News
The contact for media enquiries is Council's Senior Media and Communications Advisor on 0407 556 101.
2021
$2m boost for eight sports and recreation sites across Merri-bek, 20 May 2021
Moreland City Council announced the Get Active Merri-bek Park Enhancement Project in partnership with Sport and Recreation Victoria recently at Charles Mutton Reserve - one of the eight parks in the Get Active Merri-bek Park Enhancement Project.
Guidance for future of Coburg's Hosken Reserve (Media Release), 12 May 2021
After considering an extensive community engagement process conducted in February and March this year, Merri-bek City Council has set direction around the surfaces, sports infrastructure and sports use of Coburg North’s Hosken Reserve.
Trialling a shared zone for safer and brighter streets in Brunswick East (media release), 27 April 2021
Merri-bek Council is trialling a shared zone in Albert Street and Victoria Street, Brunswick East alongside Fleming Park, striding towards making walking and cycling safer in the covid-environment.
Mike Hill Fellowship launches next gen leader in Merri-bek (media release), 27 April 2021
Moreland City Council and Australian Energy Foundation have launched the Mike Hill Fellowship, a joint initiative to build local champions for action on climate change, created in tribute to prominent Merri-bek environmental figure Mike Hill.
Merri-bek Council and Guide Dogs make a big splash, 27 April 2021
Victorians with low vision or blindness will have improved access to multiple leisure centres across Merri-bek City Council following the installation of new navigation technology.
Brunswick electric vehicle hub leading the charge in EV uptake (Media Release), 15 April 2021
Merri-bek Council’s newest public electric vehicle charging hub at 13-15 Edward Street, Brunswick is attracting the highest number of charge sessions per month of any charging station in Australia.
Rates help is available, 13 April 2021
If you are experiencing difficulties in paying your rates, contact us before Monday 31 May.
Love Merri-bek, Buy Local presents the ultimate guide to Merri-bek businesses and venues, 31 March 2021
Want to find the best coffee in Brunswick? Find out what music venues are in Coburg? How about sustainable businesses in Fawkner? Check out our new ultimate guide to Merri-bek businesses and venues.
We want to hear from you, 22 February 2021
Do you use Fawkner Leisure Centre? Do you want to? We are upgrading the centre. And we want to hear from you.
Cardinal Road, Glenroy going green with new park, 12 February 2021
Cardinal Road, Glenroy going green with new park, 12 February 2021 Merri-bek Council’s plan to create a park at Cardinal Road, Glenroy has received a major boost with a $1.3 million grant from the Victorian Government as part of the Local Parks Program
New Coburg mural made by the community, 14 January 2021
Coburg Library is now home to a new mural, celebrating the people and places of Merri-bek. FACES & PLACES is an intergenerational community connection art activation funded by Merri-bek Council.
Outdoor dining exemptions and live music (statement), 08 January 2021
Merri-bek Council sees a need for greater clarification from the State Government around permit exemptions and clearer guidance for venues around outdoor live music which we will continue to seek to achieve.
2020
Christmas/New Year operating hours, 16 December 2020
Merri-bek Council offices and services will be operating at reduced capacity over the Christmas/New Year period. Here’s what you need to know.
Catch up on our special event, 04 December 2020
Did you miss our special event with Paul Zappa on fostering respect and celebrating healthier expressions of masculinity? You can now watch it online.
Building Appeals Board determination upholds the Municipal Building Surveyor’s Emergency Order for make safe works (community information), 01 December 2020
Community update on Hoffman Brickworks
Coburg Lake White Ibis Colony, 27 November 2020
Have you recently visited Coburg Lake and noticed these long logged birds? They are known as White Ibis (Threskiornis molucca) and they are a native Australian bird protected under the Wildlife Act 1975.
Calling it out, 24 November 2020
Want to call out sexist behaviour when you see it? But not sure about the best way? Here we share Respect Victoria’s 16 ways to call it out when you hear or see sexist, disrespectful or sexually harassing behaviour.
Cr Annalivia Carli Hannan elected Merri-bek Mayor, 20 November 2020
Introducing Merri-bek’s new Mayor Cr Annalivia Carli Hannan and Deputy Mayor Cr Mark Riley, who were elected at tonight's special council meeting.
Saying no to violence against women, 18 November 2020
Join us for a special online event with Paul Zappa on fostering respect and celebrating healthier expressions of masculinity.
How did we do?, 17 November 2020
Our latest annual report is now available. We have created a special summary website to share our results with you.
Help your pooch get top of the class -steps to being a responsible dog owner, 15 November 2020
Help your dog get top marks when it comes to being a good Merri-bek pet and remember these important things when it comes to being a responsible pet owner.
Councillors-elect to be sworn in and Mayor and Deputy Mayor elected, 11 November 2020
Councillors-elect will be sworn in at a meeting on 17 November and the Mayor and Deputy Mayor elected on 20 November 2020.
Merri-bek City Council 2020 election results, 05 November 2020
The results of the Merri-bek City Council 2020 election have been declared on Thursday 5 November 2020 by the Victorian Electoral Commission.
Our annual report for 2019/20, 29 September 2020
The Merri-bek City Council annual report 2019-20 is now available.
