VOL 3 ISSUE 1 MARCH – APRIL 2009

The heart of St George

Cr Vince Badalati Mayor of HurSTville CiTy CounCil

Hurstville celebrates Chinese New Year 2009Page 4

Council recognises local volunteersPage 5

Council’s e-green efforts not wasted Page 9

Council supports fight against prostate cancer

Hurstville City newsISSN 0725 6418

Hurstville City Council has donated $35,000 to the Prostate Cancer Institute at St George Hospital.

Mayor of Hurstville, Councillor Vince Badalati presented the Director of Cancer Services at St George Hospital, Professor John Kearsley with a cheque for $35,000, which was raised at the annual Mayoral Golf Day late last year.

Two hundred and twenty local golfers came together to participate in the charity event, aimed at helping improve cancer treatment for community members.

Given the prevailing financial climate, the strong support the golfers demonstrated was testament to their great generosity.

Unfortunately, the incidence and mortality rate from prostate cancer in Australian men rivals the rate of breast cancer in women.

The Institute provides patients with the most sophisticated range of treatment options in Australia and its work is crucial in reducing prostate cancer mortality rates.

Council thanks the Mayoral Golf Day Organising Committee and Lugarno and St George-Hurstville Lions for all of their hard work in making this charity event a resounding success.

Mayor’s MessageThe people of Hurstville City have responded to the recent horrific Victorian bushfires with great sorrow.

As the personal stories have unfolded, a devastating picture of loss has been revealed.

Our community has responded to the disaster by providing both financial and practical assistance.

Whether it is through pledging money, giving blood, or donating clothing, toys and household supplies, I am pleased that the people of Hurstville City are doing what they can to help.

Hurstville City Council has also thrown its support behind bushfire-affected Australians by holding a number of fundraisers.

Staff raised inexcess of $3,000 for bushfire victims through a morning tea and luncheon whilst an additional $1,100 was raised through an impromptu collection at a Business Leader’ Dinner which Council recently hosted for our local decision-makers.

Further to this, Council has also pledged inexcess of $25,000, bringing the total donated by Hurstville City Council to $30,000.

Mayor of Hurstville, Cr Vince Badalati presents St George Hospital Director of Cancer Services, Professor John Kearsley, with a $35,000 cheque for the Prostate Cancer Institute.

PAGE 2

Hurstville Council celebrates our great local Australians

caring approach to assisting community and Club members and contributed a significant amount of personal time to helping the Club achieve its aims in the community.

He manages the Club’s publicity and photography, has held a number of leadership roles and has also provided mentoring support for new Lions Club branches.

Mr Walker has been a key organiser of a range of community and internal Club events including Christmas carols, Jazz in the Park and the Lugarno Spring Festival.

Young Citizen of the Year Award – Chelsea Sandys-SilakivaiNominated by her grandmother, Beryl Segers

Chelsea, a Year 1 student at St Declan’s Catholic School, in Penshurst, demonstrated great bravery and initiative after her mother Sasha Segers collapsed from a mystery illness when she was only four-years-old. Chelsea was able to calmly phone her father at work and look after her

Hurstville City Council hosted its annual Australia Day Awards on 22 January 2009.

Many special guests attended the evening, including Hurstville’s Australia Day Ambassador, Ron Delezio; as well as Federal Member for Banks, Daryl Melham; His Worship the Mayor of Canterbury, Councillor Robert Furolo MP, Member for Lakemba; and St George Hospital’s Director of Cancer Care, Professor John Kearsley, representing the Prostate Cancer Institute, with his wife Philippa.

Mayor of Hurstville, Councillor Vince Badalati announced the Hurstville Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year, Young Sportsperson of the Year and Achievement Award winners.

The winners were:

Citizen of the Year Award – Robert WalkerNominated by the Lions Club of Lugarno

Since joining the Lions Club of Lugarno in 1995, Bob has demonstrated an enthusiastic and

sister Charlotte until the ambulance arrived. Her courage was also recognised with a NSW Premier’s Award for Bravery in September 2008.

Young Sportsperson of the Year Award – Sean RussoNominated by Georges River College – Oatley Senior Campus

The determination and character of this 17-year-old Georges River College student have enabled him to swim competitively at a very high standard. His exhaustive list of achievements include competing at the National Schools Carnival in 2006 and the Pacific Schools Games in 2005 and 2008. Sean has participated successfully in many other competitions including the Australian Short Course Championships and Combined High Schools Swimming Championships. He is also well-respected for his modest, personable and respectful manner.

Achievement Award – Caitlin GratsounasNominated by Peakhurst Amateur Swimming Club

This talented 15-year-old sportswoman excels in the field of competitive swimming and has won multiple awards at district, metropolitan and state level. Along with her raft of swimming achievements, Caitlin competes in netball, cross-country running and javelin, and was also recently selected for her school’s rowing squad. She is noted for displaying integrity and leadership in sport.

