glimpsing a future - Marrickville Council

marrickville
matters
MAR 2012
vol28 no1
Camperdown Dulwich Hill Enmore Lewisham Marrickville Newtown Petersham St Peters Stanmore Sydenham Tempe
GLIMPSING A FUTURE
The new Marrickville Library will be a vibrant, accessible community hub.
Based on surveys and other feedback telling us what your preferred design for the new library is, Council will now
deliberate on an outcome. The winning concept design will be selected from these three architectural submissions
(pictured above) and is expected to be announced at a meeting of Council in late March. These designs provide a
preliminary vision only, with more detail on what the new Marrickville Library might look like, and how it might
function, to come. To Have Your Say on Council’s proposed Special Rate Variation, turn to page 8 and complete our
survey or visit www.yoursaymarrickville.com.au/newlibrarysite
Official publication of Marrickville Council
www.marrickville.nsw.gov.au
mayor’s
message
Welcome to this special edition of
Marrickville Matters dedicated, in large part,
to the proposed new Marrickville Library. On
the following pages are stories that reflect
on what a modern day Marrickville library
might look like, how it would function,
what transport and access issues are to be
considered, and how it might be funded,
while also providing answers to questions
asked by you.
Our cover features concept designs submitted
by three architectural firms engaged to come up
with a vision for our new library. These designs
were developed in consultation with Council’s
Major Projects and library teams as well as the
community. You can read some of the community
feedback already received, on page 9.
You may be surprised, as I was, to learn that real,
measurable economic and social value comes from
investing in library services in local communities.
According to research by the Library Council of
NSW, for every $1 spent on public libraries, $4.24
of economic benefit and $2.82 of real economic
activity is generated (see story on page 5).
1993-1995
Council purchases the former
Marrickville Hospital site for
Civic Centre that includes a
New Library
1996
Council’s calls for Expressions
of Interest from private
developers to realise
Council’s vision for the site is
unsuccessful, and the process
is terminated
2000-2004
Development delayed for
remediation of Tempe Lands
2005-2007
Feasibility study and
purchase of 182, 184 and 186
Livingstone Road
WHY BUILD A NEW
and MODERN
MARRICKVILLE
LIBRARY?
Development deferred
because of property market
downturn and reallocation of
funds to AKAC
2010-2011
Development of the Draft
Accommodation Schedule for
the New Marrickville Library
Council is committed to building a new
Marrickville Library (on the old Marrickville
Hospital site) that meets the needs of our
growing and diverse community. It should
also, however, reflect the technological
changes that are transforming the way
modern-day libraries function.
How will the special rate variation affect you?
The special rate variation to fund the new Marrickville Library would be 6.72 per cent above the rate
peg for a 15 year period starting in 2013/2014. At the end of the 15 year period, rates would decrease
by 6.72 per cent. The cost of this increase has been estimated to be about $1 per week for the
average ratepayer, and about $6.70 per week for businesses.
PER WEEK INCREASE *
2008-2009
PER YEAR INCREASE*
Average residential ratepayer
$1.02
$52.83
Average business ratepayer
$6.67
$347.07
Rates are determined based on valuations provided by the Valuer General as at 1 July 2009. For more
information about how your rates are calculated and to view fact sheets on the new library visit:
www.yoursaymarrickville.com.au/newlibrarysite
More than a place for storing books, libraries have
become hubs of community interactivity where
people engage with technology, information,
ideas, and each other. This is evidenced in the
concept designs submitted by the three competing
architectural firms (see front cover) that show the
high level of innovation defining new libraries.
Yet to deliver for our community the many types
of services and facilities required of a new and
modern library, Council will have to consider a
number of funding options.
Current cost estimates for the project are:
New library building - $22.8 million
Park/forecourt - $5 million
Preliminary work on the old Marrickville Hospital site
- $2.2 million
Although Council’s income reserves can cover $7
million of these costs, additional funds of up to
$23 million are required.
2011
Consultation commences,
design competition launched
funding the new library
Cut costs in other areas
Council has undertaken a thorough review of all its
budgets and in the past two years cut spending,
whilst increasing revenue to $3.7 million annually.
At the same time, skyrocketing insurance costs,
years of rate pegging imposed by the State
Government, and the Global Financial Crisis have
chipped away at Council’s income reserves.
Build a smaller building with fewer services
A new library that is smaller and offers fewer
services might, to some degree, improve on the
current Marrickville Library but could be a sadly
missed opportunity for the local community. Many
Marrickville residents are in great need of free
internet services, access to computers and study
spaces, and classes in English. Local children
need entertainment and stimulation during school
holidays, including being encouraged to take up
reading. Marrickville seniors, too, need a place to
gather where they can overcome social isolation
and learn about community events and activities.
The Civic Centre will remain at Petersham and,
therefore, is not included as part of the new
Marrickville Library building.
Use funds from the sale of the rest of the
hospital site to developers
The new Library will cover only one part of the
Beyond the economics, cultural amenities like
libraries create civic pride. Libraries help create
a sense of community identity, a sense of place
and belonging. Marrickville is fortunate to have an
extensive archive which serves as our community’s
collective memory bank.
So how much will the library cost and how does
Council intend to pay for it? Council estimates it
will cost $30 million (see pages 2-3 for detail) with
Council’s existing reserves covering $7 million
of the total cost. This means Council must find
additional funds of up to $23 million.
Raising these funds via a special rate variation
(SRV) is one of the funding options Council will be
considering in the coming months. I urge you all to
read the information provided in this issue, so as
a community we can make an informed decision
about the best way of investing in our future
infrastructure.
I would also encourage you to tell us what you think
about the SRV, as well as letting us know what your
library needs are, by filling out and returning the
survey on page 8 (reply paid envelope provided).
If you wish to register your feedback online Council
has set up a ‘Your Say’ website where you can
view fact sheets, as well as make comments on
the library, at www.yoursaymarrickville.com.au/
newlibrarysite
Councillor Morris Hanna, OAM
Mayor of Marrickville
2 Marrickville Matters March 2012
1
Local
and Global
Trends
Libraries here and overseas offer more
than just a quiet space.
2012
Expert Tender Review Panel
considers designs, report
submitted to Council, winning
architectural firm announced,
detailed designs placed on
public exhibition
5
2
3
6
4
7
2012-2013
DA lodged
jan 2015
Marrickville’s New Library
opens
former hospital site, freeing up the majority of the
site for commercial and residential development
(including affordable accommodation). While
this will recoup some money for Council, this
is not a complete solution for funding the new
Marrickville Library. It is not feasible or financially
responsible to completely exhaust Council’s
property reserves. Council needs to keep a
significant amount in reserve to fund future needs
such as new community facilities, recreation and
public spaces, and maintaining existing facilities.
Special rate variation (SRV)
A special rate variation is an application to the
Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal
(IPART) for approval to raise rates above the limit
set by the State Government.
Council’s Long Term Financial Plan, adopted
by Council in June 2011, foreshadowed the
need for a special rate variation to pay for the
redevelopment of Council properties, including the
new Marrickville Library. The overall objective of
the Long Term Financial Plan is to ensure Council
remains a financially viable and sustainable
organisation. Council believes a special rate
variation may be the only way to provide a new
Library for the people of Marrickville, with the costs
spread over 15 years to help reduce the impact on
current local residents.
Left: Salt Lake City Public Library has music
playing on every floor, an art gallery, a ‘no
censorship’ policy on the computers with
Internet access, and a cafe serving coffee
and sandwiches.
1.The design of the Halmstad Library was
inspired by the surrounding trees and
features wall-to-wall windows with views of
parkland visible from virtually anywhere in
the building.
2.The Seattle Central Library was built in
2004 serving as a functional public space.
Its ‘Book Spiral’ displays the library’s entire
non-fiction collection in one continuously
winding run, enabling library-goers to
peruse the four-level section without being
interrupted by stairs.
3. Singleton Public Library, NSW.
Attribution OZinOH c/o Flickr
4. Wallsend Public Library, NSW.
Attribution OZinOH c/o Flickr
5. The Danish Royal Library new addition
(the Black Diamond) was built in 1999 and
houses a concert hall, exhibition spaces,
two museums, and a roof terrace in addition
to the library and reading rooms.
6.Set on a hilltop in Santo Domingo – an area
that was heavily affected by violence and
drug trafficking in the 1980s and 1990s –
Biblioteca España was built as part of an
initiative to enhance urban development
and to provide more opportunity to the city’s
poorest residents.
7.The ‘Calendar of Light’ (the light is coloured
by the leaves of the large trees in the park)
is by Danish architect Henning Larsen that
opened in 1997 and is one of three buildings
that make up the Malmö City Library that
dates back to 1905 and has almost 1 million
visitors each year.
Marrickville Matters March 2012 3
SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE
Many library users seek the help of a librarian when they visit a library, this is particularly the case for Chinese resident, Cindy Shi. She and her
seven year old son, Yaoshen Chen, visit Marrickville Library once or twice a week to borrow Chinese and English bi-lingual books and DVDs.
