Floating Christmas Tree to lift spirits early this year

CHRISTMAS spirit

I think it’s fair to say that recently it feels like we don’t know whether we’re coming or going, as Greater Geelong hops in and out of lockdown.

It’s a relief that our region has again left tight restrictions and we pick back up on a somewhat “normal” life, whether that’s popping down to your favourite café or restaurant, getting a much-needed haircut or travelling freely around regional Victoria.

Seeing family and friends again is no doubt one of the best freedoms and most guaranteed to put a smile on our faces.

My family and I are really looking forward to exploring our town again this weekend and an evening meal at a local restaurant is certainly on the cards.

There are community members of all ages feeling a little down lately, with many expressing just how relentless and mentally draining the pandemic is.

We at Council recognise the strain the community is feeling and so I’m excited to reveal that with the festive season fast approaching, some of our favourite elements of the Christmas in Geelong program might be arriving a little earlier this year.

That includes our beautiful Floating Christmas Tree at the Waterfront!

We’re hoping this news will lift the community’s spirits somewhat and bring some joy to both locals and visitors.

The social and academic lives of children in Greater Geelong have been disrupted again in 2021, which is why we anticipate an early injection of Christmas cheer may brighten their outlook as we head into this normally festive time of the year.

Bringing forward parts of the program may also provide a much-needed economic boost to Central Geelong businesses.

It will encourage people to stay in the area longer, by perhaps making a day of it and heading to the shops or enjoying a coffee at the Waterfront, overlooking our spectacular tree.

Osborne House

As chair of the Osborne House portfolio, it’s a real pleasure to see the work that’s taken place at the historic house and stables in North Geelong.

The precinct holds Wadawurrung significance, as well as architectural, maritime, pastoralist and council heritage value.

It really is a special place to visit, with buildings from the 1800s set atop the sprawling Corio Bay.

Council has funded more than $500,000 in renovations and safety upgrades, which form the first step in a major redevelopment of the site.

The stable walls have been underpinned and stabilised, while repairs have been made to
the façade.

A total of 40 windows and more than 40 French doors have been repaired or replaced throughout the main bluestone building.

A new fire detection system is now linked with a security system, which is now monitored
off-site.

There’s more work to be done to return this precinct to its former glory.

Discussions continue with potential partners on their clever and creative ideas on the buildings’ restoration and the precinct’s future use.

Play time fun

August offered the opportunity for Brownbill Ward locals to have their say on concept plans for a new and improved playground at Hammersley Reserve in Bell Park.

Thanks to everyone who shared their thoughts on the plans, which featured an expanded play space with several types of climbing equipment, monkey bars and a slide.

Extra trees, a new path, drinking taps and relocated seating are also on the cards.

The feedback is being analysed before the final design is locked in with designers. What is promising about all the feedback and ideas that we received, is that now we can incorporate these into future development plans and works for this community space.

I’m excited to see work get under way and I’m sure the children of Bell Park and its surrounds can’t wait to explore the new digs.

If you have something to discuss, please get in touch with me at [email protected]

Cr Eddy Kontelj
Brownbill Ward