Achievement Award – Anthony RistevskiNominated by Hurstville Rotary Club

Anthony, a 14-year-old Georges River College student, has made an outstanding contribution to local sport while maintaining a strong academic performance. He has competed in cricket, swimming, soccer and karate since he was a young child, and consistently demonstrates perseverance, commitment and loyalty to team mates. He has also managed a hectic school schedule to achieve outstanding results. Anthony is well-mannered, enthusiastic and conscientious.

Australia Day Ambassador Ron Delezio (third from left) and Mayor of Hurstville, Councillor Vince Badalati congratulate Australia Day award winners (L-R) Caitlin Gratsounas, Anthony Ristevski, Chelsea Sandys-Silakivai, Robert Walker and Sean Russo.

Hurstville City Council is leading the way in community safety by teaming with local police and fire authorities to conduct regular safety inspections of bars, clubs and other entertainment venues.

Council is conducting mandatory fire, building and liquor safety inspections on places of public entertainment (POPEs) in partnership with licensing police and the NSW Fire Brigades.

In the past, safety audits have been carried out with little

PAGE 3

consultation between Council and the relevant authorities.

Typically, Council’s fire safety officer, a NSW Police licensing sergeant and a superintendent from the NSW Fire Brigades conduct separate inspections.

Under Council’s new partnership, the three agencies undertake regular random inspections together.

Other Sydney councils are now looking to replicate Hurstville City Council’s approach to inspecting

Council highly commended for venue inspection partnership

entertainment venues in their local government areas.

Licensed premises are typically utilised by large groups of young adults who are often unfamiliar with the venues.

The highest level of fire safety and venue management must be provided to protect people in bars and clubs in Hurstville.

Council, NSW Police and NSW Fire Brigades are committed to carrying out regular inspections to enforce liquor, building and fire safety laws.

Hurstville City Council is holding its Free Tree Giveaway day at Mortdale Memorial Park on Sunday, 19 April 2009 between 9.00am and 3.00pm.

The annual Council initiative encourages local residents to help enhance the natural environment by planting native trees within the Hurstville local government area.

The free plants are grown locally from indigenous tree seeds collected in Hurstville City.

To receive two free native trees, local residents simply need to present their rate notice on the day.

2009 Free Tree Giveaway

Volunteers will also conduct information sessions on waste and recycling and St George Central Rotary Club will provide a free barbecue.

Limited parking is available on Boundary Road, Oxford Street and Martin Place, Mortdale.

Arrangements can be made to deliver trees to elderly residents or people with physical disabilities.

For more information, telephone Council on 9330 6222.

Traffic and access changes on King Georges Road during rail construction

The Kingsgrove to Revesby Quadruplication (K2RQ) project will provide two additional tracks between Kingsgrove and Revesby, to separate local and express services operating on the East Hills train line.

The project is part of the NSW Government’s Rail Clearways program, aimed at improving capacity and reliability on the CityRail network.

To provide for new rail tracks, significant modifications will be made to the bridge over the railway line at Beverly Hills, King Georges Road, with construction to commence in March 2009.

While the works are underway, King Georges Road traffic will reduce to three northbound and two southbound lanes for approximately eight months.

To ensure smooth traffic flow on King Georges Road, a number of temporary access changes will be made to Tooronga Terrace, Morgan Street, Stoney Creek Road, Gloucester Road and Edgbaston Road at Beverly Hills.

For more information telephone 1800 684 490, email mail@tidc.nsw.gov.au or visit www.tidc.nsw.gov.au. For urgent enquiries contact the 24 hour Construction Response Line on 1800 775 465.

Community members will have the chance to choose from a broad selection of native trees and shrubs at the 2009 Free Tree Giveaway.

The winnersThe winners

PAGE 4

One lucky festival-goer, Quan Phuong Lam of Mortdale, won a fabulous return trip to Hong Kong, with a second festival-goer, Le Hue Cai of Barden Ridge, winning a $500 Westfield – Hurstville shopping voucher.

Hurstville Groceries was the proud winner of Council’s inaugural Shop Front Decorating Competition. Second prize was won by Sign-A-Rama and third prize went to Y & H Photo Art.

Hurstville celebrates Chinese New Year Hurstville celebrates Chinese New Year Hurstville City Council kicked off a month of Chinese New Year celebrations with a spectacular Street Festival in Forest Road on Saturday, 17 January 2009.

Mayor Badalati officially opened the celebrations, which were attended by a number of special guests, including Federal Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry and Federal Member for Watson, the Hon Tony Burke, MP and Chinese Deputy Consul-General Her Excellency Madam Yanduan Li.

Platinum Sponsor the Commonwealth Bank of Australia joined Council in celebrating this popular festival, along with the St George Asian Business Association and the Chinese Australian Service Society.

Unprecedented crowds of 40,000 people from all across Sydney attended the Street Festival, to herald in the Year of the Ox.