State-of-the-art soccer pitch for Merri-bek (media release), 17 September 2020
Hosken Reserve in Pascoe Vale South will be home to a new synthetic soccer pitch, allowing more participants to access to modern, safe and inclusive facility.
Surface improvement works at Gillon Oval, Brunswick, 16 September 2020
We are about to commence surface improvement works around the cricket wicket area at Gillon Oval in Brunswick.
Park upgrades will help Merri-bekers 'Get Active' (media release), 10 September 2020
Moreland residents can look forward to enjoying enhanced park facilities at eight locations across the municipality as part of Merri-bek Council’s Get Active Merri-bek Enhancement Project.
Council Boosts Business Grant Funding, 10 September 2020
We are pleased to announce that Council has approved an additional $300,000 to provide more grants to businesses facing economic hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Local Brunswick football club receives funding boost, 27 August 2020
We are excited to announce the $760,000 refurbishment of the Brunswick Zebras Football Club (FC) changerooms and facilities in Sumner Park, with construction expected to start at the end of this year.
Merri-bek Design Excellence Scorecard delivers on innovation and affordable housing (media release), 25 August 2020
Merri-bek Council’s Design Excellence Scorecard has facilitated another quality design outcome with the approval of a significant compliant development at 6-8 Wilson Avenue, Brunswick, delivering 100% affordable housing.
Merri-bek Council adopts budget for a resilient city (media release), 24 August 2020
A $6.24 million COVID-19 Recovery and Rebuild package targeted at residents, businesses and the arts is the centrepiece of Merri-bek Council’s $206.35 million budget, focused on helping the community through the COVID-19 pandemic.
Primary students' remote artwork project goes live in Coburg (media release), 11 August 2020
A collaborative art project between Coburg Primary School students and a local artist has come to life in Coburg’s Russell Street despite COVID-19 school closures stopping the original planned workshops in their tracks.
Merri-bek Council announces over $200,000 in grants to support arts and community sector to flourish and thrive, 14 July 2020
Merri-bek has a long and proud history of being home to a creative and active community, and it’s this very community who has been among the hardest hit during the COVID-19 pandemic.
State 3 restrictions reimposed in Merri-bek suburbs and what it means for our community (media statement), 02 July 2020
Moreland Council acknowledges the announcement by State Government to reimpose Stage 3 Stay at Home restrictions for 10 postcodes in Melbourne including Merri-bek suburbs 3046 (Glenroy, Hadfield, Oak Park), 3060 (Fawkner), 3055 (Brunswick West), in order to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 in our community.
School crossing supervisors back on board and up for an award (media release), 10 June 2020
Have you missed your School Crossing Supervisor’s enthusiastic and friendly hello every school day as they help you cross the road safely with a smile? If that’s a yes, they might just be in the running for the 2019/2020 School Crossing Supervisor of the Year.
Merri-bek Council's Maternal and Child Health services begin reopening to meet over 400 newest residents, 09 June 2020
Our Maternal and Child Health service has continued to provide valuable support to Merri-bek’s newest residents – all 400 of them! - and their parents throughout the COVID-19 Victorian state of emergency.
Love Merri-bek? Buy local! (media release), 05 June 2020
If you ‘Love Merri-bek, Buy Local’. That’s the simple message in Council’s new campaign to encourage the community to support local goods and services during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.
The $8.7 million COVID-19 silver lining in Merri-bek (media release), 27 May 2020
The COVID-19 pandemic has been a difficult time for many Merri-bekers but the forced shutdown of pubs and clubs in the area has led to $8.7 million saved from being fed into poker machines.
Council continues to stand up for people seeking asylum in our community, 20 May 2020
Merri-bek Council is part of a group of 30 Councils nationwide advocating for people seeking asylum living in our community left destitute by the cuts to the Status Resolution Support Services program.
Draft Merri-bek Council Budget 2020-2021, 15 May 2020
At the latest council meeting, Wednesday 13 May 2020, Councillors endorsed the Draft Budget 2020-2021.Now the Draft Budget 2020-2021 has been endorsed by Council the Merri-bek community are now welcomed to have their say via our engagement platform, Conversations Merri-bek. Submissions on the Draft Budget are open until Thursday 11 June 2020.
Creating new jobs for Merri-bekers (media release), 10 May 2020
Merri-bek Council has 310 new jobs on offer, providing much needed employment opportunities for local workers doing it tough during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Council receives advice of Independent Panel on Amendment C183 (media statement), 29 April 2020
An independent panel appointed by Council to review Amendment C183 to the Merri-bek Planning Scheme has now issued its report.
Keeping the wheels turning, 17 April 2020
Every day, people are leaving their homes and going to work to help our community, including council officers who run our essential services. We’re catching up with them to share their stories and give you an insight into these critical frontline services. See our discussion with Merri-bek team member Olga, Delivered Meals Driver.
What Council is doing to support you during COVID-19, 15 April 2020
Council is helping the Merri-bek community during the COVID-19 pandemic via a range of measures including financial relief, community grants, support for businesses, increased home support services and online and over-the-phone enhancements to existing services.
Financial support during COVID-19, 27 March 2020
To support our community during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, we have developed a COVID-19 Financial Hardship Policy. The policy aims to provide rates support to individuals and businesses who have been impacted financially.
