Welcome to what is already shaping up to be a big 2024!
It’s a real privilege to provide this message as your new Mayor. I am constantly mindful of the huge responsibility as a resident myself, and ratepayer, mum, small business owner, volunteer and member of the Knox community.
I recognise that being Mayor of the City is an act of service, and one I undertake to the best of my abilities as custodian of our land and Council assets for the benefit of all.
Outer East Foodshare
One of the big issues currently gaining nationwide attention is the surge in need for food and other emergency relief. Sadly, Knox was identified by Foodbank Victoria as one of only two ‘red zones’ experiencing the biggest food shortages in their eastern catchment – an area stretching for more than 500 kilometres from Hawthorn to Mallacoota.
Council has responded by establishing Food Relief Taskforce and warehouse facility for a new food relief distribution centre in Wantirna. Outer East Foodshare will use the building to store and distribute food to 35 local services in Knox who support residents in need.
7NEWS recently came out to see volunteers in action and I had the privilege to help highlight their incredible efforts. This is part of Council’s ongoing work with food relief agencies in the outer eastern suburbs to overcome challenges in providing services for our most vulnerable at this time.
If you live in Knox and are in need of food and other emergency relief, visit knox.vic.gov.au/relief-providers.
Knox Sport and Leisure Awards
Celebrating volunteers and grassroots sport here in Knox has for a long time been a commitment of Council. Nominations are now open for the annual Knox Sport and Leisure Awards in the categories of Club of the Year; Best Club Initiated Program; Club Person of the Year (Adult and Junior); Women in Sport Leadership; and, Years of Service.
Nominations close midday on 4 March and winners will be announced on 19 June. Find out more at knox.vic.gov.au/sportawards
New Council Plan – have your say
As we commence the new year I want to reiterate how much we value hearing from our community.
This year Council will be seeking your feedback on our new Council Plan – a Plan undertaken in consultation with our community every four years – a new strategy for our waste and resource management, how we manage our open spaces and more. To stay up to date and provide feedback in your language, please visit knox.vic.gov.au/HaveYourSay
Knox Fest
Last but not least, one of the biggest events on our calendar is just around the corner with the return of Knox Fest on Saturday 2 March from 10am–10pm at Wally Tew Reserve, Ferntree Gully.
Highlights include two stages of music and performances, rides and inflatables, makers markets, a foodie hub, roller skating rink, vintage car show, free kids’ workshops, activities and face-painting, roving performers, night-time projection art and a fireworks finale. Find out more knox.vic.gov.au/knoxfest