People of all ages and from all cultural backgrounds came together to enjoy the live entertainment, free kids’ activities and food and market stalls along Forest Road.

There were more than 50 food, market and information stalls on the day and performances by the Australia Yau Kung Mun Dragon and Lion Dancing Group, pop diva Winnie Cai and emerging stars from China’s popular televised music quest New Talent.

The event also gave businesses in the Hurstville CBD the opportunity to showcase their products and services.

Thank you to the generous sponsors of 2009 Hurstville Chinese New Year:

Platinum Sponsor Commonwealth Bank of AustraliaGold Sponsor Hong Kong Economic and Trade OfficeSilver Sponsors TVBA, Virgin Atlantic and Medibank PrivateSpecial Bronze Sponsors NRMA and Western Union Money TransferBronze Sponsors St George Bank, Bank of China, NAB and Ritz Hotel – HurstvilleMedia Partners Channel Nine News, Australian New Express Daily and St George and Sutherland Shire LeaderSupporters Cosmopolitan Hotel Hong Kong, Disneyland Hong Kong, Westfield – Hurstville, Hong Kong Tourism Board, Mr Chao Seafood Restaurant, Shoal Bay Resort and Spa, Ananda Travel Service, BankWest

Thank you to our sponsors and supporters

Thank you to our sponsors and supporters

Harmony Day

Hurstville City Council will celebrate 2009 Harmony Day with a free Dance Concert for the community, hosted in partnership with the Department of Education and Training on Friday, 20 March 2009.

Ten primary and high schools in the Hurstville area have prepared a dance to perform at the concert, inspired by the themes of harmony, community, diversity, multiculturalism, goodwill and understanding.

In addition to these school performances, the students will unite to perform a final dance together.

Hurstville City Council is committed to partnerships that foster community harmony.

Details:Hurstville Entertainment Centre – Marana Auditorium10.00am – 12.00pmFor information, telephone 9330 6069

Library comes alive for Neighbour Day

Hurstville City Council will recognise 2009 Neighbour Day by inviting the community to ‘borrow’ the real-life stories of fascinating individuals on Wednesday, 25 March 2009.

Hurstville’s ‘Living Library’ works in the same way as a conventional library, except community members ‘borrow’ people with unique stories to tell for half an hour, rather than books.

Those ‘on loan’ from the Hurstville Living Library represent groups that regularly experience prejudice in society.

The event coincides with Neighbour Day (29 March), which encourages people to strengthen their local community by building better relationships with those living around them.

Details:Hurstville Living LibraryHurstville City LibraryBookings essential. Telephone Librarian Maria El-Chami on 9330 6104 or email mel-chami@hurstville.nsw.gov.au

PAGE 5

Council recognises local volunteers

Hurstville City Council paid tribute to local volunteers at a special reception late last year.

The 2008 Volunteers of the Year ceremony honoured the efforts of 45 individuals in the Hurstville local government area who were nominated by their colleagues for their outstanding volunteer efforts.

Volunteers are the unsung heroes who our community relies on to deliver a range of vital services to people who need them most.

These individuals give freely of their time, skills and experience in

sectors including welfare, education, conservation, emergency services, sport and the arts.

The special ceremony coincided with International Volunteer Day on 5 December 2008.

Hurstville City residents are particularly community-minded, with approximately 13.3 per cent of the local population volunteering each year.

For more information on volunteering, visit www.worldvolunteerweb.org

St George Community Transport to acquire local area buses

St George Community Transport (STGCT) will take full responsibility for two 12-seater community buses currently owned by Hurstville City Council from July 2009.

At present, one of the buses is used exclusively by STGCT to convey frail and elderly residents and those with disabilities to appointments and activities.

The not-for-profit organisation also administers the hiring out of the second bus to local community

groups and organisations that find accessing public transport difficult.

STGCT will acquire the buses on 1 July, assuming total responsibility for their upkeep and management.

The buses will continue to bear Council’s logo, in recognition of its support for the community transport services STGCT provides.

For enquiries and bookings, telephone St George Community Transport on 9580 8911 or email enquiries@stgct.org

St George and Sutherland councils awarded $1.9 million for river sustainability project

St George and Sutherland councils have received a $1.9 million grant from NSW Environment Trust to rehabilitate popular recreational waterway, the lower Georges River.

Hurstville, Kogarah, Rockdale and Sutherland councils are collaborating on the project, which will result in the restoration of riverside vegetation and habitats and increase community awareness about sustaining the environment.

A sustainability plan will be prepared for the catchment on behalf of the councils, Georges River Combined Councils’ Committee and Sydney Metropolitan Catchment Management Authority.

The project will ensure sustainable management of the lower Georges River and provide a more efficient and holistic strategic planning for the entire river.

It will also strengthen protection of environmentally sensitive areas, reduce erosion and sedimentation along the river and improve storm water management.

In addition, the grant will assist the councils in improving recreational experiences, encourage the establishment of new community environmental groups and promote a sense of civic ownership and care for the lower Georges River.