Marrickville Library’s Multicultural Librarian
Kathy Yang plays the role of bridge builder in
connecting the library’s multicultural service with
culturally and linguistically diverse borrowers.
“Kathy is always very helpful when we visit,”
Cindy said. “She helps us when we borrow and
return books.”
Cindy also attended the English Conversation
Classes that were held in the library at the end
of the year. The classes, a partnership between
Marrickville Council and Mission Australia, focused
on conversing in English and Australian culture.
“The classes were very good, but sometimes
I was too busy to come along,” she said. “I do
like going to the library, my Chinese friends are
always visiting and my son will also go to get
some help with his homework.”
To open community participation across all
cultures, Kathy created an annual calendar of
events for a culturally diverse range of library
users. Last year, 1447 people participated in
68 multicultural events and programs at
Marrickville Library.
Marrickville Library has the LOTE (languages
other than English) collections which include
Chinese, Greek, Portuguese, Spanish and
Vietnamese.
“Cultural diversity is important and beneficial
to the community,” she said. “Understanding the
variety of challenges faced by library users whose
first language is not English, means designing and
delivering a service in consultation with culturally
and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities.”
Kathy says a Multicultural Librarian helps deliver
a proactive multicultural service that meets the
educational, recreational and social needs of the
different cultural communities in Marrickville.
“I think my job is worthwhile when I see young
mums constantly borrowing bilingual community
language picture books for their kids, or daughters
returning and borrowing Greek or Spanish books
on behalf of their elderly parents,” Kathy said.
Kathy was awarded the Multicultural Excellence
Award from Public Libraries NSW for improving
services for Marrickville’s culturally diverse
library users.
Adults & Seniors Librarian, Sue Pace
“The library offers far more than just recreational
reading,” Sue said. “There are health information
sessions, outreach activities in the community
for Law Week and Seniors Week as well as group
activities in the library such as Knit Together,
Marrickville Writers and Reminiscence group.”
“I also supervise the Home Library Service, which
delivers books to about 100 individual readers to
homes, retirement villages and nursing homes.”
“I’m always looking for new contacts and
resources to include in my programs. I try to
organise programs that will attract all age groups.
The Marrickville Writers Group has attracted
members from all ages and from different
cultural backgrounds.”
Acting Children and Youth Librarian,
Rose Collins
“I organise a lot of activities for children and
teenagers,” Rose said. “There’s weekly story time
and baby rhyme time sessions, school holiday
activities and Homework Help. Not to mention the
Children Book Week and Youth Week activities,
HSC Talks and the ongoing support provided to
local schools.”
“There’s always been a market for children’s
activities. It’s a great way to get kids to come to the
library and show them that it can be a recreational
facility.”
“It’s a happy job. The kids are always happy and
respond positively to the activities. It’s also nice to
promote literacy and get kids reading.”
Multicultural Librarian Kathy Yang with local resident Cindy Shi and her son Yaoshen Chen at Marrickville
Library. Photo: Rachael Brown.
ACCESS, TRAFFIC AND PARKING
How many car spaces will be provided?
The architectural concept designs include a
60-space underground car park.
Where is the entrance for the car park?
Via a two-way ramp from Livingstone Road.
Will this car park service the whole site, or just
the new Marrickville Library?
This parking allocation is for the new Marrickville
Library only. Underground parking will be provided
for future residential and commercial buildings.
How is the Library accessed from the car park?
The new Marrickville Library foyer will be
accessed from the car park via a lift and stairs. A
separate lift and stairs will provide direct access
from the car park to the park and forecourt.
4 Marrickville Matters March 2012
How has Council established that 60 car
parking spaces will be enough? In determining
parking provision, Council aims to strike a
balance between meeting parking demand
and constraining parking to encourage public
transport usage.
Will there be any vehicle access from Lilydale
Street? No – all vehicles will access the site from
Livingstone Road.
What are the other transport options?
Council will publish a Transport Access Guide
giving information on the multiple transport
options.
RICHER Communities
For every dollar spent on public libraries,
$4.24 of economic benefit is generated, and
$2.82 of real economic activity is generated.
Outcomes from Library Use (% of respondents)
Total
Generally enhanced my quality of life
64.5%
The findings come from a report released in March
2008 by the Library Council of NSW entitled,
Enriching communities: The value of public
libraries in New South Wales.
Enhanced my enjoyment from hobbies
47.8%
Helped me obtain information not available elsewhere
45.6%
Facilitated my pursuit of (informal) lifelong learning
41.9%
‘NSW public libraries generated
$810.2 million of economic activity
annually.’
Supported my children’s education
32.0%
Helped me accomplish tasks &/or achieve goals
30.9%
Fostered my sense of community or belonging
26.2%
The report states that library users saved $325
a year by borrowing, rather than purchasing,
materials like books and films. As well, NSW
public libraries generated $810.2 million of
economic activity annually. This included economic
transactions, salaries, purchasing, travelling costs,
redistribution of funds saved by borrowing library
items, and IT expenditure resulting from exposure
to library services.
If intangible factors such as the impact of
improved language and computer literacy could be
measured, the estimate of economic activity would
rise considerably.
Library users reported many economic, social,
cultural and environmental benefits. A large majority
said libraries encouraged responsible social
behaviour, ensured access to the internet for all,
promoted and encouraged language and computer
literacy, and improved the overall quality of life.
Many reported that their library membership
facilitated their lifelong learning and fostered their
sense of community or belonging.
More recently, the State Library of Victoria also
undertook a landmark study of the socio-economic
value of Victorian public libraries. The three year
project, Dollars, Sense and Public Libraries,
released in March last year, found that Victorian
public libraries return $356 for every $1 spent,
and that in 2007–08, the community benefit was
$681m against a cost of $191m.
Victoria library customers estimated that if they
had to pay for the services accessed at their library,
it would cost them an average of $419 per year.
Exposed me to a wider range of cultural activities
24.4%
Supported my children’s early (0 to 5 years) development
24.4%
Supported my involvement in educational courses
23.5%
Supported my involvement in community activities
21.7%
Enabled me to gain or improve my computer skills
16.2%
Made me more productive in my job
14.0%
Clarified my understanding of critical health information
12.9%
Assisted me to develop English language skills
8.9%
Helped me obtain a new job or promotion
8.1%
Encouraged me to get my own Internet account
6.8%
Clarified my understanding of critical legal information
5.3%
Helped me improve or start a business
5.1%
Helped me develop improved financial management skills
4.9%
Source: Enriching communities: The value of public libraries in New South Wales, State Library of NSW 2008 2008
Launch of 2010 Refugee Week at Marrickville Library. Photo: Wendy Kimpton
FAQ
Answers to your most frequently asked questions – so far – about the new Marrickville Library.
How high will the development be
on the site?
The new Marrickville Local
Environmental Plan (LEP) allows for a
nine-storey residential development on
the site, but the base of the buildings
must have sympathetic street-levels.
How much of the development will
be residential/commercial?
This is yet to be determined but it
is envisaged that the majority will
be residential, which will include
affordable housing. All housing is to
be built using private sector funds.
Are the buildings going to be as
tall as the former Nurses Quarters
building?
Yes, it is proposed to reuse or replace
the former Nurses Quarters with
a new residential building of the
same height.
When will the rest of the site be
developed?
Council will begin to develop plans for
the remainder of the site during 2012.
Timing of construction will depend on
many factors including the health of
the economy and likely demand for
residential units.
How much opportunity will residents
have to comment on the whole site?
Council will conduct thorough
community consultations. This will
include community forums, surveys,
focus groups, Have a Say Days, and
online forums.
What will happen to the branch
libraries if the New Marrickville
Library goes ahead?
There are no plans to close any of the
branch libraries.
Kids enjoying the free children’s holiday
activities at Dulwich Hill Library
Marrickville Matters March 2012 5
ADDING ART
TO THE PICTURE
The new Library has the potential to reinvigorate the old Marrickville
Hospital site - a neglected location - into a community hub and a place
of civic pride.
The vision for the new Marrickville
Library is of a building that is eyecatching, iconic, and yet welcoming.
To achieve this, the new Library
will showcase great design, strong
amenities, and popular meeting
places.
All three of the concept designs
(see front cover) feature expansive
and appealing open spaces where
the local community can gather for
performances or games like chess.
These spaces, as well as the spacious
cathedral-like interiors, are ideal for
public art installations which is why
Council is working on integrating a
range of key public artworks.
“The public art at the new library
should reflect and engage with the
local community, and contribute to the
development and understanding of
our local cultural identity and sense of
belonging,” Manager, Recreation and
Culture Services, Josephine Bennett
said.
“Council is particularly keen that
the art reflects Marrickville’s original
residents the Cadigal-Wangal people,
the different waves of migration we
have experienced over time, and our
rich history in the arts and humanities.