Notice of Special Council Meeting, 23 March 2020
A Special Council meeting has been called in accordance with section 84(2A) of the Local Government Act 1989 (Act) and will be held at 6.30 pm on Wednesday 25 March 2020 in the Council Chamber, Merri-bek Civic Centre, 90 Bell Street, Coburg for the purpose of considering service closures and modifications in response to COVID-19.
Julian Assange’s Human Rights Must be Upheld (media release), 13 March 2020
Merri-bek Council is writing to the Foreign Affairs Minister Marise Payne to urge the Australian Government to immediately step in to ensure the British authorities are upholding the human rights of Julian Assange, an Australian citizen and former resident of the inner north suburbs.
Public Safety Infrastructure funding to light up Merri-bek’s sporting facilities (media release), 12 March 2020
Moreland Mayor, Cr Lambros Tapinos joined Lizzie Blandthorn MP today at Sewell Reserve, Glenroy for the announcement of funding to develop public safety infrastructure in Merri-bek to improve community safety, security and access.
Female friendly upgrades for Richards Reserve pavilion (media release), 05 March 2020
Coburg North’s Richards Reserve sports pavilion is gearing up for the future with works to make the facility more inclusive and accessible for everyone starting in early March.
Merri-bek Council celebrating women's voices this International Women's Day (media release), 05 March 2020
Merri-bek Council will join the local community in celebration of International Women’s Day 2020, through a range of fun events across the municipality this week.
Council welcomes container deposit scheme in Victoria (media release), 27 February 2020
We welcome the announcement made on Monday by the Premier, that Victoria will get a container deposit scheme to recycle glass, aluminium and plastic drink containers by 2023.
Important changes to MITS parking restrictions (media release), 18 February 2020
Council has voted to make changes to on-street parking restrictions being rolled out in some areas of Merri-bek as part of the Merri-bek Integrated Transport Strategy (MITS). The changes respond to community concerns and will help residents, businesses and visitors continue to move around the city, while still working towards slowing the growth of cars in Merri-bek.
Merri-bek Council joins movement to reclaim suburban streets for play (media release), 18 February 2020
Merri-bek Council will be supporting local residents to gather on residential streets for activities and street play.
Active Merri-bek fun run changes lives through fitness and fundraising (media release), 17 February 2020
After losing almost half her body weight, Angela Dionysopoulos is setting herself a new challenge: the 10km event at the Active Merri-bek Fun Run and Walk.
Ready, set, streetscape for Gaffney Village (media release), 12 February 2020
Pascoe Vale’s Gaffney Village shopping strip is set for a new lease of life as Merri-bek Council gets ready to start work on streetscape improvements in February 2020.
Trees felled as Merri-bek community ignored (media release), 05 February 2020
Merri-bek City Council urges the Victorian State Government to halt the destruction and removal of trees at Gandolfo Gardens.
Notice of Special Council Meeting Tuesday 4 February 2020, 01 February 2020
A Special Council meeting has been called in accordance with section 84(1) of the Local Government Act 1989 (Act) and will be held at 6 pm on Tuesday 4 February 2020 in the Council Chamber, Merri-bek Civic Centre, 90 Bell Street, Coburg for the purpose of considering a confidential item.
Reduce your food waste: Turn top 3 wasted foods into delicious snacks, 30 January 2020
In Merri-bek, we love food and hate waste! So we’ve compiled some recipe ideas to help you use your bread, bananas and bagged salad leftovers.
Counihan Gallery In Brunswick expands in 2020 (media release), 29 January 2020
Counihan Gallery In Brunswick is set to reopen on February 8 in a new expanded gallery space with street access and extended open hours for visitors to enjoy the impressive offerings of the Merri-bek Art Collection.
Guarding Merri-bek's young workforce through new skills and employment opportunities (media release), 15 January 2020
A Pool Life Guard program delivered by Merri-bek City Council and Life Saving Victoria has provided successful pathways to employment for young locals, aged 17 to 24, with high employment outcomes over the last four years.
Merri-bek acts on vision for a zero carbon and waste free community by 2040 (Media release), 14 January 2020
Council’s recently adopted Zero Carbon Merri-bek - Climate Emergency Action Plan sets out how it will be supporting residents, businesses and schools to act together in response to the climate emergency.
Merri-bek Council applies for grant to improve high risk locations, 08 January 2020
As part of the TAC Black Spot Program which invites Local councils to apply for the funding of projects at high risk locations, Council has recently submitted a total of 8 projects for TAC funding in the 2019/20 financial year.
2019
Vote now to name Brunswick’s two new parks (media release), 13 December 2019
Merri-bek Council is asking the community to cast their vote to name Brunswick’s two newest parks at Tinning Street and West Street until Friday January 24, 2020.
Merri Creek safety audit to commence (media release), 06 December 2019
Merri-bek Council will conduct a safety audit of the Merri Creek corridor.
Brunswick's Saxon Lane ringing with new artwork (media release), 29 November 2019
Saxon Lane Brunswick will welcome a new public artwork by artist and sculptor Anton Hasell, titled ‘Where We Have Come To’, with a launch on December 5.
