Councillor update from Cr Daniel Griffiths

The future of Whitehorse 

I strongly believe Council’s focus should be local, and on getting the basics right. However, State Government decisions directly impact Council’s rates, roads and rubbish. Council is advocating for the State to fix their potholes, and restore equitable co-funding for our libraries and maternal child health services. We’ve opposed increased state levies that push up Council waste fees and rate bills above the ‘Fair go’ rates cap. At the same time, planning reforms removed local council powers and community consultation, while rezoning land to unlock future high-density housing near train stations. The state election outcome has big consequences for Whitehorse. It will affect open green space, Big Build projects, bin collection policy, and even the design of local democracy itself. Be wellinformed as you head to the ballot box. Every vote counts, but in marginal seats like ours even more so. 

Could joining a club change your life? 

If you find yourself ‘ticking away the moments that make up a dull day’, as described by the song 'Time' by Pink Floyd, the Whitehorse Seniors Festival draws together more than 200 free and low-cost activities for you throughout October. They are designed for seniors, but most are open to all ages – including those still young at heart, or wondering where all the time went. Source the full program details online or from Council offices. A few highlighted activities: 

• 3-hour bus tour to  Bio Gro to discover what happens after your green bin is collected 
• guided bird walk and birdfriendly garden advice with Bungalook Plant Nursery 
• Neighbourhood House at Eley – Sewing, Knitting, Tango for Parkinson classes 

I’ve recently visited my local retirement village communities at Regis Inala Village, Barina Gardens, and Ryman’s John Flynn Retirement Village. Together, we celebrated the successful Council delivery of a requested safer pedestrian crossing on Foundation Boulevard. I also gathered a new list of well-considered resident priorities and action items to follow up on. 
Navigating Council issues can feel daunting against a large bureaucracy, red tape, and competing priorities, but I am here to help as your Councillor.