“The art should honour the people
whose creative lives have significantly
contributed to the area’s vibrancy,
and provide an insight for future
generations into who comprised
Marrickville when the new Library was
built,” Ms Bennett said.
For the past decade, Council has
been implementing the Marrickville
Public Art Strategy to build
Marrickville’s collection of sculpture,
murals, street art, paving, seating, and
temporary installations.
Some of Council’s more notable
public art installations include the
Newtown Artseat, the Silver Screen
Mermaid sculpture inspired by Annette
Kellerman at the AKAC and the Love
Food, Hate Waste mural.
Public art has the power to be
provocative whilst defining a space,
as in the case of the iconic ‘I Have a
Dream’ mural at King Street, Newtown.
The new Marrickville Library
presents an excellent opportunity to
further contribute to the collection and
provide a significant art experience
Love Food, Hate Waste mural on the wall of Alfalfa House in Enmore; Portuguese
ceramic mural in Audley Street Petersham; Newtown Art Seat in King Street; Silver
to challenge and engage the local
Screen Mermaid in the Annette Kellerman Aquatic Centre.
community.
What will a modern Library offer your community?
Esta Paschalidis-Chilas from the Metro Migrant Resource Centre:
A multicultural community space that is a focal point in Marrickville; space for people to gather that
acknowledges our Aboriginal history and also represents the diversity of our community. I think
it’s about pride - pride of place, where policy makers and community leaders can come together for
events like Naidoc Week and Refugee Week. Libraries are also critical to literacy development and an
appreciation of reading, being very important for our children and young people. We want it to be a
leading cultural space as well. We really are aiming for the sky.
Fr John Pearce of St Brigid’s Church and the Marrickville Multifaith Roundtable:
PORTAL TO THE PAST
Marrickville Libraries house
Council’s history services and
collections, where they can be
accessed for extended opening
hours and at more locations,
with book and ephemera
collections specific to each area
having been transferred to the
relevant library branch.
Clinton Johnston, Coordinator
History Services said the new
Marrickville Library will make a
significant difference to the care and
preservation of Marrickville’s local
history collection.
“It will also provide improved
facilities for access to the collection
for researchers as well as illustrating
the significance of the collection to
the Marrickville community through
talks, exhibitions and virtual
displays,” he said.
Council’s Archives are located in
Petersham Town Hall. These include
records of all the former Municipal
Councils whose boundaries now fall
within the Marrickville Council LGA, such
as Rate and Valuation books, Council
Minutes, and correspondence files.
This treasure trove is an
invaluable resource for researchers,
residents, and historians.
Between them, the History
Collection and the Archives illustrate
the social, cultural and physical
history of Marrickville area,
and contribute to a sense of place
and community.
SPEAKING
OUT
Libraries are no longer places
where users are ‘shushed’…quite
the opposite.
A place for personal or group study, meetings, and to explore common issues together – where current technology
helps people explore the world of learning, culture, information, and history. A ‘Civic Centre’ for people who need
more space than they have in their homes, units or flats. A focus on the lifestyle, culture and beliefs of the local
Indigenous people - where Indigenous people might rediscover some of their lost treasures, and appreciate more
of who they are, and where faith and culture come together. And, from the point of view of St Brigid’s Church and
Monastery which has stood proudly on this intersection for 90 years, a design that complements the colour, texture
and landscaping of St Brigid’s, making Marrickville and Livingstone Roads a major cross road for Marrickville.
Aunty Esther Carroll, Chairperson of the Marrickville Aboriginal Consultative Committee
and Marrickville Council’s 2012 Citizen of the Year:
What will a new Library offer our community? Heaps. Heaps! As well as the information, and a place to go and
browse around, it will also give our community a sense of self-worth and identity - a sense of belonging. When
Council has this new Library it will make members of our community feel much more a part of Marrickville. You can
go into any library and find out about the world, but a new modern Library, like for example the Waterloo Library,
has a focus on Indigenous history and it has the effect of making our community feel important.
6 Marrickville Matters March 2012
A library can be more than a silent
retreat.
information on a home or property,
Local history embodies and reflects
or researching family and social
identity and culture, according to
relationships.
Council’s Archivist Ben Arnfield.
One of the most popular services
“Collective social memory is
provided by Ben is compiling House
so important to any community.
Histories (for a fee). Of course,
Council’s Archives are a unique and
researchers are welcome to visit
irreplaceable heritage passed from
the Archives to conduct research
one generation to another,” he said.
themselves. Marrickville Council
“The people of Marrickville are
Archives is open to members of
fortunate to have access to such
the Public every Wednesday 9.30am
significant holdings of historic
to 5pm.
Council records, encompassing
Contact Marrickville Council
not only the records of Marrickville
Archives on 9335 2185.
Council, but also those of the former
St Peters and Petersham Councils,”
he said. “Recently UNESCO adopted
the Universal Declaration on Archives
in recognition of the importance of
archives in modern society.
“Open access to archives enriches
our knowledge of human society,
promotes democracy, protects
citizens’ rights and enhances our
quality of life,” Ben said.
Municipality of Marrickville Jubilee
UNESCO’s Universal Declaration
1911 Souvenir
on Archives, adopted in November
last year, states: [Archives] are
authoritative sources of information
underpinning accountable and
transparent administrative actions.
They play an essential role in
the development of societies by
safeguarding and contributing to
individual and community memory.
These are lofty ideals indeed.
However, most residents making
use of Council’s Archives are simply
interested in finding historical
The modern library is now a
place where people are actively
encouraged to talk, discuss, debate,
lecture, and even play.
“Libraries used to be quiet places
for reading but are now much more
about the exchange of ideas,” says
Robert Hutchinson, Vice President of
Marrickville Heritage Society.
Robert delivered a talk at
Marrickville Library on his book,
Marrickville potteries: Fowlers, Diana
and Studio Anna, that attracted a
jam-packed roomful of people from
all over Sydney.
“I’ve spoken at many Heritage
and Historical Societies, and the
University of the Third Age. The
Marrickville Library talk was very
successful, and great fun.
“It was terrific to see people
coming into the Library to look at
books and magazines, and then
pausing to listen to my talk.”
Once upon a time, libraries were
places for quiet reading, reflection
and research. Now they have evolved
into dynamic learning spaces
featuring seminars, workshops,
art and craft, and information
technology.
They are buzzing, high-energy
hubs with children’s play areas,
conversation spaces, and even
coffee shops.
For anyone who simply can’t
afford to sit at a wi-fi café with their
iPad while sipping a four dollar soy
latte, the public library is a godsend.
Libraries diminish the information
gap between the haves and have-nots
in our society. And they provide not
only free book and film rentals, but
also an increasingly long list of e-book
and digital reading options.
“While I’m a bit old-fashioned
and still think there’s nothing like
a library with books, the fact is that
now there is so much technology
these days that younger people and
students - young and old - make use
of the library computers to research
Top: Council Archivist
Ben Arnfield in
Council’s temperaturecontrolled Archives
room at Petersham
Town Hall. Above:
Marrickville Council,
Tickets for Select Dance
and Euchre Party, 1930.
Left: St Peters Council
1872 – 73 Rate Books
and write things up.
“Libraries have changed…that’s
the whole thing,” says Robert.
“The library is for all sorts of
people, of all ages. A library needs
designated spaces for children, and
different sized meeting rooms that
cater to different sized events.”
Design is crucial in achieving a
modern library’s aims. It should be
light, airy and attract a wide range of
people. The children’s area should
be fun and engaging so they feel
welcome and not intimidated – and
want to keep coming back to a library
for the rest of their lives.
“Unfortunately the current physical
Marrickville Library isn’t suited to the
role of a modern library,” says Robert.
“The new Library will be larger and
have more specific areas for children
and younger people, technology users and readers, and meetings and
activities.
“This is what it means to be a
great library in the 21st century.”
Marrickville Matters March 2012 7
Y
SURVE
New
Marrickville Library
The completed Annette Kellerman Aquatic Centre.
Photo credit: Richard Glover.
Marrickville Council would like to thank everyone who has, so far, contributed feedback on the new
Marrickville Library. A report based on your feedback regarding the proposal for a Special Rate
Variation will be considered by Council in June 2012. For further updates, and to view these reports
as they become available, visit Council’s website www.marrickville.nsw.gov.au
proposed Special rate variation
Council is asking for community
feedback on the proposal to increase
residential and business rates by
6.72 per cent above the annual rates
increase ($1.02 per week for residents
and $6.67 per week for businesses),
in order to pay for a new Library. This
survey seeks your feedback and will
take approximately three minutes to
complete.
1. Which of the following best describes you?
Please note the local Marrickville area includes:
Camperdown, Dulwich Hill, Enmore, Lewisham,
Marrickville, Newtown, Petersham, Stanmore,
St Peters, Sydenham and Tempe
I am a resident of the Marrickville local area,
but do not pay rates here
I am a resident and pay rates in the local area
I pay residential rates in the local area but do
not live here
I pay business rates in the local area
None of the above
2. How long have you lived or worked in the
local area?