Christmas/New Year operating hours, 28 November 2019
Change of operating hours over Christmas/New Year period
Local disability advocate encourages speaking out in Royal Commission (media release), 28 November 2019
The Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability gives people an opportunity to speak up against mistreatment and discrimination experienced by a person with disability, and will make recommendations on how to better protect people with disabilities from violence and abuse.
Training on soon for Merri-bek’s volunteer mentor drivers (Media Release), 28 November 2019
A Hadfield volunteer mentor driver says he gets “satisfaction in spades” from helping young people earn their driver’s licences.
Melbourne Renegades bring cricket family day to Coburg (Media Release), 27 November 2019
Primary school students across Merri-bek tested their skills against a few of Victoria’s best male and female cricketers as they warmed up for the Melbourne Renegades Family Day on Sunday 15 December at Coburg City Oval.
Gowanbrae Community Garden launches in time for Spring (media release), 22 November 2019
Gowanbrae residents are enjoying a new community garden as part of Merri-bek Council’s Gowanbrae Open Space Development and Management Plan.
New Merri-bek Mayor pledges community focus (media release), 29 October 2019
New Mayor of Merri-bek Councillor Lambros Tapinos has highlighted community engagement and a high standard of delivery on Council’s core services as key items on his to do list for 2019-2020.
Women bowling their way to wellbeing and inclusion (media release), 28 October 2019
More than 25 local women gathered on the green at Fawkner Lawn Bowls Club to celebrate the success of the Count Me In Too program, which supports young women and girls from diverse backgrounds to be involved in local sporting clubs and organisations in Fawkner, Glenroy and Hadfield.
Council to phase out glyphosate weed products (media release), 24 October 2019
Merri-bek Council has committed to phasing out glyphosate products, commonly used for weed management, by August 2021.
Sheils Reserve redevelopment a win for local community (media release), 23 October 2019
A new and improved Sheils Reserve, Brunswick West is open for the community to enjoy, thanks to a $382,000 investment from Merri-bek City Council’s Open Space fund.
Tracking Merri-bek's litter to tackle waterway pollution (media release), 21 October 2019
Littering was encouraged on Thursday, as students released five plastic bottles fitted with GPS devices into Merri Creek as part of the Litter Trackers project, funded by the Victorian Government’s Port Phillip Bay Fund.
New CEO announced at Merri-bek City Council (media release), 10 October 2019
Merri-bek City Council is pleased to announce that Ms Cathy Henderson has been appointed to the role of Chief Executive Officer.
Council disappointed that Upfield Railway Line Precinct heritage submissions cut short (media release), 09 October 2019
Merri-bek City Council has expressed concern to the Minister for Planning, Richard Wynne, about lack of transparency, notification, and processes around the Upfield Railway Line Precinct submissions to Heritage Victoria.
Oak Park Primary students lead the way with Walking School Bus (media release), 07 October 2019
Students, teachers and parents of Oak Park Primary School are getting a healthy start to the day and reducing car travel via their Walking School Buses from Station Street and New Road, Oak Park, twice a week.
Council fast-charging Merri-bek’s electric vehicles on road to zero emission transport (media release), 03 October 2019
Moreland Council’s latest investment in a second electric vehicle fast-charge station at Boundary Road, North Coburg, brings the total charging stations in Merri-bek to 10.
Community the winner at 2019 Merri-bek Awards (media release), 02 October 2019
Council has recognised individuals and community organisations for their outstanding service and commitment to Merri-bek over the past 12 months at the 2019 Merri-bek Awards.
Public notice - Notice of a Special Council Meeting, 26 September 2019
A Special Council Meeting has been called at 5.45 pm on Thursday 3 October 2019 Coburg for the purpose of considering an opportunity to purchase land.
Libraries After Dark to continue, bigger and better (media release), 19 September 2019
Libraries After Dark, a project conceived in Merri-bek two years ago, is being rolled out at 10 locations across Victoria to prevent gambling harm.
NOTICE OF SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING, 06 September 2019
A Special Council Meeting for Planning and Related Matters has been called in accordance with section 84(2A) of the Local Government Act 1989 (Act) and will be held at 6.30 pm on Wednesday 11 September 2019 in the Council Chamber, Merri-bek Civic Centre, 90 Bell Street, Coburg for the purpose of considering Planning Permit Application MPS/2018/941, for 843-851 Sydney Road, Brunswick.
Dads groups in demand in Merri-bek, 27 August 2019
Dads groups look set to expand in Merri-bek following the success of the first ‘Dads of Coburg’ event this month as strong interest emerges from local fathers in other suburbs across the municipality.
Sport on the rise in Merri-bek; have your say on the future (media release), 22 August 2019
Merri-bek Council data has revealed that participation in sport and recreation activities across the municipality has increased by 39% over the past decade.
Hoops to help the homeless, 16 August 2019
It started as a small idea with Council gardener and basketball fanatic Chris Worner looking for a way to help rough sleepers in Merri-bek; that idea has morphed into an event that has attracted the attention of Olympian Michele Timms, NBA superstar Andrew Bogut and media personality Peter Hitchener.
Notice of Special Council Meeting - Thursday 22 August 2019, 15 August 2019
A Special Council meeting has been called at 6.00 pm on Thursday 22 August 2019 Coburg for the purpose of considering Council’s Submission to Heritage Victoria in relation to the Level Crossing Removal Project application for the Demolition of Munro Street Signal Box.
