The Local Harvest website is a resource for helping people find ‘good food’ options beyond the supermarket.

We’ve listed West Leederville Community Garden on the website which you can see here.

Local Harvest Challenge

The Local Harvest Challenge is running from the 1st – 7th April. It’s one week where people actively seek to eat local foods, support growers and learn more about where their food comes from. We are inviting people to ‘Take the Challenge’, and work together in taking another step in reconnecting with their food.

We’re also inviting organisations to help us by promoting this week through their networks. If you’d like to help, we can post to you a pack of 15postcards to distribute. Just send us an email.

Helping Out

Local Harvest is a free-to-use community developed project. If you believe it’s a good thing and would like to help support us by becoming a Local Harvest sponsor, please let us know. We’re happy with a financial contribution of any size, and with it will flag you as a sponsor on your listing page, our sponsor page, and the Local Harvest Challenge pages.

Thanks for your part in helping people reclaim their food choices.

Cheers, Nick

–

Nick Ray
Local Harvest
Project Co-ordinator
www.localharvest.org.au
0417 114 492

Please join us for a leisurely stroll around our suburb to chat about what it means to you, how you might like to improve or preserve it, as well as meeting your neighbours and getting to know each other a little better.

Families are welcome.

If you are worried that you can’t manage the hill, or the distance (just over 3 km), please let me know, and perhaps can assist you with a wheelchair. My kids have been walking this distance since they were 4 years old. We don’t expect to be walking fast.

We plan to meet at the foot of the Leederville Train Station overpass on Southport Street, and finish at the cafe-deli which was once Charlie’s Corner.

Here are some of the kinds of things we might be talking about – feel free to come prepared with your own stories and ideas:

While you don’t have to RSVP to come, we would love to have some idea of numbers – if you “Leave a Reply” it will be emailed to us. Only those replies which are clearly intended for publication will be published, but all will be noted.

I’ve signed up my 12 Facebook friends, but please do sign up to be part of the conversation. Of course, the comments on these posts are always welcome, too!

What is Earth Carers?

Earth Carers are volunteers who help groups and individuals learn ways to protect the environment through reducing, reusing and recycling waste.

As an Earth Carer you might:

• Show friends and neighbours how to compost;
• Help your local school establish a worm farm
• Change the way waste is dealt with in your workplace;
• Attend local events as an Earth Carer.

By joining our enthusiastic Earth Carer volunteers you will help to make a difference to the environment.

The first step to becoming an Earth Carer is to attend our free training programme.

Monday, 16 January 2012,  7:30 pm at St Barnabas Church Hall

Draft Minutes – please let me know my errors so I can correct them quickly!