Less than 6 months
6 months to 2 years
2 to 5 years
5 to 10 years
More than 10 years
3. How satisfied are you with the quality of
public buildings and infrastructure currently
provided by Marrickville Council?
Very satisfied
Satisfied
Neutral
Dissatisfied
Very dissatisfied
Other (please specify)
4. How satisfied are you with the level of service
currently provided by Marrickville Council?
Very satisfied
Satisfied
Neutral
Dissatisfied
Very dissatisfied
Other (please specify)
8 Marrickville Matters March 2012
5. How important do you believe it is for Council
to implement programs that will provide better
infrastructure and services in the future?
Critical
Very important
Quite Important
Moderately important
Not important
Unsure (please comment)
11. How important do you believe it is that
Marrickville Council is allowed to introduce this
special rate increase?
Critical
Very important
Quite important
Moderately important
Not important
Don’t know
6. Are you aware that ageing infrastructure was
identified as a major community issue in the
Community Strategic Plan 2021?
Yes
No
Don’t know
Other (please specify)
12. If Council were to increase rates by 6.72%
above the normal annual increases, would that
cause:
Extreme difficulty
Some difficulties
No problem
Would not notice the increase
Not sure
Other (please specify)
7. Do you agree that ageing infrastructure is an
important local issue?
Yes - I agree
No - I don’t agree
Maybe
Other (please specify)
8. Are you aware that Marrickville Council has
been planning to build a new library on the old
Marrickville hospital site?
Yes
No
Maybe
9. Have you provided feedback to Council about
the new library?
Yes - extensively
Yes - Some feedback
I have looked at the library information but
not provided feedback
I have not provided feedback
Other (please specify)
10. Overall, do you think that it is acceptable to
increase rates by $1.02 / week for residents and
$6.67 / week for businesses in order to build
the new library?
Yes
No
Maybe (please specify why)
13. If you would like to be informed of the
outcomes of this survey, please leave your details
below. The survey will be open to the end of May
2012. Feedback will be collated and presented to
Council at the June 2012 Council meeting. If there
is sufficient community support for a rate increase
Council will apply to the Independent Pricing and
Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) for approval. IPART is
the NSW government body that regulates special
rate increases.
Name
Address
Other Major Projects
Council last acquired a special rate variation (the Aquatics Levy) to help fund the state-of-the art Annette Kellerman Aquatic Centre, which
opened in January 2011, and the soon to be completed refurbishments for the Fanny Durack Aquatic Centre. Here we revisit the planning,
consultation and construction phases that led to what is now one of Marrickville Council’s most innovative, and popular, community facilities.
• In 2004, Marrickville Council
conducted an Aquatic Leisure
Facilities Feasibility Study that
identified the need to replace
Marrickville’s ageing aquatic facilities
with new high quality centres catering
for people of all ages and leisure
interests.
• This was followed by a first round
of community consultation that
concluded in early 2006.
• By February, Council had adopted
the budget for the original proposal
of a 25m pool funded through a $10
million special rates levy, and in mid2006 approved the Plans.
• In March 2008, an updated design
concept was put to Council after
vigorous community lobbying. This
design option was for a 50m pool, a
program pool and children’s/water
play pool. The updated plan also
included a multi-purpose area to be
used as a crèche and community
meeting room, a first floor gym
overlooking the pool hall, and a café.
• In May a new round of community
consultation on the design concept
began, and in June Council supported
the series of design changes.
• A ‘Have a Say Day’ was held in
January 2009, and in July Council
announced the Enmore Pool would
close on Sunday 12 July in preparation
for the $18 million redevelopment.
• Council commenced work on
12 August 2009 and signed a
contract with ADCO Constructions in
September who commenced work
soon after. Later that year, Marrickville
Council approved the installation
of a $200,000 solar array at AKAC,
making the development the most
ecologically sustainable aquatic
centre in Australia.
• In 2010 Council announced that
established artist Julia Davis had been
selected to install her sculptural piece
titled Eye Level at the new Annette
Kellerman Aquatic Centre.
• Swim50, one of the community
lobby groups that worked so hard for
the plans to include a 50 metre indoor
pool, inspected AKAC in November,
before the Centre finally opened its
doors to the public on Saturday 11
December, 2010.
The upgrade of the Fanny Durack
Aquatic Centre at Petersham was also
covered in the Marrickville Aquatic
Leisure Facilities Feasibility Study of
2004, which was presented to Council
in February 2006.
• At this meeting Council resolved to
adopt the Aquatic Upgrade Package
which included a 25-metre pool,
15-metre program pool, refurbished
foyer and changing rooms and
new café and deck at a total cost of
$2,615,624.
• Extensive work was undertaken to
develop a concept design which was
then on exhibition for public comment
in September and October 2009.
• The first stage of the works,
in Winter 2009, involved the
refurbishment of the amenities
building. The second stage, the
replacement of the pools and
infrastructure, will begin in April 2012.
Email
14. Please send me a fact sheet about:
The Special Rate Variation
Community feedback on the proposed
Special Rate Variation (summary of this
survey)
How rates are calculated
community feedback - what we’ve heard you
say so far about the new library
What’s expected to be in the new library
(design and services)
Our vision for the new library
Other (please specify)
WHAT YOU’VE TOLD US SO FAR
Since community consultations began in April 2011, Council has received feedback via online forums at www.yoursaymarrickville.com.au, community workshops,
‘Have Your Say’ days at the Marrickville Library and on the new site, presentations to community consultative committees, and through paper and online surveys.
Some of the common themes to emerge from the consultations were:
“Please give us more information on how the library
will be paid for. We feel that it is important that the area
gets a new library, but we want to know exactly how
much it will cost and how it will be paid for.”
“Our cultural history needs to
be reflected in the design and
services offered in the library.
This means both our Aboriginal
history and the history of
migration to the area.”
“Make sure that the library
takes into account the whole
of the rest of the site – not
just the one corner of the
old hospital site – and
that it blends well with the
surrounding areas.”
“Make sure traffic and parking are dealt
with, and that adequate parking and
sustainable transport options (bike parking
etc) are included in the final design.”
“The final design needs to
accommodate all the new services and
activities planned, but needs to be
flexible to accommodate the rapidly
changing face of modern libraries.”
“The community needs more meeting spaces and community venues in the new library.”
Marrickville Matters March 2012 9
Street
Smarts
Cleaner
Footpaths,
Happier
Residents
Marrickville Council has a new Councilowned, fully equipped ‘graffiti busting’
truck.
After a highly successful 12-month trial of
Council’s first graffiti removal truck - a hired
vehicle - Council decided to design ‘in-house’
a more economical truck that will give Council
even greater control and flexibility in removing
unsightly tags from the Marrickville streetscape.
Innovative design features of the new truck
include improved economy using B20 Bio diesel
fuel, the use of recycled water sourced from
Council rain water tanks, and a float system in the
truck’s water tank to prevent overuse and loss of
water.
The Mayor of Marrickville Councillor Morris
Hanna has signalled that one of the key issues he
wants to concentrate on is graffiti removal.
“It makes sense for Council to invest in our
own graffiti removal truck after the hired vehicle
proved to be both popular and effective,”
Councillor Hanna said.
“I want to congratulate Council’s Civil Works
crew on a great team effort in designing this new
truck. It has improved safety features such as a
reversing camera, and an electric winch. As well,
the new truck is more compact for manoeuvring in
our local narrow streets and lanes, and it can be
driven by anyone with a car licence. And because
we own the vehicle, it can display promotional
material for Council,” Councillor Hanna said.
Spring
Garden
winners
The Mayor Councillor Morris Hanna presented the awards in Council’s Citizens’ Service Centre Function
Room on Thursday 10 November.
Thomas Su of Petersham took out Best Front Garden for the second year running. “I think it’s an
honour. I was very pleased and surprised. It is recognition for all our hard work - that other people find
the garden worthy of reward.”
Enthusiastic gardeners of Marrickville make the local government area a more green and pleasant
place – none more so than ‘front’ gardeners. Thomas Su’s garden, while lush and verdant, is also low
maintenance and drought-tolerant.
“My garden is easy to care for and very water efficient. I like a formal garden with white or cream
flowers, but I didn’t want this garden to be too sterile, too perfect. There are three levels leading up to
the front of the house, and I use that to my advantage. The main attraction is the Echium, a flowering
blue plant. You rarely see them around Sydney. The rest is made up of lots of unusual flowers.”
Winner of Best Large Garden, Bruno Grasswill, lives on a busy intersection in Enmore. “Everyone who
walks past comments on the garden. They stop, they say, ‘I love your garden – thank you’. Sometimes
they ask if they can come and sit in the garden for five minutes, just to enjoy the space.”