The lower Georges River project links in with the urban sustainability projects being undertaken in the mid and upper parts of the river, enabling more efficient and strategic planning of the entire river system.

Mayor of Hurstville, Cr Vince Badalati congratulates some of Hurstville City’s outstanding volunteers at a special reception.

The spectacular Georges River is a popular recreation venue for Hurstville City residents.

Page 6

What’s On – March and April

Page 7

n HURSTVILLE CITY LIBRARY n PENSHURST LIBRARY n HURSTVILLE CITY MUSEUM AND GALLERY n HURSTVILLE AQUATIC LEISURE CENTRE n HURSTVILLE GOLF COURSE

Home library serviceare you unable to visit the library? Would you like to have books, DVDs, CDs, MP3 players, and magazines delivered to your door? Hurstville City Council offers a free home library service for Hurstville residents who cannot come to the library because of age, incapacity or illness. We make homes deliveries on a fortnightly basis. Phone 9330 6135 for more information on this service.*Please note Preschool Storytime, Storytime and Joey Tales are not held during school holidays.

Tuesday to Thursday 10.00am to 4.00pm. First and fourth Saturday of the month 10.00am to 3.00pm Other times by appointment onlyMailing ListWant to keep updated with the latest cultural and community events in Hurstville? Join our mailing list to receive updates on exhibitions, events and activities for the whole family. To join, phone Hurstville City Museum and gallery on 9330 6444 or email museumgallery@hurstville.nsw.gov.au

InShape Health Club Whatever your fitness level, whatever your reason for working out, InShape provides the facilities and programs to get you where you want to be. Join InShape Health Club and enjoy the benefits of our 6 star service. For more information, telephone 9585 9600.Swimways Swim SchoolLearn to swim classes for all ages and abilities. We provide you and your children with highly qualified austswim instructors and a professional approach to teaching swimming.The Johnny Warren Indoor StadiumCome and see us for all your indoor sporting needs, whether it be basketball, soccer or gymnastics. Telephone Ron on 9585 9600.

Hurstville golf Course is open to the public every day. Come and play nine or 18 holes. Social clubs welcome. Pro Shop as well as equipment for hire. Bookings, gift vouchers and golf tuition available.Hurstville Golf Club• Based at Hurstville golf Course, Hurstville golf Club continues to grow

and provide great value for members, including:• golf australia handicap managed and maintained through golfLink• Insurance cover at all australian courses• Club competitions available Tuesday, Friday and Saturday. Open to

ladies and men• NSW events (ladies, men and junior)• Reduced green fees for members every time you play at Hurstville golf

Course• Discount on purchases from the Pro Shop• Competitive membership costs (membership 1 July – 30 June).For more information visit www.hurstvillegolfclub.com.au

*Please note Storytime is not held during school holidays.

HURSTVILLE CITY LIBRARYCnr Queens Road and Dora Street, Hurstville. Telephone 9330 6111

PENSHURST LIBRARY630 Forest Road (near Olds Park), Penshurst. Telephone 9330 6422

HURSTVILLE CITY MUSEUM AND GALLERY14 MacMahon Street, Hurstville. Telephone 9330 6444

HURSTVILLE AQUATIC LEISURE CENTRECnr King Georges and Forest Roads, Hurstville. Telephone 9585 9600

HURSTVILLE GOLF COURSELorraine Street, Peakhurst. Telephone 9533 2194

Business SeminarSee page 9

x

30

Mar

ch 2

009

monday tuesday wednesday thursday friday saturday sunday

31 1

2 3 4 5 6 7 8

9 10 11 12 13 14 15

22212019181716

23 24 25 26 27 28 29

Ap

ril 2

009

monday tuesday wednesday thursday friday saturday sunday

1 2 3 4 5

6 7 8 9 10 11 12

13 14 15 16 17 18 19

26252423222120

27 28 29 30

Clean Up Australia DayVarious locations around Hurstville CityPhone 9330 6155 for more information

Exhibition openings – Worlds of Wonder n & Living on the Water’s Edge of St George n1.00pm. Refreshments includedDragonflys Kids Club – Sail away!4-10 years. 11.00am – 12.30pmBookings essential. Phone: 9330 6444 n

Storytime Kindergarten – Year 64.00pm nWrap with Love Knitters Group 1.00pm – 3.00pm n

*Dragon talesMandarin Storytime, 10.00am – 10.30am & 11.00am – 11.30am nStorytime Kindergarten – Year 64.00pm nWrap with Love Knitters Group 6.30pm – 8.30pm n

Joey Tales 0-3 years with parents/carers10.00am – 10.30am & 11.00am – 11.30am n

Hurstville Discovery Writers Group1.00pm – 3.00pmenquiries: 9330 6097 n*Pre School Storytime 3-5 years10.00am to 10.45am n