Successful prosecution of planning breach over contaminated land (media release), 08 August 2019
Parties involved in an eight-storey apartment building development in Pentridge have been fined a total of $36,000 for a breach of a Council planning permit by commencing the development without the required Environmental Audit related to contaminated land.
More women and girls playing sport in Merri-bek (media release), 05 August 2019
Merri-bek City Council has shared its 10-year journey to creating inclusive sporting clubs at the Creating Change Through Policy forum at Brunswick Town Hall on 31 July.
Council to fight on as more than $63 million is gambled away in Merri-bek (Media Release), 01 August 2019
Moreland City Council will continue to tackle problem gambling head on as the latest figures show an astounding $174,247 has been lost on pokies per day in the City of Merri-bek over the past financial year.
A car that can help a tree grow? Only in Merri-bek! (Media Release), 26 July 2019
Cars and trees don’t have much in common, but in Merri-bek on Schools Tree Day, both are working towards saving our environment.
Local Merri-bek groups receive boost through Council’s Community Grants Program (Media Release), 24 July 2019
Moreland Council has committed more than $380,000 to local not-for-profit organisations through the Community Grants Program to increase access and participation opportunities for Merri-bek residents.
Celebrating a refreshed Fawkner Leisure Centre (Media Release), 23 July 2019
Fawkner Leisure Centre is back open for business after undergoing a $1 million upgrade.
Council announces more parks for Brunswick (media release), 19 July 2019
More residents in Brunswick will live within walking distance to a park in the future with Merri-bek City Council announcing the purchase of two more properties where new open space will be created for the community.
Special Council Meeting in relation to a recent Waste Services review (media statement), 11 July 2019
At its meeting held on 10 July 2019, Council considered a report in relation to a recent Waste Services review.
Notice of Special Council Meeting, Wednesday 10 July 2019, 04 July 2019
A Special Council Meeting for Planning and Related Matters has been called and will be held at 6.30pm on Wednesday 10 July 2019.
Merri-bek Council budget balances core services and investment in city's future (media release), 01 July 2019
Moreland City Council will invest $29.5 million in infrastructure across 2019-20 to maintain and improve the amenity of the city, while maintaining a focus on core services for the Merri-bek community.
Greening Brunswick's Albert Street for a lively and livable neighbourhood (media release), 01 July 2019
Bunswick’s Albert Street is set to bloom bright thanks to a community planting session with local groups and businesses, aiming to green the streetscape and build a better neighbourhood.
Council Online Services site unavailable between 5pm Friday 14 Feb to 5pm Saturday 15 Feb 2020, 27 June 2019
Council's Online Services site will be closed during this time while we perform maintenance.
Merri-bek welcomes Toyota Mirai in hydrogen fuel cell vehicle trial (media releas), 24 June 2019
Merri-bek City Council is excited to play host to two hydrogen fuel cell vehicles over the next two months as Council continues to develop and deliver innovative environmental initiatives that help lead the way for the local government sector in Victoria and Australia.
Council offers funding boost to Merri-bek artists (media release), 13 June 2019
Moreland Council is offering support to Merri-bek artists and art organisations of all backgrounds and abilities through the 2019 Arts Activation Grants.
No consultation on Coburg and Merri-bek station designs leaves Council disappointed (media release), 12 June 2019
Moreland City Council is extremely disappointed by the State Government’s lack of consultation with the community and Council on the design of the new Merri-bek and Coburg stations.
Fawkner's Bonwick Street upgrades officially kick off (media release), 06 June 2019
Merri-bek City Council joined local traders and residents today at Bonwick Street in Fawkner to celebrate the official beginning of exciting upgrades to the popular shopping strip.
Dr Di Lorenzo farewells a stronger, more sustainable Merri-bek (media release), 04 June 2019
After four and a half years as Council’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr Nerina Di Lorenzo has resigned after being appointed to the role of Executive General Manager, Service Delivery at Melbourne Water.
Council's Merri-bek Awards to celebrate community service (media release), 28 May 2019
Merri-bek City Council is putting the call out to the local community to help celebrate those who have enriched our community and inspired their peers through outstanding service and commitment over the past 12 months.
Merri-bek Council calls for public transport investment, not East-West Link (media release), 24 May 2019
Merri-bek City Council has called on the Morrison Federal Government to divert the $4 billion earmarked for East West Link to much needed investment in public transport infrastructure across Melbourne.
Brunswick silo mural gets the tick of approval (media release), 09 May 2019
Merri-bek Council has approved a planning permit that will see a new public art mural painted on a privately-owned heritage silo in Brunswick.
New look Active Merri-bek website (media release), 09 May 2019
Getting fit and active in Merri-bek now a whole lot easier thanks to the recently refreshed Active Merri-bek website.
Council welcomes State Government announcement confirming additional level crossing removals, 07 May 2019
Moreland City Council welcomes the announcement from the State Government confirming the removal of two additional level crossings on the Upfield line at Munro Street and Reynard Street, Coburg, in addition to the already-announced Merri-bek Road, Brunswick and Bell Street, Coburg sites.
Construction works along O’Hea Street, Pascoe Vale during May, 07 May 2019
Council is currently constructing a number of traffic calming works along O’Hea Street, from Pascoe Vale to Coburg.