Bruno has also previously won the Best Edible Garden category. Why does he keep entering? “It’s
good fun. It’s recognition of the hard work. When the Competition is coming up, I’m motivated to get the
garden into the best possible condition. And it sums up the local community spirit,” he said.
“But I always remember that it’s a reflection of the judge and the gardener’s tastes coinciding.
My style is all about green leaves – different size leaves. And about creating secret spots with little
pathways. My mother enjoyed gardening, and both my grandfathers were gardeners. Gardening is part
of my heritage.”
Best Courtyard Garden
Melanie Wilson, St Peters
Best Edible Garden
Michele Margolis, Enmore NSW
10 Marrickville Matters March 2012
Thomas Su’s front
garden in Petersham
Excellence in Inner West gardening was recognised and rewarded at the annual Marrickville
Council Spring Garden Competition.
The other winners of
the 2011 Spring Garden
Competition are:
(from left) Marrickville Council’s David Whatson, Team
Leader Ljube Petkovski, and General Manager Ken
Gainger. Photo: Elizabeth Heath
Our Council…
Our Summer
Mowing Program
Best School Garden –
equal first winners
Tempe Public School, Tempe
and
Ferncourt Public School,
Marrickville
Best Home Unit Garden
Berta Djenic, Enmore NSW
Best Commercial Premises
TAFE NSW Petersham College,
Petersham
Best Australian Native Garden
Jan & Trina Supit, Stanmore
Most Water Efficient Garden
Michele Margolis, Enmore
(from left) Bruno’s garden in Enmore won Best Large Garden, Bruno Grasswill in his garden, Equal first winner of
Best School garden, Tempe Public School.
Marrickville Council streetscape maintenance staff Lachlan Broadbent (back far left), Robert Gallardo (back second
left), and Max Lumsden (front centre), with Boystown’s on-site supervisor Mark Corry (in yellow). The Boystown
crew are Abigail Kris (front left), Logan Clarke (front right), and Chelsea Kirby (back far right). Photo: Corrie Ancone
Marrickville Council services include an
annual Streetscape Summer Mowing
Program. The program is resourced with extra
casual labour to meet the seasonal demand
and achieve the specified cycle targets of
three weeks in the summer season.
The aptly-named John Summergreene is Council’s
Coordinator Parks & Streetscape.
What is the Summer Mowing Program?
This Program is Council’s response to the
extraordinarily rapid rate of grass growth over
the summer months. Council increases the cycle
time for the servicing of the streets - mowing and
sweeping – from once every eight weeks, to once
every three weeks.
How demanding of Council is the Summer
Mowing Program?
To provide that one-in-every-three-week service
Council has to increase staff by up to six
additional crews. During summer the grass is
growing at such a rapid rate it’s hard to manage.
To leave it for even four weeks, often you’ll find
the grass will be 30 centimetres high!
How has Council coped with the extra demand
for labour in the past?
Council brings in casuals through recruitment
agencies. This year, one of the extra crews was
made up of the BoysTown group, who worked
alongside Council staff.
Why did Council opt for this partnership?
Council opted to partner with BoysTown as a
means of providing employment opportunities for
disadvantaged people. This year was a bit of trial
run – just one crew. We also have anything up to
five casual crews. It’s an opportunity for Council
to give something back to the community and try
these young people out for a number of months.
Rob Smart is the Transitional Employment
Manager NSW for BoysTown, a charitable
organisation with a mission to help young
people, who are marginalised and without a
voice, to improve their quality of life.
How did the partnership with Council come about?
Marrickville Council heard about the work
we do with Councils in western Sydney. For
the past 10 years, Marrickville has brought
in casual employees for the peak summer
mowing period, so this was an opportunity to
use a non-profit organisation to undertake the
work without affecting existing Council jobs.
From BoysTown point of view, how is this
advantageous?
It’s an opportunity for local youth to change
their personal situation and work in a real-life
environment. And BoysTown gets to provide
additional opportunities to engage the youth
in your area.
When Marrickville Council asked residents
about the issues of most importance to the
community, a huge 84% said improving
the condition of footpaths and cycleways.
With this in mind, Council set a target to
increase local satisfaction with the maintenance
of Council’s roads, footpaths, cycleways and
associated facilities.
Council’s comprehensive footpath sweeping
program is making footpaths in the local
government area cleaner, tidier and more
aesthetically pleasing.
Council recently purchased a fourth
mechanical footpath sweeper that targets
shopping centres and carparks, especially
during Autumn and Christmas.
The sweepers have improved the appearance
of local footpaths, but also reduced the amount
of litter in local drains and waterways.
Marrickville Council recently started using
TOHO9000 in some Council vehicles, a high
performance engine oil that reduces engine
wear and tear and provides cost savings and
environmental benefits including reducing
the number of oil changes, cutting fuel
consumption by 5 – 10%, and using fewer
filters. TOHO9000 means less waste oil
needs to be disposed of, and toxic exhaust
emissions are reduced. Council is using the
new oil additive in 15 garbage trucks, four
Green Machine footpath sweepers, and two
Council cars.
Describe to me a typical young person that
might be involved?
They are unemployed, on Centrelink benefits,
live in public housing, come from single parent
family, or have alcohol or drug issues. They
could be victims of domestic violence, and a few
of them may have been in trouble with the law.
About sixty per cent haven’t made it to Year Ten.
They’ve never entered the labour market, or
had direction in how to find work. No one’s
said to them, ‘You can do this - why don’t you
give it a go?’ They’re very disillusioned.
What sort of transformations do you see?
Self-esteem and motivation are the two
big things – the change in their attitudes in
what they are able to achieve. They just need
encouragement and training. Just because
they’ve been on our program they don’t
suddenly become model citizens – but there
is a reduction in anti social behaviour. They
become more productive members of society
and the employment market.
(left to right) Rob Gallardo, Jim Pamment,
Streetscape Supervisor Rick Crammon, and Lee
Toiaivao with Council’s fleet of footpath sweepers.
Photo: Rachael Brown.
Marrickville Matters March 2012 11
Twenty teenagers travelled to Marrickville Council’s
Sister City Larnaca late last year. The tour was
organised by the Stanmore Hawks Soccer Club, and
supported by Marrickville Council and the Cyprus
Community Club in Stanmore.
“The boys were blown away by the relaxed feel
of the city, the freedom they had to visit cafes and
wander around,” said President of the Hawks
Football Committee Tony Panteli. “They enjoyed
immersing themselves in the culture of their
parents’ and grandparents’. It was an unforgettable
experience for them.”
The trip was a football and cultural exchange
aimed at players of Cypriot or Greek heritage, 16
years and under. About fifteen adults accompanied
the teenagers.
John Sotiropoulos was captain of the Hawks
during the trip. He said they found both similarities
and the differences between their lives here in the
inner west, and those of their Laranaca peers. “In
the type of people - the Greeks and Cypriots - and
the food it was very similar. But we were surprised
at each others’ lifestyles. We live in the city and go
to school, then the shops, then go home. They go
to school then to the beach afterwards, and then
they stay up late with the family. Our lifestyle is
more regimented, and technology-influenced.
“Where we stayed was good because it was near
the training pitches, and our hotel was a bit smaller
so it fostered team bonding. But it was also near
the strip of restaurants, so we got to experience a
lot of what the locals do.
“It’s not very often that 16 year old boys get to go
on holidays and look after ourselves, and immerse
ourselves in another community and culture.
One of the main benefits was getting to know the
Larnaca boys and their lifestyles,” John said. “And
how Australia, although it’s different, has a lot of
similarities. That the way we live now, how we have
been brought up, is about where we come from.”
Toni Pantelli said the exchange was “fantastic. A
return visit is definitely on the cards.”
Esther Carroll is a well known and much-loved local
Aboriginal. She is actively involved in consultative
and strategic work with Council, the Metro Migrant
Resource Centre, and the wider community.
Heather Dunn is a member of Marrickville Youth
Council, an advocate for local young people, and a
member of the YMCA NSW Youth Parliament. She is
known for her great leadership and positivity.
Esther and Heather were presented with their
Citizens of the Year Awards at Council’s Australia
Day Celebrations at Enmore Park – exactly 72
years after the below photo was taken in Elizabeth
Street, Sydney.
“Dad took us to that protest. I’m proud these
men fought for our rights. It’s what we need now
– more people to get up and express an interest in
issues,” Esther said.
“I appreciate this Award because it is
Miranda van der Pol is a long-term resident
of the Marrickville local government area,
and an enthusiastic user of St Peters Library.
Originally from The Netherlands, she moved to
Australia permanently in 2002, and settled in
Stanmore with her partner Nicholas. They have
two children: Mae, who is six, and Emma, aged
four, (pictured above with Miranda).
Photo: Rachael Brown
What brought you to the Marrickville area?
Larnaca by night
Congratulations to Marrickville’s
Citizens of the Year
Aunty Esther Carroll and Heather Dunn are
Marrickville Council’s 2012 Citizen and Young
Citizen of the Year.