1. Apologies  Peg Davies, Liz Constable, Tracey Johnston
2. Present: Greg Toy, Col Ryan, Shani Mulheron, Michael Green, George Crisp, Sue Taylor, Carolyn Bendall, Felicity Simpson, Michael Simpson, Mary Ryan, Jeff Hart, Bruce Henderson, Troy Santen, Chris Porter, Jenni Ibrahim, Tom Minto, Violet Dhu, Peter Dhu, Catherine Bourke, Jack Bourke, Kim Judge, Lesley and David Letham, Amanda Faragher, Lou Pontarolo, Veronica Chambers, Melita Brown, S & P Karta, Anthea Robertson, Barbara Jones, Louis Carr, Corinne MacRae, Anne Lake, Alan Langer, Caroline Crisp, Jo Mcallister, Antje Holderbach, Martyn Shirley, Greg Sawyer, Ruth Dogoroki, Rita Bagini, Cheryl & Roger Hughes, Brendon Flaherty, John Townsend, Simon & Mandy Daddo, Melanie Hay, Kate & Hamish Nelson, Keith & Sue Edwards, Manus & Bernadette McCann, Noell & Henry Stawarz, Robert Love, Geoff Palfreyman. 60 were present.
3. Minutes of previous meeting were not tabled.
4. Fiona introduced the subject of the meeting, which is the recent application for planning approval at 110 Cambridge Street (on the corner with Kimberley Street, and the site of the old Demar building). She spoke to the timeline which has evolved regarding the application, which has seemed to pop up out of the blue for most residents.
1. Links to the proposal will be posted in these minutes.
2. The DAP (Development Assessment Panel) process has newly been introduced by the State Government to make approvals processes uniform across the state, and takes it away from the Local Councils. The Council has no power to stop this.
1. Simon Withers and Corrine McRae and Alan Langer are on the DAP committee, as well as professionals and state representatives. The Council still assesses the project and it’s impact on the local community and presents it to the committee, but an outsider’s impression is that DAPs are weighted towards Developers.
5. George noted the short time frame for submissions. Our first priority is to raise awareness. The site is the old Demar site, and the proposal is for 7 stories, 23 metres tall (twice the height of the Coles supermarket across the road). The ground floor will be retail, and the remainder will be residential with below ground parking (118 car bays). There will be a 3 metre setback from Cambridge St, but zero setback from Kimberly St. The L shape of the building gives the apartments a view across Kimberly St and Lesser St homes. The pictures of the proposal are at the Town of Cambridge, and can be viewed during office hours, Monday to Friday but can’t be published online or sent by email, as they are copyright.
1. This is a much bigger building than had been endorsed in the Urban Design Study 2009 which was approved by the residents and Council. The height will increase transmission of noise from the apartments. The high density residential will put more pressure on our green spaces and on traffic flow, particularly in that junction which is already a hot spot for traffic interactions. The traffic study estimates that only 5% will travel up Kimberley St, which seems surprisingly low. Informal estimates suggest that it might be more like 50%, in which case it would exceed local traffic recommendations.
2. The concern that this might set a precedent for the area was raised, and the impact that this would have on the nature and feel of the suburb.
3. Stephan Roderich responded that our own Traffic Engineers have assessed the impact, but the report has not yet been submitted.
4. The proposal requires the use of a car stacker, but the plans don’t include any contingency for peak times or breakdowns. The traffic study is available for review.
5. Will the car stacker be noisy? They will have to provide an acoustic report.
6. Troy Santen has reviewed the traffic study, which does not allow for the car stacker. He noted that Kimberley St is currently at 93% of recommended saturation, and the development will bring it up to precisely 100%. Apparently all the traffic will choose to go via Southport. If they don’t, the Kimberley Street traffic will go to 136%, which is not tenable. The Kimberley St/Lake Monger Drive intersection is already a gazetted Black Spot. Currently Kimberley Street is rated F (on a scale of A (best) to F). The report will give the Council some ammunition to reject the application.
   