A 'Suitcase of Dreams' celebrates Merri-bek's rich cultural history, 02 May 2019
A 100-square-metre artwork has graced a prominent wall in Sydney Road, Brunswick this week, the faces of one hundred local residents telling a story of resilience, persistence, unity and hope.
Have your say on Merri-bek's proposed 2019-20 budget (Media release), 24 April 2019
Moreland City Council has outlined its proposed budget for the 2019-20 financial year and will now welcome submissions from the Merri-bek community during the 28-day public consultation period.
Merri-bek Council gets plastic wise at local events (Media Release), 17 April 2019
Last week Merri-bek Council joined a number of other councils when Councillors endorsed the Plastic Wise Policy, a policy that moves towards eliminating the use of single-use plastic within Council’s own operations as well as at Council run events.
Food no longer going to waste with Council’s Food and Garden Organics Collection Service (Media release), 11 April 2019
As of 1 July 2019, Council is expanding its kerbside collection services to households by offering fortnightly food and garden organics collection.
An extremely long walk for an extrememly important cause (Media release), 25 March 2019
Social word student and climate activity, Shannon Loughnane is taking an 'extrememly long walk' from his home in Melbourne's north to Parliament House in Canberra to protest decades-long inaction on climate change.
Celebrating women in art (Media release), 25 March 2019
The Counihan Gallery in Brunswick is celebrating women with 2 new exhibitions.
Council to create two new parks for the City's future (Media release), 22 March 2019
For the first time, Merri-bek City Council has purchased property and land that will be transformed into two new parks.
News update: A Current Affairs story on apartment development in Brunswick East, 18 March 2019
On Monday 18 March Channel 9's A Current Affair aired a story focusing on an apartment complex within the Merri-bek municipality.
Tragedy in Christchurch, 15 March 2019
Merri-bek is shocked and deeply saddened by today’s tragedy in Christchurch.
Council continues journey towards protecting important heritage sites (media release), 14 March 2019
Council was pleased to take the next steps towards protecting heritage sites across Merri-bek, after endorsing the next phase of Amendment C174: Heritage Gap Study implementation at tonight’s Council Meeting (Wednesday 13 March 2019).
Merri-bek commits to gender equality (media release), 14 March 2019
Moreland City Council to be inclusive, culturally safe and culturally respectful for all gender and cultural identities after adopting the Merri-bek Gender Equality Commitment.
Beautiful Gowanbrae here to stay, says Mayor (media release), 12 March 2019
On behalf of Merri-bek City Council, Mayor Natalie Abboud has sent a strong signal to the state and federal governments that Council is committed to the people of Gowanbrae and intends to keep the suburb.
Discover new moves this month with Active Week (media release), 06 March 2019
Dive, sprint, cycle and bowl yourself into a week of more than 40 free activities across Merri-bek as part of Active Week.
Merri-bek not impacted by recent closures at SKM facilities, 27 February 2019
Council is pleased to let our residents know that Merri-bek is not impacted by the recent closures at SKM recycling facilities.
Counihan Gallery in Brunswick is turning 20 years old (media release), 21 February 2019
Counihan Gallery has been open for 20 years, and we're celebrating with 2 fantastic local studio exhibitions.
New guide shows how to grow a community garden (media release), 21 February 2019
Green thumbs and would-be gardeners now have a handy guide to help them establish community gardens in Merri-bek.
Tram service changes along Holmes and Nicholson Streets, 13 February 2019
Tram renewal works will be taking place along Holmes and Nicholson Streets in Brunswick, beginning in February.
A creative approach to tackling climate change, 11 February 2019
A film about a trip on a cruise ship gone wrong is an unusual way to examine the topic of climate emergency.
Your chance to balance the budget (media release), 30 January 2019
If you had $148 million to run our city what would you spend it on? Council's new budget simulator puts you in the hot seat to allocate the 2019-2020 budget however you choose.
Merri-bek City Council stands proud at 2019 Midsumma Festival (media release), 15 January 2019
Are you planning on heading to Victoria’s premier LGBTQIA+ cultural festival, Midsumma Carnival on Sunday 20 January? Why not swing past the Merri-bek City Council and say hello to our friendly staff.
Want to get involved in the 2019 Glenroy Festival? (media release), 15 January 2019
Council is currently looking for community groups, stallholders, performers, musicians and bands to feature as part of this year’s Glenroy Festival to be held on Sunday 28 April at Bridget Shortell Reserve, Glenroy.
New year, new home – RSPCA offer no fee on cat adoptions until the end of January (media release), 14 January 2019
Thinking of expanding the fur family in 2019? The RSPCA are scrapping the adoption fee on cats and kittens until January 31 2019.
Merri-bek Citizen Science - Urban Heat Island monitoring (media release), 14 January 2019
Ever considered yourself the scientific type? Do you have concerns for extreme heat felt in urban areas?
Get your skates on... community grants opening soon (media release), 14 January 2019
Each year Merri-bek City Council offers financial support to community led initiatives and collaborative projects that demonstrates multiple benefits and focuses directly on the Merri-bek community.
2018
Council is commited to gender equality (Media release), 17 December 2018
Merri-bek City Council is introducing a new Gender Equality Commitment and invites the community to have their say.
