Archive for September 30th, 2008

Maroondah Leader: Station receives no funding from upgrade

Published by Alex Makin on Tuesday 30th of September, 2008

While the State Government has announced $39 million for the redevelopment of Ringwood Station interchange, the station itself has missed out on a commitment. The Maroondah Leader has reported on these concerns:

Maroondah councillor Alex Makin said it would not address the “crux of the problem” – the physical condition of Ringwood Station.

“They are addressing the cosmetic side of the precinct but people will continue to struggle day in and day out with those ramps,” Cr Makin said.

The announcement has indicated that the State Government will providing $39 million of funding over three years in the 2009/10 State Budget for the redevelopment of the bus interchange and station forecourt.

“Ringwood cannot be an economic and employment hub if it remains difficult to access by public transport. I’m concerned that this announcement may make it difficult to get further funding for the station redevelopment.”

Ringwood Station currently fails disability compliance standards making it difficult for people with disabilities to access Ringwood and the employment, community and recreational opportunities it provides. It is extremely disappointing that the State Government will not address these concerns.

I will be continuing to advocate for the redevelopment of Ringwood Station so that we can have an inclusive urban centre that can be accessed by all members of our community.

Maroondah Journal: $39m budget for city revitalisation

Published by Alex Makin on Tuesday 30th of September, 2008

The Maroondah Journal has reported on the the State Government’s announcement of $39 million for Ringwood Station beginning in the 2009/10 State Budget.

Eastern Transport Coalition spokesman and Maroondah Councillor Alex Makin said the funding was “half-complete” and failed to cover improvements to accessibility.

“The steep gradients of the ramps at Ringwood station means it fails disability-compliance standards.”

While it is encouraging that the State Government is finally delivering tangible funding to Ringwood, it is disappointing that the station itself will not be improved. This means that further advocacy is required to ensure that the Government commits to delivering an accessible transport interchange to create an inclusive public transport system for Ringwood and Maroondah.

I will continue to advocate for improvements to Ringwood Station to ensure that the State Government delivers this commitment.

Ecosmart Solarsmart Workshop

Published by Alex Makin on Tuesday 30th of September, 2008

This evening I attended Ecosmart’s Solarmart Workshop, an information session organised through Maroondah Council to discuss solar technology and reducing greenhouse emissions.

The workshop provided an overview of solar technology and the need for alternatives to coal electricity generation, which is a major contributor to greenhouse emissions. Standard coal-fired plants emit 915 g/kWh over their lifecycle and should carbon capture and storage ever become viable this will still produce 200 g/kWh in emissions.

While rebates are available for the purchase of solar panels, it is clear that this program needs to be extended so that it can be applied to more than just 1kW of renewable energy. Improvements to the rebate scheme would encourage households to purchase enough solar panels to cover their electricity needs, reducing dependence on coal and improving sustainability.

Council is currently committed to a 20% reduction in greenhouse emissions by 2010. I will be seeking further reductions so that council can demonstrate leadership in environmental sustainability and reduce its environmental impact.

Solar Smart Information Workshop

Published by Alex Makin on Monday 22nd of September, 2008

Maroondah Council and EcoSmart Programs will be holding a free Solar Smart Information Workshop from 7pm on Tuesday the 30th of September at Maroondah Federation Estate.

The workshop will explain how photo voltaic solar panels work, how much power they feed into the grid and the many benefits to households and the environment. EcoSmart will also assist in the process of applying for solar rebates.
 
If you are interested in becoming part of the solution to Climate Change, come along to find out more, and slash the cost of your power bills while helping the planet. EcoSmart can also provide a free Home Energy and Water Assessment to assist households in becoming more efficient with water and electricity consumption.

For further details contact Rebecca Lee on 9725 5010 or email rebecca.lee@ecosmart.net.au.

Maroondah Writers and Readers Festival Steering Group

Published by Alex Makin on Sunday 1st of June, 2008

The Maroondah Writers and Readers Festival will be held between the 3rd and 5th of October and will include workshops, discussion forums and a chance to meet a number of prominent authors.

A steering group involving Maroondah City Council, Eastern Regional Libraries and community members are organising the festival. Given my interest in the arts I have been attending the steering group meetings to provide assistance and liaison between the group and council.

For further details please visit www.erl.vic.gov.au/crimewriters/festival.htm