Miranda van der Pol
recognition for my contributing in some small
way.”
The Mayor of Marrickville Councillor Morris
Hanna said the committee awarded Esther with
2012 Citizen of the Year because of her tireless
work in building bridges between black and white
Australia.
“Esther is a person of great integrity who has an
exceptional commitment to advancing the needs
of her community. Despite all her achievements,
Aunty Esther is described as humble, heart-felt,
warm and genuine,” Councillor Hanna said.
“And Heather is a deserving winner because
she is working to better our local area for all young
people. She listens to and works with people from
all walks of life. She is a great asset to Marrickville,”
Councillor Hanna said.
Heather says the award is highly gratifying. “It
signifies that what I’ve been trying to do with giving
youth a voice has paid off,” she said. “That what
I’m doing has a purpose.”
When my husband and I decided to settle
permanently in Australia after living in Amsterdam
for a year, we returned to Sydney and started to look
around for where we might like to live. We had lived
in Kensington, but some of our friends had moved to
Newtown-Stanmore area which we really liked.
Where have you lived?
We ended up in Stanmore, which we really enjoyed
and stayed for nine years. Six months ago we moved
to Dulwich Hill to a place with more space. They are
both great suburbs – they are quite similar in a lot
of ways.
What do you like to do in your
leisure time?
We use lots of the parks, especially the ones close
to our previous place like Montague Gardens on
Cambridge Street, Ryan Park on Stanmore Road and
Weekley Park. Now we have moved to Dulwich Hill,
we use Johnson Park. The Waterplay Park at Steel
Park is another favourite. Emma told me the other
day that she’s too big now, but for years I took her
and her sister Mae to the Magic Yellow Bus [the
mobile play group run by Marrickville Council] in
Tillman Park in Tempe on Tuesday mornings. We love
going to Petersham Pool in the warmer months and
we use St Peters Library a lot.
What do you use the St Peters Library for?
My best friend Marloes is also originally from The
Netherlands, and she was a regular at the Library
because she used to live in Tempe. She suggested I
take Emma to see how she liked Preschool Storytime
and the arts and crafts activities run by Katina. Well,
Emma absolutely loved it. So we’ve been going there
regularly ever since. I really like St Peters Library
because it’s small and personal. Katina is fantastic.
What about your older child?
(left to right): A three year old Esther Carroll (front row second from left) at the first Day of Mourning protest on
Australia Day 1938. Heather Dunn and Aunty Esther Carroll, Marrickville Council’s 2012 Citizen and Young Citizen of
the Year. Photo: Rachael Brown.
12 Marrickville Matters March 2012
Mae recently started at Dulwich Hill Public School.
Before that, she was at Stanmore Public. We used
the Stanmore Out of School Hours Care and Holiday
Care services, both of which are run by Marrickville
Council. Really we are very lucky, because it’s a great
Council for families with young kids.
events calendar
Young soccer players from Sydney’s inner
west have immersed themselves in their
Cypriot heritage.
one life
Cultural Exchange
MARCH
2012
1 – 31 March
5 March
5 March
March Sport-aMonth is AFL.
Baby Rhyme Time
Preschool Storytime
10.30am every Monday
at Marrickville Library
(except Public Holidays).
Baby Rhyme Time
introduces children to
the joys of literature
and language. Bookings
open 9.30am on the day.
Phone 9335 2175.
10.45am every Monday
at Dulwich Hill Library
(except Public Holidays).
Stories read aloud,
songs and rhymes and
a simple craft. Bookings
essential on the day on
9335 2182.
To register, contact
Council’s Recreation
Officer on 9335 2191
6 March
6 March
7 March
8 March
8 March
English
conversation class
Preschool Storytime
Preschool Storytime
10.15am and 11am
every Wednesday at
Marrickville Library
(except Public Holidays).
Bookings essential on
the day on 9335 2182.
International
Women’s Day
Baby Rhyme Time
11am every Tuesday
at Stanmore Library
(except Public Holidays).
Bookings essential on
the day on 9335 2182.
1 – 3pm
Marrickville Library.
Phone 9335 2166
Council commemorates
IWD annually with a local
event celebrating the role
of women in public life.
Visit the IWD page for
more information.
10.30am every Thursday
at Marrickville Library.
Bookings open 9.30am
on day of session.
Phone 9335 2175.
10 March
11 March
14 March
18 March
Water Sensitive
Urban Design:
Part Two
Bairro Português Petersham Food &
Wine Fair
Rainwater
Harvesting
Workshop
Seniors Week
This workshop gives
participants the
confidence and skill to
create water sensitive
design for their own
homes. Bookings
essential on 9335 2222.
10am – 6pm
A must-do activity
for the Portuguese
community and residents
of Petersham and
surrounding areas.
Find out what’s involved
in designing and
maintaining a domestic
rainwater harvesting
system. Free.
Bookings are essential
on 9335 2222.
1 – 30 April
13 April
14 – 29 April
15 April
April Sport-a-Month
is Family Soccer
Youth Week
2012 National Trust
Heritage Festival
The Break
31 March
Earth Hour
Marrickville Council will
again support Earth Hour
and encourage residents
and businesses to
switch off lights between
8.30pm – 9.30pm
APRIL
2011
To register, contact
Council’s Recreation
Officer on 9335 2191
Council hosts a range
of activities from Friday
13 – 22 April.
Phone 9335 2158
18 April
26 April
26 April
House History
Workshop
2012 Marrickville
Medal for
Conservation
Marrickville
Vietnamese
Butchers Project
11am – 12.30pm.
Workshops are for
a maximum of six
participants. Bookings
essential on 9335 2185.
Council celebrates the
contribution older people
make with a program of
activities from 18 – 25
March. Phone 9335 2155.
Council’s Library and
History Services will
celebrate the Festival with
a series of events that
reflect the theme, Amazing
Stories: Innovation &
Invention. See Library
website for details.
MAY
2012
1 – 31 May
May Sport-a-Month
is Marrickville PCYC
At Debbie & Abbey
Borgia Recreation
Community Centre sports
(various - see website).
To register, contact
Council’s Recreation
Officer on 9335 2191
11am – 12.30pm at
Marrickville Library.
The unique story of
Marrickville’s first
Vietnamese butchers is a
fascinating and modern
chapter in Marrickville’s
ever-evolving food culture.
6pm – 8.30pm at
Marrickville Town Hall.
Record bookings on 9335
2172
12 May
16 May
18 May
23 May
23 – 25 May
Household
Chemical Cleanout
and e-Waste drop
off day
Healthy Ageing
Talks
Walk Safely to
School Day
National
Simultaneous
Storytime
Library Book Sale
Marrickville Council
Works Depot.
At Marrickville Library.
For more information call
9335 2143.
11am. See Council’s
Libraries and History
Services web page.
A free, all ages, youth
oriented outdoor music
festival run by Council
featuring emerging local
bands. Visit Council’s
webpage for more
information.
Marrickville Town Hall.
For more information
on these events, call
Council’s Citizens’
Service Centre on
9335 2222 or visit
www.marrickville.nsw.
gov.au
For more
information on
these events,
call Council’s
Citizens’
Service Centre
on 9335 2222
or visit www.
marrickville.
nsw.gov.au
Marrickville Matters March 2012 13
1
2
Council Services
Citizens’ Service Centre
You can: • ask a question
• request a service
• obtain an approval
• make a payment
• get information
• provide feedback
• book a facility
Ground Floor, Administration Centre
2-14 Fisher Street, Petersham
Hours: 8.30am-5pm, Mon to Fri
Phone: 9335 2222 (24 hrs, 7 days
except public holidays)
Fax: 9335 2029
Resource Recovery Services
Weekly garbage and fortnightly
recycling and green waste
collection for residents. Free
clean-up service for household
and white/metal goods. Bookings
essential. Phone: 9335 2137
Reporting breaches
Report concerns and get advice on
neighbouring building works at the
Citizens’ Service Centre.
Phone: 9335 2222
Web: www.marrickville.nsw.gov.au
(go to ‘request a service’ and fill in
the form)
around the
community
1. Santa dropped in to Marrickville Library on 15
December to the delight of Preschool Storytimers
2. Nathan Elliot and Amelie Tuften made Dangly
Monster Mobiles at Dulwich Hill Library Holiday
Activities for Kids in January
4
Meals on Wheels
Home delivered nutritious meals, 7
days a week for the frail, aged and
people with disabilities. Ethnic and
special diets catered for.
Phone: 9335 2153
Central Ward
Marrickville Council
Annette Kellerman
Aquatic Centre
Black Street, Enmore Park
Phone: 9565 1906
www.akac.com.au
COUNCIL ARCHIVES
Marrickville Council Archives.
Open each Wednesday from
9.30am – 5.00pm. For more
information please call 9335 2185.
Halls and Room Hire
Marrickville and Petersham Town
Halls and a number of meeting
rooms are available for hire.