Mayor's Christmas message, 17 December 2018
Merri-bek City Council Mayor, Cr Natalie Abboud wishes all residents a happy and safe holiday.
Bonwick Street, Fawkner - streetscape improvements, 12 December 2018
Merri-bek City Council - as part of its Shopping Strip Renewal Program - is going to be making some streetscape improvements to the Bonwick Street Shopping Strip.
Are you smarter than a librarian? (Media release), 12 December 2018
If you love all things trivia then this Thursday, as part of the Glenroy Library After Dark program visitors can put their mins to the test and see if they can outsmart the librarian.
Have your say on Amendment C174 - Heritage Overlay (media release), 30 November 2018
Heritage Places enrich communities and provide a connection to the past. Merri-bek City Council has a responsibility to identify and protect heritage places for the benefit of current and future generations by including them in the Merri-bek Planning Scheme with a heritage overlay.
Carols by the Lake - This Saturday (Media release), 30 November 2018
Christmas is fast approaching and Merri-bek City Council is once again presenting its magical Carols by the Lake, at Coburg Lake Reserve on Saturday 8 December.
More support for more start-ups (Media release), 01 November 2018
New enterprises rejoice – Merri-bek City Council and the Brunswick Business Incubator are coming together to deliver more opportunities for more start-ups, following the signing of a 12-month Memorandum of Understanding this week.
Notice of Special Council meeting, 22 October 2018
A Special Council meeting has been called in accordance with section 84(2A) of the Local Government Act 1989 and will be held at 5.30 pm on Thursday 25 October 2018.
A fast track to success for Entrepreneurs (Media release), 15 October 2018
Entrepreneurs will soon be able to fast track their ideas to success thanks to Converger, a dedicated startup program in the north.
Award win for sustainability (Media release), 12 October 2018
Merri-bek City Council, along with 13 other leading organisations, has come away with the Government Award last night at this year's Premier's Sustainability Awards.
Upfield Shared Path improvements and detour, 10 October 2018
Council is widening the Upfield Shared Path and installing new lighting between Phoenix Street and Albert Street from 10 October to 2 November 2018. During this time a detour will be in place.
Walking the Walk (Media release), 14 September 2018
Merri-bek City Council has once again joined with VicHealth for Walk to School month – a fun and creative way to teach kids the benefits of active travel.
A space for dogs to run free (Media release), 14 September 2018
There’s a new hang out for dogs in Brunswick following the opening of Merri-bek’s first enclosed dog park at Gilpin Park.
Social Cohesion for the win (Media release), 13 September 2018
Merri-bek City Council came away a winner at last night’s Victoria’s Multicultural Awards for Excellence, which honours individuals and organisations that foster cross-cultural understanding, support migrants and refugees, and celebrate and promote diverse cultures.
Nicholson Street Tram Stops (Media release), 11 September 2018
At its August meeting, Merri-bek City Council resolved to ask Public Transport Victoria to review its design of the proposed super stops at the end of the 96 tram line on Nicholson Street in East Brunswick.
Moreland, a big fan of renewable energy (Media release), 31 August 2018
Construction has begun on the Melbourne Renewable Energy Project’s Crowlands Wind Farm.
Award to recognise Merri-bek’s great women (media release, 31 August 2018
Construction has begun on the Melbourne Renewable Energy Project’s Crowlands Wind Farm.
Merri-bek ‘all aboard’ with State Government’s historic rail project (Media release), 28 August 2018
Moreland’s Mayor Cr John Kavanagh says the State Government’s announcement today of a $50 billion underground suburban rail loop – linking every major rail line in Melbourne and the new airport rail – will be a game changer for the municipality and Melbourne more broadly.
Boost for community arts (Media release), 27 August 2018
Seven projects have shared $50,000 as part of Council’s new Arts Activation Grants.
Thank you to our quiet achievers (Media release), 27 August 2018
Communities work best when people act for the benefit of others, as well as themselves, both voluntarily and professionally.
Council secures land for community (Media release), 23 August 2018
Moreland City Council has announced that it will purchase a substantial parcel of land along the Merri Creek in Fawkner, securing the open space for Merri-bek’s growing community.
Your rates at work (Media release), 17 August 2018
A wide range of projects and initiatives will be funded in the coming year in Merri-bek.
Notice of Special Council meeting, 13 August 2018
A Special Council meeting has been called in accordance with section 84(2A) of the Local Government Act 1989 and will be held at 5.45 pm on Monday 13 August 2018.
Notice of Special Council Meeting, 30 July 2018
A Special Council meeting has been called in accordance with section 84(2A) of the Local Government Act 1989 and will be held at 6 pm on Monday 6 August 2018.
Red Cross CEO to present 22nd Maurice Blackburn Oration (Media release), 23 July 2018
Merri-bek City Council is proud to announce the Chief Executive Officer of the Australian Red Cross, Judy Slatyer, will present this year’s Maurice Blackburn Oration.
Mayors unite for gambling reform (Media release), 23 July 2018
Merri-bek City Council Mayor, Cr John Kavanagh, is leading a group of metropolitan mayors as they unite in their push for meaningful gambling reform.
Word Play at the library (Media release), 16 July 2018
The Word Play program encourages migrant families with young children to learn English together through play.