International Women’s Day celebration Performances, guest speakers and refreshments. 10.00am – 11.30am enquiries: 9330 6097 nJoey Tales 0-3 years with parents/carers10.00am – 10.30am & 11.00am – 11.30am n

Joey Tales0-3 years with parents/carers10.00am – 10.30am & 11.00am – 11.30 am nSeniors Week Events – Information Day9.30am – 12.30pm. See page 10 n Author talk – Kathy Golski1.00pm – 2.00pm. See page 10 n

*Dragon tales Mandarin Storytime. 10.00am – 10.30am & 11.00am – 11.30am nStorytime Kindergarten – Year 6. 4.00pm nSeniors Week Event – Storytelling with Children 10.00am – 11.00am n

*Pre School Storytime3-5 years10.00am to 10.45am n2009 Hurstville Discovery Writers Group 1.00pm – 3.00pmenquiries: 9330 6097 n

*Pre School Storytime3-5 years. 10.00am to 10.45am nSeniors Week Event – Injury Prevention Seminar 9.30am – 3.00pm. See page 102009 Hurstville Discovery Writers Group 1.00pm – 3.00pm enquiries: 9330 6097 n

*Dragon tales Mandarin Storytime. 10.00am – 10.30am & 11.00am – 11.30am nStorytime Kindergarten – Year 6. 4.00pm nSeniors Week Event – Walk and barbecue at Oatley Park11.00am – 2.00pm. See page 10

*Dragon tales Mandarin Storytime. 10.00am – 10.30am & 11.00am – 11.30am nStorytime Kindergarten – Year 6. 4.00pm nHurstville Living Library and Neighbour Day Event. 10.00am. For information, phone 9330 6104 n

Joey Tales 0-3 years with parents/carers10.00am – 10.30am & 11.00am – 11.30am nSeniors Week Event – Line Dancing for SeniorsHurstville Senior Citizen Centre12.30pm – 3.30pm. See page 10

*Pre School Storytime3-5 years10.00am to 10.45am n2009 Hurstville Discovery Writers Group 1.00pm – 3.00pmenquiries: 9330 6097 n

Storytime School age K-64.00pm n

Seniors Week Event – Frail Aged Luncheon for Hurstville residents11:00am – 2:30pm. See page 10Internet for Beginners 10.00am – 12.00pm & 2.00pm – 4.00pm. See page 10 n

Storytime School age K-6. 4.00pm nSeniors Week Event – ‘Those where the days’ reminiscing session, 10.00am –11.30am. See page 10 nSeniors Week Event – Indian-Australian cultural day 12.30pm – 3.00pm. See page 10 n

Storytime School age K-6. 4.00pm nBook Chat at the Branch 10.00am – 11.00am nSeniors Week – Storytelling with Children 10.00am – 10.45am nGolden Old Time Dancing 12.30pm – 3.30pm. Friends of the Library meeting 10.00am n

Art Attack – Sketching(7-12 years) 10.30am – 12.30pmBookings essential. Phone: 9330 6444 n Friends of the Museum meeting 1.00pm nArt Attack – A Lesson in Sketching 4-10 years. 10.30am – 12.30pm n

Storytime Kindergarten – Year 64.00pm n

*Dragon talesMandarin Storytime, 10.00am – 10.30am & 11.00am – 11.30am nPre School Storytime 0-5 years with parents/carers 10.00am – 10.30am &10.45am – 11.15am nStorytime Kindergarten – Year 64.00pm n

Joey Tales 0-3 years with parents/carers10.00am – 10.30am & 11.00am – 11.30am n

*Pre School Storytime 3-5 years10.00am to 10.45am n2009 Hurstville Discovery Writers Group 1.00pm – 3.00pmenquiries: 9330 6097 n

Holiday Activity – Easter Eggscitement Story, film and craft10.00am – 11.30am. Bookings essential.Telephone 9330 6422 nSchool Holiday Activity – Star-gazing in St George 4 – 10 years. 11.00am – 12.30pm $5.00. Bookings essential. Telephone 9330 6444 n

Holiday Activity – Fairytale Frenzy Stories, film and craft 10.00am – 11.30am. Bookings essential. $2 refundable deposit. nSchool Holiday Activity – St George & the Dragon4 – 10 years. 11.00am – 12.30pm. $5.00. Bookings essential.Telephone 9330 6444 n

*Dragon tales Mandarin Storytime. 10.00am – 10.30am & 11.00am – 11.30am nPreschool Storytime 10.00am – 10.30am &10.45am – 11.15am nStorytime Kindergarten – Year 6. 4.00pm n

*Pre School Storytime3-5 years10.00am to 10.45am n2009 Hurstville Discovery Writers Group 1.00pm – 3.00pmenquiries: 9330 6097 n

Holiday Activity – Easter Eggscitement Story, film and craft10.00am – 11.30am.Bookings essential.$2 refundable deposit.Telephone 9330 6138 n

