 9638 2270

Granville Branch Library 8 Carlton Street, Granville Tel: 9637 4270

Guildford Branch Library Railway Terrace, Guildford Tel: 9632 6744

Constitution Hill Branch Library 20 Hollis Street, Constitution Hill Tel: 9896 2201

PARRAMATTA HERITAGE & VISITORS INFORMATION CENTRE 346A Church Street, Parramatta(opposite Riverside Theatres)Tel: 8839 3300Fax: 9683 5608

COUNCIL SERVICESSWIMMING POOLSParramatta War Memorial Swimming Pool O’Connell Street, Parramatta Tel: 9630 3669 Granville Swimming Centre Enid Avenue, Granville Tel: 9637 1593

LIBRARIESParramatta City Library 1-3 Fitzwilliam Street, Parramatta Tel: 9806 5159

Dundas Valley Branch Library 21 Sturt Street, TelopeaTel: 9638 1146

PARRAMATTA CITY COUNCIL126 Church Street, ParramattaPO Box 32, Parramatta NSW 2124Telephone: 9806 5050Facsimile: 9806 5917Email: council@parracity.nsw.gov.auWebsite: parracity.nsw.gov.au

APRIL 2016Goin’ batty for bats Saturday 16 April | 5:30-7:30pmLake Parramatta Reserve, North ParramattaBring your torch and learn about these amazing creatures and what we can do to protect them. Suitable for families with children over 7 years of age.

Environment treasure huntFriday 22 April | 10-11.30amEdna Hunt Sanctuary, Epping Celebrate ‘Earth Day’. Explore the bush and uncover local natural treasures! Kids will embark on a hunt for environmental clues in their local bushland. Suitable for families with children over 7 years of age.

MAY 2016Walking lightly on land Saturday 7 May | 9-11amLake Parramatta Reserve, Nth ParramattaDiscover how the Darug people have cared for this country from the beginning of time. Learn how this is relevant in a modern urban environment and how you too can ‘walk lightly on land’. Suitable for families with children over 7 years of age.

Vineyard Creek BushwalkSaturday 14 May | 10am-12pmVineyard Creek Reserve, Telopea Discover local plants and animals on this relaxing guided bushwalk. Suitable for adults.

More than meets the eyeSaturday 21 May | 10am-12pmWategora Reserve, South Granville Kids will love this immersive walk where they will practice using all their senses to become more in tune with the bush and nature. Suitable for families with children over 7 years of age.

JUNE 2016Gumnut toddleWednesday 14 June | 10-11amThird Settlement Reserve, Winston Hills Bring your pre-schoolers for an easy stroll along a level track. Smell and feel the plants. Listen to the birds. Suitable for families with toddlers aged 3-5 years.

Duck River bushwalk Saturday 25 June 2016 | 2-4pmWategora Reserve, South GranvilleExplore the wonders of the Australian bush on this leisurely walk. Suitable for families with children over 7 years of age.

Sunday 31 July | 10am-1pmPonds Subiaco Reserve (along Kariwara Street), Dundas

Council is hosting a National Tree Day event and is calling on residents,

community groups, schools and businesses to help with planting 7,000 seedlings and saplings plants to protect, repair and conserve the creek line.

The reserve is an important wildlife corridor for the area’s native animals and birds and the event will help increase biodiversity and improve the habitat.

Council staff will be available during the day to provide information, tools and equipment for planting. Registered volunteers will also be provided a free BBQ lunch in appreciation of their efforts.

Sign up to this fantastic local conservation project! To register as a volunteer go to treeday.planetark.org

‘GROW HAPPY’ FOR NATIONAL TREE DAY

Registrations for these events are essential as places are strictly limited. To register for an event go to Council’s Event Calendar at parracity.nsw.gov.au or for more information call 9806 8280.

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Caroline CHiSHolM Ward

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Baulkham Hills

Winston Hills

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northmeadConstitution

HillPendle

Hill WentworthvilleWestmead

north Parramatta

Parramatta

oatlands

Telopea

Carlingford

epping

eastwood

dundas Valley

ermington

Melrose Park

rydalmere

dundas

Camellia

rosehill

Clyde

Granville

Merrylands

SouthGranville

Guildford

Chester Hill

Harris Park

Seven Hills

WoodVille Ward

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Ward

CONTACT YOUR COUNCILLORSThe Councillors’ Support Officer (phone 9806 5066) can put you in touch with the Councillors that represent your Ward. Alternatively you can contact them directly on the following numbers.

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Cr Lorraine Wearne 0416 035 817 lwearne@parracity.nsw.gov.au(IND)

Cr Pierre Esber 0414 190 204 pesber@parracity.nsw.gov.au(ALP)

Cr Jean Pierre Abood 0428 020 851 jabood@parracity.nsw.gov.au(LIB)

Cr Julia Finn 0414 190 202 jfinn@parracity.nsw.gov.au(ALP)

Cr Bakous MakariDeputy Lord Mayor 0428 024 484 bmakari@parracity.nsw.gov.au(LIB)

Cr Andrew Wilson 0414 190 205 andrewwilson@parracity.nsw.gov.au(IND)

Cr Shahadat Chowdhury 0469 441 272 schowdhury@parracity.nsw.gov.au(ALP)

Cr Bob Dwyer 0428 024 997 bdwyer@parracity.nsw.gov.au(LIB)

Cr Scott Lloyd 0414 730 254 slloyd@parracity.nsw.gov.au(LIB)

Cr Paul GarrardLord Mayor 0414 504 504 pgarrard@parracity.nsw.gov.au(IND)

Cr Glenn Elmore 0408 605 451 gelmore@parracity.nsw.gov.au(ALP)

Cr Steven Issa 0416 100 223 sissa@parracity.nsw.gov.au(LIB)

Cr John Chedid 0431 506 055 jchedid@parracity.nsw.gov.au(LIB)

Cr John Hugh 0428 017 928 jhugh@parracity.nsw.gov.au(LIB)

Cr James Shaw 0428 020 053 jshaw@parracity.nsw.gov.au(ALP)