8. These images were created by one of our members after viewing the plans in the Council chambers. They are indicative of size only.
6. Fiona reported that there would be 92 apartments, and 118 car bays. Some are concerned that this is not enough parking for visitors etc.
1. The Urban Design Study recommends building heights of two storeys only in that area.
2. The shadow of the building will fall on the Cambridge St “High Street” area and reduce it’s attractiveness to pedestrians.
7. Shani asked whether this might be just an ambit claim, as it is so far outside any Urban Design and existing plans.  Stephan responded that it would be based on financial viability of developing that land. Col feels that they are putting an application for seven storeys with a view to increasing to nine storeys when successful.
1. Greg Sawyer has worked as a developer and council planner, and he reported that it would be a usual plan to put up the higher number as the first claim.
8. We do not yet know whether the developer has purchased the land yet. We acknowledge that the site has been difficult to sell, and that development is required.
9. Jenni placed the development into a larger context. Town of Cambridge (and all councils) have been told they much put in higher density residential, particularly along lines of public transport. Perhaps having the new residents in one high density complex will help to protect our own land.
10. However, it must be in keeping with local community, and of an appropriate scale. Michael Green agreed in principle, but reported on a recent drive around the other local suburbs, revealing that other Town Councils are largely using three storey blocks to keep it in scale. 7 storeys is completely unreasonable.
1. Felicity appreciates the need for density, but remarked on the incredibly ugly building – like an old British Council Flat, or Live Sheep Transport Ship! The surrounding area could be heritage listed.
11. Apparently there isn’t currently a restriction on height – just a recommendation. However, the plot ratio requirement is in force. The plot ratio is 1.1:1, but this could go up to 2.5:1.  The site is about 1900m2, so floor area can be two and a half times more than that. It doesn’t give us a lot of protection.
1. While the Urban D
   esign Report is in draft, it isn’t enforced.
2. Greg Toy asked if we can protest to the DAP directly. Fiona responded that we can make a submission formally at the 15th March.
3. Zrea McRae (a Town Planner) expanded on DAPs: The DAP is obliged to take note of TOC existing policies, and draft policies which are well on their way to being finalised are taken into account as well. Although we have less influence than if it were going before Council, we can be assured that the TOC guidelines will be considered.
12. The plans are not accurate in terms of existing surrounding structures. Trees are shown where existing buildings sit, making the area look more spacious than it can be.
13. Cheryl Hughes raised the question of traffic – the impact will be on all West Leedervillestreets, not only Kimberley Street. The other concern is that the development is too big: where will their children play? Where will their children go to school? There is not enough room at the primary school for our existing residents.
14. Alan Langer spoke to his own opinion that this building is inappropriate.
15. The Town of Cambridge committee meeting on 21st February will consider it.
16. 
    Action Plan

1. Save our Subiaco has some experience in dealing with DAPs – links to their resources are here.
2. We need to use The Post, West Australian, TV news, facebook.
3. Shop front petition signatures: 10968206_1 WL petition one page.
4. Sample letter to Liz Constable, MLCs, Town of Cambridge.
5. F
   orm an Action Group.
6. Those who are happy to do some door knocking, distribution of pamphlets, petition signing are invited to use these resources. Please inform us if you have canvassed a street already so that we do not double up. So far, Lesser St, Glen St, Kimberley St have been done/allocated.

From the Town of Cambridge Website -
Closing date for this notice: 30 January 2012

It is hereby notified for public information and comment that the Town has received an application for planning approval as follows:

Site: No. 110 Cambridge Street (Corner Kimberley Street), West Leederville

Proposal: Seven storey mixed use development comprising 92 residential apartments and two retail shops at ground level fronting Cambridge Street. 118 parking bays are provided on site to support the proposed development with vehicle access provided from Kimberley Street.

It is noted that this application will be determined by the Metro West Joint Development Assessment Panel in place of the Town of Cambridge.

The application is available for viewing at the Town of Cambridge Administration Centre, 1 Bold Park Drive, Floreat between 8.30am and 4.30pm Monday to Friday.

Written comments to the Town of Cambridge, 1 Bold Park Drive, Floreat WA 6014 should be received by 30 January 2012.

Don’t miss this year’s annual Christmas at Lake Monger festival on Wednesday, 7 December on the reserve next to Lake Monger Drive, Wembley.  Come along from 4:30pm where you’ll find plenty of free entertainment for the kids – including a bouncy castle, face painters and farm animals.

For an interesting and illustrated view of the Town of Cambridge ideas for the foot-bridge across Leederville Train Station 

If you are looking for Christmas Services in West Leederville, there are a range to choose from -

The Primary School is hosting a Carols Evening on Friday 9th December, from 6 pm.

Anglican Church: St Barnabas – 104 Woowich St
Lessons and Carols: December 18th 6:30 pm, followed by drinks and nibbles
Christmas Family Service: December 24th 6:30 pm
Communion service: December 24th 11:00 pm, followed by sparkles
Christmas Day: December 25th 9:30 am.