From Saris to Surf exhibition ends nArt Attack – Medieval Manuscripts 7 – 12 years. 10.30am – 12.30pm $5.00 per child. Bookings essential. Telephone 9330 6444 nFriends of the Museum meeting 1.00pm n

Holiday Activity – Fairytale Frenzy Stories, film and craft 10.00am – 11.30am. Bookings essential. $2 refundable deposit.Telephone 9330 6138 nFriends of the Library meeting 10.00am n

Storytime Kindergarten – Year 6. 4.00pm n

*Dragon talesMandarin Storytime, 10.00am – 10.30am & 11.00am – 11.30am nStorytime Kindergarten – Year 64.00pm n

Storytime Kindergarten – Year 64.00pm n

Worlds of Wonder exhibition ends nDragonflys Kids Club – Medieval Madness 4 - 10 years. 11.00am – 12.30pmBookings essential. $5.00. Bookings essential. Phone 9330 6444 n

PAGE 8

Council to revitalise Library and Museum

Museum and Gallery to apply for an additional range of grants.

Through the sharing of services, there is greater potential for the Museum and Library to enhance their capacity to serve the community.

Inclusion of the word ‘Gallery’ in the new name acknowledges that Council regularly develops and displays exhibitions in the Museum and Hurstville Library buildings.

In line with the changes, a new logo and website will be launched to jointly represent the Hurstville City Library, Museum and Gallery.

Hurstville City Council is undertaking an exciting revitalisation of St George Regional Museum, Hurstville City Library, and Penshurst Branch Library.

Under the plan, the Museum and Library branches will be re-branded under the name ‘Hurstville City Library, Museum and Gallery’, and staff from each organisation will work together to deliver improved services to the community from April.

The shift in the way many companies and organisations now operate – delivering a number of different services and products – has been proven to result in greater efficiencies and higher standards.

Council’s new approach to delivering library, museum and gallery services is expected to provide tangible benefits across the board, from children’s activities right through to seniors’ programs.

It will allow staff to share information, technology and expertise and direct their energies in the most efficient manner.

The merging of services will also enable the Hurstville City Library,

Fridge buyback

Hurstville City Council is encouraging residents to help the environment by disposing of old and inefficient fridges.

Council partners with the NSW Government’s Climate Change Fund on the Fridge Buyback scheme, where uneconomical fridges are degassed, the cooling chemicals in them destroyed and their metal parts recycled.

Fridge Buyback accepts working second fridges that are 250 litres or more in size and at least 10 years old.

Along with free collection from your home by experienced removalists, residents

are eligible for a $35 rebate for handing in their fridge if six stairs or less are involved in the removal.

Old fridges are big energy wasters, consuming up to three times the electricity of new fridges and costing around $190 to run annually. The average household can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to one tonne annually by disposing of their second fridge.

For more information, visit www.fridgebuyback.com.au or phone 1800 708 401.

2009 St George Ball fundraiser renews hopeGuests at Hurstville City Council’s St George Ball this year will come away with a spring in their step and a sense of renewal.

The popular charity event, to be held at the Conca D’Oro Events Centre, will have a theme of ‘Spring Harvest’ on Friday, 1 May 2009.

The annual ball will once again raise money for a major capital works program currently underway at St George Hospital’s Cancer Care Centre.

The creation of advanced new facilities for the Prostate Cancer Institute will enable it to expand and enhance treatment offerings for those suffering from the disease.

The night will feature dinner, dancing, entertainment, raffles and auctions.

For more information on tickets and sponsorship, telephone Council’s Events and Protocol Officer Helen Dickenson-Panas on 9330 6067 or email hdickenson-panas@hurstville.nsw.gov.au

Look out for the colourful new Hurstville City Library, Museum and Gallery logo.

Guests at last year’s St George Ball enjoyed fine dining, dancing and entertainment.

PAGE 9

Council’s e-green efforts not wasted

St George councils were applauded recently for their environmental approach to disposing of old electrical goods (e-waste) at the 2008 Local Government and Shires Associations of NSW Excellence in the Environment Awards in Sydney.

Hurstville, Kogarah and Rockdale councils received the Waste Management Award for a joint project called ‘St George Recycle ‘IT’ Collection and Awareness’.

The project has resulted in e-waste being collected at Council clean-ups for recycling. It has previously been

Hurstville City Council is holding two events in the coming months that will help business leaders plan for the future.

Free business seminarCouncil and the Nine Network Australia will present a free seminar for local corporate leaders to provide strategies to help businesses cope in an unstable economy on 31 March 2009. Channel 9 Business and Finance Editor Ross Greenwood will give the keynote address and answer questions on the night.

Council supports business community

2009 Excellence in Business AwardsAs in past years, Council will also host the Excellence in Business Awards to recognise the hard work and dedication of local business operators, on 25 May 2009.

recognised with a Keep Australia Beautiful Sustainable Cities Award in mid-2008.

For its part, Hurstville City Council has hosted one of the clean-up events and also produced an informative, free guide to recycling televisions, printers, power tools and other appliances.