Phone: 9335 2222
Marrickville Matters
Marrickville Matters is published
quarterly in March, May, September
and December. Non-commercial
community events or activities may
be submitted for inclusion in the
‘Around the Community’ section.
Contact the Media and Publications
Coordinator on 9335 2047.
Children and Family Services
Council operates a range of services
for children and families which
includes Long Day Care, Pre-school,
Family Day Care, The Magic Yellow
Bus mobile playgroup service,
Before and After School Care and
Vacation Care programs.
Phone: 9335 2222
north Ward
Libraries
Marrickville Central
Cnr Marrickville and
Petersham Roads
Mon to Fri 10am-8.30pm
Sat 9.30am-5pm
Sun 1pm-4pm
Phone: 9335 2173
Fax: 9335 2189
Dulwich Hill Branch
12-14 Seaview Street
Mon to Wed 10am-5.30pm
Thurs 12.30pm-8pm
Sat 9am-12pm
Fri and Sun closed
Phone: 9335 2182
Fax: 9564 2543
Stanmore Branch
Douglas Street
Mon to Wed 10am-5.30pm
Thurs 12.30pm-8pm
Sat 9am-12pm
Fri and Sun closed
Phone/Fax: 9335 2183
St Peters/Sydenham Branch
St Peters Town Hall
39 Unwins Bridge Rd,
Sydenham
Mon to Wed 10am-5.30pm
Thurs 12.30pm-8pm
Sat 9am-12pm
Fri and Sun closed
Phone/Fax: 9335 2184
Council Offices
Administration Centre
& Citizens’ Service Centre
2-14 Fisher Street,
Petersham NSW 2049
Hours: 8.30am-5pm
Monday to Friday
Phone: 9335 2222
(24 hours, 7 days except public holidays)
Fax: 9335 2029
Email:
council@marrickville.nsw.gov.au
Web: www.marrickville.nsw.gov.au
TTY: 9335 2025
(for deaf & hearing impaired people)
Postal Address:
Marrickville Council
PO Box 14
Petersham, NSW 2049
All correspondence should be addressed
to the General Manager.
Council Meetings
1st Tuesday of each month
6.30pm – Development Assessment
Committee and Council Development
Matters Meetings.
2nd Tuesday of each month
6.30pm – Land Use, Assets and
Corporate Committee Meetings and
Services Committee Meetings.
south Ward
west Ward
Note: the Services Committee Meeting
commences at the conclusion of the
Land Use, Assets and Corporate
Committee Meeting.
3rd Tuesday of each month
6.30pm – Ordinary Council Meetings.
3. Marrickville Council residents Angela Caldwell,
her daughter Jessica Tory and grandson Hugo
visited the panels dedicated to their distant
relative Annette Kellerman recently at AKAC.
Photos: Rachael Brown
4. Cumbiamuffin kept audiences entertained on
Australia Day
5. Young locals enjoy the Australia Day Festivities
3
6. Capping off Australia Day with fireworks
Photos: Wendy Kimpton
5
6
Sam Iskandar, Dpty Mayor
Ph 0408 210 618
Fax 9954 7841
Fiona Byrne
Ph 0401 719 120
Fax 9335 2029
Morris Hanna, Mayor, OAM
Ph 0417 660 997
Fax 9550 0636
Marika Kontellis
Ph 0409 076 708
Fax 9335 2029
Victor Macri
Ph 0408 219 260
Fax 9569 8750
Cathy Peters
Ph 0419 444 974
Fax 9335 2029
Peter Olive
Ph 0401 719 148
Fax 9559 6098
Dimitrios Thanos
Ph 0414 403 173
Fax 9550 0849
Max Phillips
Ph 0419 444 916
Fax 9335 2029
14 Marrickville Matters March 2012
Laura Wright
Ph 0419 444 560
Fax 9335 2029
Mary O’Sullivan
Ph 0419 444 889
Fax 9335 2029
Emanuel Tsardoulias
Ph 0432 684 120
Fax 9335 2029
Printed on 100% recycled paper.
Marrickville Matters
design and production by
10 group, ph 02 9550 1021
www.10group.com.au
Marrickville Council ABN 52 659 768 527
Marrickville Matters March 2012 15
ENGLISH
Welcome to this special edition of Marrickville
Matters which is largely dedicated to the new
Marrickville Library. Our cover features three
concept designs submitted by architectural
firms who have created a vision for the new
library in consultation with Council’s Major
Projects and library staff, as well as the
community.
In addition to how a modern day Marrickville
Library might look, this edition proposes answers
to questions about how it would function, what
transport and access issues would need to be
considered and how it might be funded.
Council estimates it will cost $30 million, with
Council’s existing reserves covering $7 million
of the total cost. This means Council must find
additional funds of up to $23 million. Council
will be considering whether to raise these funds
via a special rate variation of 6.72% (an average
of $1 per week for residents and $6.67/week
for businesses for a period of 15 years) and is
interested in your feedback (pg 2-3).
Without a special rate increase, Council will
have insufficient funds to build the new Library.
To tell us what you think of the SRV, turn to
the survey on page 8.
Also in this issue, our Citizens of the Year
(p12), Spring Garden Competition winners
(p10), and Council’s joint venture with the
charity BoysTown (p11).
For more information visit Marrickville
Council’s Citizen’s Service Centre at 2-14 Fisher
Street, Petersham or phone 9335 2222. The
Translator Interpreter Service is also available.
Greek
Καλώς ήρθατε σ’ αυτή την ειδική έκδοση του Θέματα
του Μάρικβιλ [Marrickville Matters] που είναι σε μεγάλο
βαθμό αφιερωμένη στη νέα Βιβλιοθήκη του Μάρικβιλ.
Το εξώφυλλό μας παρουσιάζει τρία σχέδια που έχουν
υποβληθεί από αρχιτεκτονικά γραφεία που έχουν
δημιουργήσει ένα όραμα για τη νέα βιβλιοθήκη, σε
διαβούλευση με το προσωπικό των Μεγάλων Έργων
του Δήμου κι αυτού της βιβλιοθήκης, καθώς και με την
κοινότητα.
ARABIC
Marrickville ‫مرحباً بكم في هذا العدد الخاص من‬
.‫ المخصص بصفة أساسية لمكتبة ماريكفيل الجديدة‬Matters
‫يضم غالفنا ثالثة تصميمات هندسية قدمتها شركات معمارية‬
‫وضعت رؤية للمكتبة الجديدة بالتشاور مع مسؤولي المشاريع‬
.‫ وكذا المجتمع‬،‫الكبرى التابعين للمجلس وطاقم المكتبة‬
،‫وباإلضافة إلى الشكل الذي قد تبدو عليه مكتبة ماريكفيل‬
‫يقترح هذا العدد إجابات لألسئلة حول كيفية عمل المكتبة‬
.‫ومشكالت النقل والوصول التي يلزم دراستها وكيفية تمويلها‬
30 ‫يُق ّدر المجلس أن تكلفة إنشاء المكتبة الجديدة ستصل إلى‬
7 ‫ حيث تغطي االحتياطيات الحالية للمجلس‬،‫مليون دوالر‬
‫ وهذا يعني أنه يتعين على‬.‫مليون دوالر من التكلفة اإلجمالية‬
ً
.‫ مليون دوالر‬23 ‫أمواال إضافية تصل إلى‬
‫المجلس أن يجد‬
‫سوف يدرس المجلس ما إذا كان سيجمع هذه األموال من‬
‫ (بمتوسط‬%6.72 ‫خالل زيادة رسوم المجلس الخاصة بنسبة‬
‫األسبوع‬/‫ دوالر‬6.67‫ دوالر في األسبوع للسكان و‬1
‫ سنة) ويتطلع إلى تلقي آرائكم (الصفحة‬15 ‫للشركات لفترة‬
.)203
除了介绍马力围图书馆的现代化外观外，本
刊也将讨论其运作、交通、使用以及筹资等
各个方面需要考虑的问题。
据市议会估计，新图书馆项目将总共花费
3000 万澳元。目前市议会自有资金约为 700
万澳元。这意味着市议会必须另外筹措多达
2300 万澳元的额外资金。市议会将考虑是否
要通过 6.72% 的特别税费计划（居民平均 1
澳元/周，企业平均 6.67 澳元/周，持续收取
15 年）来募集此项资金，并期待您的反馈（
第 2-3 页）。
如果不特别提高地方税费，市议会将无法筹
集到足够的资金兴建新图书馆。
‫ وكذا‬،‫إلطالعنا على آرائكم بشأن زيادة الرسوم الخاصة‬
‫ يرجى التوجه إلى االستطالع‬،‫إخبارنا باحتياجاتكم من المكتبة‬
.8 ‫في الصفحة‬
请翻到第 8 页参与调查，告诉我们您对 SRV
（special rate variation，特别税费计划）的
看法以及对新图书馆的要求。
،)12 ‫ مواطنو العام (الصفحة‬،‫تجدون في هذا العدد كذلك‬
‫ ومشروع‬،)10 ‫والفائزون في مسابقة حدائق الربيع (الصفحة‬
BoysTown ‫المجلس المشترك مع المؤسسة الخيرية‬
.)11 ‫(الصفحة‬
在这一期的杂志里，您还将会看到以下信息：
《年度居民》（第 12 页）、《春季园艺竞赛
获奖选手》（第 10 页）以及《市议会与慈善
机构 BoysTown 的合资企业》（第 11 页）。
،‫إذا كنتم تودون المساعدة في أي معلومات في هذه النشرة‬
‫فيرجى الحضور إلى مركز خدمة المواطنين التابع لمجلس‬
‫ أو‬2-14Fisher Street, Petersham‫ماريكفيل على‬
‫ تتوافر كذلك خدمة الترجمة‬.9335 222 ‫االتصال على رقم‬
.‫الشفهية والتحريرية‬
如果您在阅读本出版物的任何信息时需要
帮助，请亲临马力围市议会居民服务中心
（Council’s Citizens’ Service Centre）。地址
是：2-14 Fisher Street, Petersham，或致电
9335 2222。我们备有翻译与传译服务。
Portuguese
Bem-vindo à publicação Marrickville Matters
dedicada principalmente à nova Biblioteca de
Marrickville. Nossa capa mostra três designs de
conceito apresentados pelas firmas de arquitetura
que criaram uma visão para a nova biblioteca
através de consultas junto ao setor de Grandes
Projetos da Câmara e equipe da biblioteca, bem
como à comunidade.
