Minutes of the Annual General Meeting of the Kensington Association held 7 August 2006

Apologies:  Megan Davison, Lydia Kaularic, Fincina Hopgood, Christian Thorn, Amanda Swaney, Sn Sgt Langdon

1.  South Kensington Station
The Association has received a concept redevelopment plan for this station, which is one of a number of stations being improved. Michael Rowell reported that funding for upgrades is limited and will fund minor works such as handrails, mirrors, landscaping, bike racks and resurfacing of the surrounding asphalt.  No date has been set for to commencement.

2.  Kensington Action Plan
Officers from Melbourne and Moonee Valley councils addressed the meeting about the current status of the Action Plan, which identifies areas where the two councils can cooperate to address issues involving all of Kensington. The draft plan lists some proposed 130 actions, including re-development of the South Kensington Station, a community garden and school travel schemes.  The Chairperson and Secretary will meet council officers to comment on the draft in detail.

3. Development application in Simpsons Walk
The Association resolved to reiterate its objection to the proposal for a 3rd level to the property, on the grounds that it contravenes existing height overlays in the Banks.  The Chairperson will contact MCC Councillors on the matter.  

4.  “Welcome to Kensington” project
The Project Worker, Carolyn Webster, presented proposals. The kit, intended for new arrivals to Kensington, will include travel maps, essential and non-essential services guides, information about not-for-profit organizations, club information, a copy of the Flem/Ken News and a welcome letter from the Chairman of the Kensington Association.  Carolyn will press forward with the project, keeping the Steering Committee informed.

5.  Public open space near Maribynong Stock Bridge  
Work has commenced to convert this parcel of land into a park.  

6.  Police Community Consultative Committee
Victoria Police will present a Community Safety Day, 22 October at Docklands.  Police will fix car number plate security screws free, and there will be activities relating to road safety awareness.  The Police Band will entertain participants.  Residents with an interest in crime prevention and community safely are encouraged to attend this event.

7.  MCC and Police Emergency Management
The City of Melbourne and Victoria Police are interested in providing a community meeting focusing on the management of emergencies, such as the Coode Island petrochemical fire.  The Association will
pass on the location and time of the planned meeting when received.

8.  Community Notice board
The Association is considering providing a community notice board to publicize community events.  Fiona Burns is investigating.  Further developments regarding this proposal to be discussed at upcoming meetings

9.  Christmas in Bellair Street
Some residents are suggesting a Christmas festival in Bellair Street, possibly incorporating arts, music, craft, food and “representing the rich tapestry of cultures that is Kensington”.  Members indicated interest in hearing more about such an event.  Fiona Burns to report back at a future meeting.

10.  The future of the North Melbourne Recreation Reserve
Association representative, Clive Gartner, reported on discussions in the committee examining this issue.  Demolition of the old toilet block and turnstiles betting sheds and portable building have been demolished or burned. A major decision is the siting of an administration building/gym for the North Melbourne Football Club.  Another yet to be determined is the future of the grandstand.  The minutes of the redevelopment committee to be circulated soon.

11.  Potential for crimes and disturbances on the Kensington Estate (Derby Street)
Some residents of the estate have communicated their concerns to the association.  The matter will be kept under review, including via the Association representative on the PCCC, Therese Fitzgerald.  Meanwhile residents are urged to contact police directly if they witness any suspicious activity.

12. Finance report
The Treasurer, Tony Dare, reported on the financial position as at 30 June.  Revenue from membership was at an all-time high and the Association’s “fighting fund” has increased.  The Association also managed to donate $200 each to the Java earthquake and East Timor appeals.  Members thanked Tony for ensuring that the Association’s financial position continued to be strong.

13.  Elections
Current members of the Steering Committee resigned and elections were held.  The following persons nominated and were elected by acclamation to the Steering Committee 2006-2007:

Officers of the Association:
Chairperson                               Richard Reilly
Vice-Chairperson                        Paul Devereux
Treasurer and Membership           Tony Dare
Secretary                                  David Ettershank
Public Officer                             Fiona Burns

Other members of the Steering Committee:
Heritage and History                   Sheila Byard
Minutes Secretary                       David Michelsen
Planning Coordinator                   Greg Bray
Planning                                    Darragh O'Brien
Environment                              Geoff Cox
Amenity                                    Joan Melville
Liaison                                      Clive Gartner

[end]