To read ‘A guide to investigating and conducting an electronic waste project in your council’, visit www.hurstville.nsw.gov.au and click on ‘Electronic Waste’ under ‘Waste and Recycling’.

For more information on these events, email Council’s Events and Protocol Officer Helen Dickenson-Panas at hdickenson-panas@hurstville.nsw.gov.au or telephone 9330 6067.

World Masters Games – call for volunteersDo you want to be a part of the world’s biggest multi-sport event?

Sydney will host the seventh World Masters Games from 10 – 18 October 2009.

Games events will be held at Sydney Olympic Park and more than 70 other venues, and a volunteer workforce of approximately 6000 people is needed.

More than 25,000 athletes will be coming to Sydney from all corners of Australia and around the world to compete for gold, glory and the fun of it.

Hurstville City will have its moment in the spotlight, as host of the World Masters Games table tennis championships at the Johnny Warren Sports Centre at Hurstville Aquatic Leisure Centre.

By volunteering you have the chance to be part of the action, without having to jump off a springboard or tackle someone on the rugby pitch.

Get involvedVisit www.2009world masters.com and click on ‘How to Volunteer’, email volunteers@2009worldmasters.com or phone 8116 2010.

Hurstville Council’s Waste Project Co-ordinator Margaux Park (far right) proudly displays the St George councils’ Waste Management Award with award sponsor WSN Environmental Solutions’ Natasha Schultz and Kogarah Council Waste Education Officer Jenny Howle (L to R).

A happy competitor displays her medals at the 2005 World Masters Games, Canada.

PAGE 10

Get in theMIX during Youth Week 2009Hurstville, Kogarah and Rockdale councils and local not-for-profit organisation YouthZone are rallying the area’s youth to attend a massive National Youth Week festival to be held at Kempt Field, Hurstville on Saturday, 28 March 2009.

The name of the event will be ‘the MIX St George Youth Festival’, reflecting the fact that Hurstville, Kogarah and Rockdale local government areas are uniting to create the biggest and best youth event ever in 2009.

The name also epitomises the cultural diversity of St George’s youth and their tolerance and acceptance of difference; a strength that was recognised at a recent St George Youth Services forum.

Congratulations to Jenny Gobbe for suggesting the winning name in a late-2008 competition.

Young people between the ages of 12 and 25 years can join in on the fun at this important local event to celebrate Youth Week (28 March – 5 April 2009).

The event will include workshops, performances, art, music and celebration.

For more information, telephone Hurstville City Council Youth Worker, Catherine Wright on 9330 6063 or email cwright@hurstville.nsw.gov.au

Seniors Week Events and Activities

Hurstville City Council is hosting a wide ranging 12-day program of events (16-27 March) to celebrate 2009 Seniors Week.

Around 32 per cent of residents in the Hurstville local government area are over the age of 50.

Hurstville City’s seniors take a very active role in the life of our community,

through their participation in volunteer and paid work, sport, recreation and the arts.

Seniors Week is a time to celebrate their contribution to our community.

Whatever your interests, take the opportunity to learn something new, make friends and participate in an event in your local area during 2009 Seniors Week.

Monday 16 MarchSeniors Information DayHurstville City Library, Museum & Gallery 9.30am – 12.30pmSession 1 – Pills and Potion Historical ViewSession 2 – Mind your Mind – keeping your mind healthySession 3- Owen Hodge Lawyers explain wills and power of attorneyRefreshments providedFor bookings, telephone 9330 6444Monday 16 MarchAuthor talk – Kathy GolskiHurstville City Library Exhibition Space1.00pm – 2.00pmKathy will talk about her second book My Two Husbands. The book traces her life with Olek, his tragic death, and new love with her second husband Voy.Bookings essential. Telephone 9330 6111Monday 16 – Friday 20 MarchOpen Week – Seniors Computer ClubHurstville Senior Citizen CentreDrop in to learn more about the Hurstville Seniors Computer Club between 9.00am and 3.00pm each day.For more information, telephone 9150 9377 or 9522 6956Tuesday 17 MarchInjury Prevention SeminarSt George Leagues Club Level 1, Grange Room9.30am – 3.00pmPresented by St George HospitalMorning tea and lunch providedBookings essential. Telephone 9113 3499 and advise if transport is requiredWednesday 18 MarchWalk and barbecue at Oatley ParkMeet at the Oatley Park Castle11.00am – 2.00pmBush walk, barbecue, health information, gentle exercise, blood pressure check up and entertainmentHosted by Hurstville Rotary ClubFor bookings, telephone 9330 6091 and advise if transport is required