Além de uma aparência moderna para a Biblioteca
de Marrickville, esta edição propõe respostas para
perguntas sobre como será o funcionamento, que
questões sobre transportes e acesso precisam ser
consideradas e como o projeto será financiado.
Ο Δήμος εκτιμά ότι θα κοστίσει $30 εκ. δολάρια, με τα
υπάρχοντα αποθέματά του να καλύπτουν τα $7 εκ.
του συνολικού κόστους. Αυτό σημαίνει ότι ο Δήμος
θα πρέπει να βρει επιπλέον κεφάλαια ύψους έως
$23 εκ. δολάρια. Ο Δήμος θα εξετάσει αν θα αυξήσει
τα κεφάλαια αυτά μέσω μιας ειδικής αύξησης των
δημοτικών τελών της τάξης του 6,72% (κατά μέσο όρο 1
δολάριο την εβδομάδα για τους κατοίκους και $ 6.67 την
εβδομάδα για τις επιχειρήσεις για διάστημα 15 χρόνων)
και, ενδιαφέρεται ν’ ακούσει τα σχόλιά σας (σελ. 2-3 ).
A Câmara estima que serão gastos $30 milhões,
com as reservas existentes da Câmara cobrindo $7
milhões do custo total. Isso significa que a Câmara
deverá levantar recursos da ordem de $23 milhões.
A Câmara está considerando a geração desses
recursos através de um aumento especial de
imposto de 6,72% (uma média de $1 por semana
para os residentes e $6,67/semana para empresas
em um período de 15 anos) e está interessada em
sua opinião (pag. 2-3).
Χωρίς την ειδική αύξηση των δημοτικών τελών, ο Δήμος
δεν θα έχει αρκετά χρήματα για να κατασκευάσει τη νέα
Βιβλιοθήκη.
Sem um aumento especial de imposto (SRV) a
Câmara não terá fundos suficientes para construir a
nova Biblioteca.
Για να μας πείτε τι νομίζετε για την ειδική αύξηση των
δημοτικών τελών, καθώς και για να μας πείτε ποιες είναι
οι ανάγκες σας από τη βιβλιοθήκη, γυρίστε στη σελίδα 8
για να διαβάσετε την έρευνα.
Diga-nos sua opinião sobre o SRV, e informe-nos
também quais as necessidades da biblioteca, vá
até a pesquisa da página 8.
Αν θέλετε βοήθεια σχετικά με οποιαδήποτε πληροφορία
σε αυτή την έκδοση, παρακαλούμε ελάτε στο Κέντρο
Εξυπηρέτησης Πολιτών του Δήμου Μάρκβιλ στο
2-14 Fisher Street, Petersham, ή καλέστε στο 9335
2222. Διατίθεται επίσης η Υπηρεσία Διερμηνέων και
Μεταφραστών.
本期《马力围事务专刊》将重点讨论马力围
新图书馆的相关事宜，欢迎翻阅。本期封面
登载了来自几大建筑公司的三个概念设计。
在与市议会重大项目专员、图书馆员工以及
社区人士磋商后，这些建筑公司为新图书馆
提出了他们的这些规划方案。
‫ لن تكون لدى المجلس‬،‫وبدون زيادة خاصة في رسوم المجلس‬
.‫األموال الكافية لبناء المكتبة الجديدة‬
Εκτός από το πώς μπορεί να μοιάζει η σύγχρονη
Βιβλιοθήκη του Μάρικβιλ, η έκδοση αυτή προτείνει
απαντήσεις σε ερωτήματα σχετικά με το πώς θα
λειτουργήσει, ποια θέματα μεταφοράς και πρόσβασης
θα πρέπει να εξεταστούν και πώς θα μπορούσε να
χρηματοδοτηθεί.
Επίσης, σ’ αυτή την έκδοση δείτε τους Πολίτες
της Χρονιάς (σ.12), τους νικητές του Ανοιξιάτικου
Διαγωνισμού Κήπων (σ. 10), καθώς και την
κοινοπραξία του Δήμου με τη φιλανθρωπική οργάνωση
BoysTown (σ. 11).
CHINESE
Também nesta edição, nossos Cidadãos do
Ano (pag. 12), os vencedores da Spring Garden
Competition (pag. 10) e a associação da Câmara
com a instituição beneficente BoysTown (pag. 11).
Se desejar nos ajudar com quaisquer informações
para esta publicação, venha até o Centro de
Serviços ao Cidadão da Câmara de Marrickville
no endereço 2-14 Fisher Street, Petersham, ou
telefone para 9335 2222. Um serviço de intérprete e
tradução também está disponível.
vietnamese
Xin mời quý vị đọc đặc san Marrickville Matters
số đặc biệt, chủ yếu đăng thông tin về Thư viện
Marrickville mới. Hình bìa có ba ý tưởng thiết kế mà
các công ty kiến trúc đã nộp. Các công ty này đã
vẽ kiểu cho thư viện mới theo ý kiến của nhân viên
thư viện và các Dự án Lớn của Hội đồng Thành phố
cũng như cộng đồng.
Ngoài khía cạnh Thư viện Marrickville nhìn tân kỳ,
số báo này giải đáp các câu hỏi về tính năng của
thư viện mới, những vấn đề đi lại và sử dụng cần
phải cân nhắc và chi trả chi phí xây cất bằng cách
nào.
Theo ước tính của Hội đồng Thành phố, chi phí xây
thư viện mới là 30 triệu đô-la, Hội đồng Thành phố
trích7 triệu đô-la trong ngân quỹ dự trữ hiện nay.
Như vậy Hội đồng Thành phố cần phải có thêm tới
23 triệu đô-la. Hội đồng Thành phố sẽ xét liệu có
thể có được số tiền này bằng cách tăng thuế địa
phương ngoại lệ 6,72% (trung bình 1 đô-la mỗi tuần
lễ diện cư dân và 6,67 đô-la / tuần lễ diện doanh
nghiệp trong thời gian 15 năm) và muốn biết ý kiến
của quý vị (tr. 2-3).
Nếu không tăng thuế địa phương ngoại lệ, Hội đồng
Thành phố sẽ không có đủ tiền trang trải chi phí xây
Thư viện mới.
Hãy cho chúng tôi biết ý kiến của quý vị về việc
tăng thuế địa phương ngoại lệ (SRV), cũng như cho
chúng tôi biết nhu cầu của quý vị đối với thư viện
là những gì, xin lật tới bản câu hỏi thăm dò ý kiến
ở trang 8.
Ngoài ra trong số báo này cũng đăng Công dân
Tiêu biểu Toàn Năm (tr. 12), những người đoạt giải
Vườn Mùa Xuân (tr. 10), và liên doanh giữa Hội
đồng Thành phố và hội từ thiện BoysTown (tr. 11).
Nếu muốn có người giúp quý vị về bất kỳ thông
tin nào trong số báo này, xin quý vị tới Trung tâm
Công dân của Hội đồng Thành phố Marrickville số
2-14 Fisher Street, Petersham, hoặc gọi 9335 2222.
Ngoài ra còn có Dịch vụ Thông Phiên dịch.
If you have problems reading the print size of Marrickville Matters, visit Council’s website to
read a copy with larger text, or to listen to the audio version. www.marrickville.nsw.gov.au
16 Marrickville Matters March 2012