Catholic Church: Our Lady of Victories
St Cecilias, Cnr Grantham Street and Kenmore Crescent, Floreat
Our Lady of Victories, Cnr Cambridge Street and Simper Street, Wembley
Saturday December 24 6 pm  St Cecilia’s
8.00pm Our Lady of Victories
Sunday December 25 7.30am Our Lady of Victories
9.30am St Cecilia’s

Catholic Church: St Josephs – 3 Salvado Rd, Subiaco
Saturday 24 December 6:00pm Children’s Vigil
Saturday 24 December 9:00pm Christmas Vigil Mass
Saturday 24 December 11:15pm Carol Service
Sunday 25 December 12:00am Midnight Mass
Sunday 25 December 9:00am Christmas Morning Mass

Presbyterian Church: Henderson Memorial – 101 Kimberley St

http://www.churchperth.org/

Further information pending…

Uniting Church: 35 Pangbourne St, Wembley
Wednesday 14 December: 1 pm Open Air Christmas Concert
cnr Colin and Hay sts, West Perth
Further information pending…

1. Felicity reported that the companies who sell such things have been very slow to respond to requests for quotes. She suggested that we buy the materials and convene a working bee to paint, construct and install it.
2. We are not expecting to get quotes (which would be needed for a LotteryWest grant) until mid-next year. In our submission, we would also be wise to mention our links with the School, Earthcarers, CYC and Interchange. We would also want to include the costs of blinds to keep the afternoon sun under control.
3. We will need to submit a development application to TOC. Anne has already prepared the ground for this.
4. A single-gable roof would allow harvesting of rainwater – we could install a separate tank to feed the sink.

1. The current couch tea bins are too large to harvest the weed compost, and the taps at the bottom have become blocked, so we discussed alternative methods of making use of our couch weeds. Smaller bins which can be made mosquito-proof to be purchased, and used on a two-week rotation to ensure they are actively used and monitored. Felicity also has a dry-cooking method in mind.
2. We do need a greenwaste bin – Carol will ask Council for the bin.
3. Compost bins to be positioned under trees and identified as NON-COUCH receptacles.

1. Carol will review the list of tasks to make them more specific, and allocate them to individuals.

1. Ground covers and ‘roo paws to “street verge” and front area instead of the old compost bin area, as this will not be ready for planting until next year.
2. The seedlings were planted out directly after the meeting concluded.

1. Monthly workshops on a broad spectrum of topics
2. Will be supported by TOC
3. We should invest in invited, professional speakers
4. Sue to prepare a timetable, and circulate for discussion.

1. The original plan to have the shed in the native food garden was reviewed. Perhaps it will fit on the dark plot at the back gate? It may also be difficult to get it up there.

1. The permaculture course looks very interesting, but requires investment of time and money. Felicity will circulate more information.

1. Lou has spoken to Greg about asking Graham for more lawn clippings, but there was a concern about whether Roundup was used on the lawns. However, any donated lawn clippings would be a risk of the same. We resolved that we may as well make use of the bowling club lawns, as it is close and accessible.

1. Lesley raised the idea of ringing people with gentle questions about what is keeping them from the garden regularly. Felicity felt happy to call, but Carol indicated that she would find that quite threatening, but supported the idea in principal.
2. Siimon has already been approached. Mike (and Nancy) will be telephoned this week, and Grahame has already been telephoned, and has not responded. It is now time for the warning email. Helen needs to be reminded that we would be happy to help look after her garden when she has to go away. Ren has been unwell, and is starting to re-engage with the garden.

1. Anne recommended an annual Christmas Cocktail party. Friday afternoon in late November seemed to work. The garden will buy the alcohol, soft drinks and ice. It was a good opportunity to thank the Town for all their help. It would be good to invite the community and gardeners more directly in 2012, to thank the broader community for their engagement. We will advertise it more widely.
2. There is some black piping for putting over the sharp edges of the compost bays. Lou demonstrated the installation.
3. Peg will get some mulch – to be put near the bath, on the lawn area. The reticulation will be protected by heavy pots/the upturned bath.

If you have time in the next week, it would be lovely to have the garden looking spick and span to welcome our guests, and the kids from the Primary School will be helping with a final tidy on Friday afternoon.

If you have not yet told us you would like to come, please do: we would hate to run out of food and drinks!