Thursday 19 March‘Those were the days’ reminiscing eventPenshurst Branch Library, Olds Park10.00am – 11.30amRefreshments providedBookings essential. Telephone 9330 6422Thursday 19 MarchIndian-Australian cultural event12.30pm – 3.00pmExplore the Saris to Surf exhibition at Hurstville City Library, Museum & Gallery, then progress to the Hurstville Entertainment Centre’s Civic Theatre to enjoy an Indian dance performance.Lunch providedBookings essential. Telephone 9330 6444Friday 20 MarchFrail Aged Luncheon for Hurstville residentsMortdale RSL11:00am – 2:30pmBy booking and invitation only. Transport provided on request.For more information, telephone 9580 8911Friday 20 MarchInternet for beginnersHurstville City Library12.00pm – 2.00pm (session 1) & 2.00pm – 4.00pm (session 2)Bookings essential. Telephone 9330 6111Monday 23 March Line Dancing for SeniorsHurstville Senior Citizen Centre11.30am – 3.30pmBuffet lunch providedBookings essential. Telephone 9330 6091Friday 27 March Golden Old Time DanceHurstville Senior Citizen Centre11.30am – 3.30pmBuffet lunch providedBookings essential. Telephone 9330 6091

Program of Events

Local resident Jenny Gobbe came up with the name for the St George Council’s Youth Week Festival.

Women in the spotlight Hurstville City Council will celebrate International Women’s Day (IWD) with a choral concert presented by members of the Women’s Interfaith Network in Hurstville Entertainment Centre’s Civic Theatre on Monday, 9 March 2009.

This annual day (8 March) celebrates the economic, political and social achievements of women across the world and inspires women to achieve their full potential.

At the concert, female choirs representing different religious groups in the area will each perform a song themed around women and peace. The singers will then come together to perform a song, which they have written together. The new song will be recorded by community radio station 2NBC FM for future broadcast.

For more information, telephone Council’s Cultural Development Officer Anne-Marie Wiles on 9330 6097 or email awiles@hurstville.nsw.gov.au

Saris to Surf exhibition A new Hurstville City Museum and Gallery exhibition journeys guests from the exotic subcontinent of India to Australia, the land of breaking waves.

Switch off for the planet

Hurstville City Council is joining the fight against climate change by participating in Earth Hour for the third consecutive year on Saturday, 28 March 2009.

Earth Hour began as a World Wide Fund for Nature campaign to get Sydneysiders to turn off their lights, and has grown to be one of the world’s biggest climate change initiatives. This year, more than 1 billion people in 1000 cities are expected to participate.

Council is encouraging the local community to join in by turning off your lights and appliances at 8.30pm on 28 March, for one hour.

To demonstrate your commitment, sign on to the Earth Hour campaign at www.earthhour.org

How to reduce your energy usage every day

• switch to compact fluorescent light bulbs to save money and reduce emissions

• turn appliances off at the power point while not in use

• switch to green power (www.greenpower.gov.au)

• reduce hot water use by installing a water saving showerhead

• encourage family and friends to reduce their energy use.

PAGE 11

From Saris to Surf tells the story of the Indian community’s relationship with Australia.

Through images, text, objects and oral histories, the exhibition charts the impact of Indian immigration on Australia and explores the significant contributions the Indian community has made to this country at a national and local level.

Details:Hurstville City Museum & Gallery – FREECloses on 25 April, 2009For more information, telephone 9330 6444

Discover writing in 2009Hurstville City Council is calling on new and emerging writers in the local area to hone their literary skills at a series of 12 writing workshops to be held at Hurstville City Library from 3 March until 2 June.

Participants in the 2009 Discovery Writers Group will develop their skills in creative writing, writing for the web and self publishing during the course.

There is also the opportunity for writers to contribute to a 2NBC FM

program called Hurstville Discovery Writers ON AIR.

For information, telephone Council’s Cultural Development Officer Anne-Marie Wiles on 9330 6097 or email awiles@hurstville.nsw.gov.au

Details:Hurstville City LibraryMiles Franklin Room$60 (GST inclusive)1.00pm – 3.00pm on Thursdays

Journey to foreign lands at the Saris to Surf exhibition.

To obtain interpreter assistance in your community language, contact the Telephone Interpreter Service on 13 14 50 and ask them to ring Council on 9330 6222 on your behalf.

Your Council

ARABIC

CHINESE

GREEK

ITALIAN

MACEDONIAN

Jack Jacovou0434 327 848

PEAKHURST

Bill Pickering9534 34420411 745 257

Philip SansomDeputy Mayor9533 15430411 745 258

Beverley Giegerl OAM9570 45620419 770 352

PENSHURST

Con Hindi 9594 15510411 743 240

Steve McMahon9596 05130419 770 355

David Perry0434 327 847

Vince BadalatiMayor 9150 61450411 745 255

HURSTVILLE

Andrew Istephan0434 327 846

Nancy Liu9579 21180434 327 845

Clifton Wong0411 745 252

PAGE 8

Anne Wagstaff9585 96160434 327 850

Contacting CouncilCivic Centre MacMahon Street Hurstville NSW 2220PO Box 205 Hurstville BC NSW 1481Phone: 9330 6222

Website: www.hurstville.nsw.gov.au