Space Animation Project (Media release), 16 July 2018
Thanks to a project called ‘Space Animation’, windows of empty shows are now home to some gorgeous illustrations by local artist, Sam Marshall.
Merri-bek Zero Carbon Grants (Media release), 16 July 2018
To enable and support community action MEFL is launching a pilot program of Merri-bek Zero Carbon grants.
Council helps students prepare for VCE (Media release), 09 July 2018
Yas was able to get some extra help from Oxygen Merri-bek Youth Services. He participated in some VCE master classes provided by Oxygen, which is run by the Merri-bek City Council.
Plans to re-invigorate Moonee Ponds Creek (Media release), 09 July 2018
Two of Melbourne’s biggest councils are working to further transform the Moonee Ponds Creek into a beautiful waterway and they want your input.
Littlest citizens take up residency in Coburg (Media release), 28 June 2018
Significant investment is being made across Merri-bek to improve community sports facilities and to encourage more women and girls to get active.
Women and girls kicking goals (Media release), 28 June 2018
Significant investment is being made across Merri-bek to improve community sports facilities and to encourage more women and girls to get active.
Pooling our resources for an active Merri-bek (Media release), 22 June 2018
Earlier this month, your Councillors adopted Merri-bek’s first Aquatic and Leisure Strategy.
Condolences and sincere sympathy to all who knew Eurydice Dixon (Media release), 15 June 2018
The death of Eurydice Dixon – and the death of so many women as a result of completely unacceptable male violence – is a tragedy that should not be occurring in our communities.
Merri-bek supports push for more public housing (Media release), 25 May 2018
Moreland’s Mayor and Councillors, along with colleagues from other municipalities and members of the Victorian Parliament stood together with public housing residents on Friday to support Greens leader in the Victorian Parliament – and former Merri-bek Mayor – Samantha Ratnam’s bid to stop the sell-off of public housing land.
No change to our valued libraries (Media release), 22 May 2018
Reports in yesterday’s media that municipal library collections will be subject to a ‘political correctness filter’ will not be happening in Merri-bek.
New Apple IOS photo format, 17 May 2018
In its recent software update, Apple has introduced a new photo format called HEIC.
Pick My Project community grants (Media release), 30 April 2018
The State Government has announced the launch of a $30 million community grants program where community members can submit their ideas for local community projects.
Supreme Court rules in favour of Merri-bek City Council’s bid to protect those most vulnerable (Media release), 04 April 2018
Moreland City Council’s fight to protect Merri-bek’s most vulnerable citizens had a win last week when the Supreme Court ruled that VCAT had made an error in law in approving 10 additional gaming machines at a Merri-bek venue.
Ground broken for an Australian-first (Media release), 27 March 2018
Merri-bek City Council joined its partners in the Melbourne Renewable Energy Project on Friday to celebrate the official start of construction on a new 80 MW wind farm in Crowlands, near Ararat, to be run by Pacific Hydro.
Special Council meeting on 28 February 2018 (Media release), 15 February 2018
A Special Council meeting has been called in accordance with section 84(2A) of the Local Government Act 1989 (Act) and will be held at 6.15 pm on Wednesday 28 February 2018.
Cancelled: Special Council meeting on 27 February 2018 (Media release), 15 February 2018
A Special Council meeting, scheduled for 5.30 pm on Tuesday 27 February 2018, has been cancelled, following an extension to the timelines relating to 1-33 Outlook Drive, Glenroy.
2017
Oak Park redevelopment updates (Media release), 04 December 2017
The latest news from the Oak Park redevelopment project
Raising the West Papuan Morning Star flag (Media release), 04 December 2017
Council raised the West Papuan Morning Star flag on Friday, paying tribute to the West Papuan people, for their long commitment to freedom and their right to build a safe, free and independent West Papua.
Marching as one to end violence against women (Media release), 24 November 2017
A large marched in Coburg this morning to mark White Ribbon Day, pledging to bring an end to violence against women.
Australian first: Melbourne powers ahead with wind farm (Media release), 23 November 2017
Merri-bek and other iconic organisations join together to support the development of a wind farm that will be built near Ararat in regional Victoria.
Christmas comes early in Merri-bek (Media release), 22 November 2017
Christmas will kick off early this year in Merri-bek when the annual Carols by the Lake comes to Coburg Lake Reserve on Saturday 9 December.
Dumpers to face big fines in Council blitz on illegally dumped rubbish (Media release), 14 November 2017
Merri-bek City Council has had enough of rubbish in its streets and is calling on residents to report anyone they see dumping rubbish so Council can take action.
Community win for Merlynston Hall (Media release), 14 November 2017
An excited crowd gathered in the welcome shade of the leafy trees surrounding Merlynston Progress Hall today to mark a very special moment in the hall's long history.
Merri-bek summer about to shine (Media release), 13 November 2017
With summer just around the corner Merri-bekers are beginning to head to their local pool to stay active, cool and happy.
More art in unexpected places (Media release), 06 November 2017
Art has begun to pop up in unexpected places as part of MoreArt – Merri-bek’s annual public art show.
Moreland's new Mayor: Cr John Kavanagh (Media release), 30 October 2017
Merri-bek Councillors came together tonight to select Councillor John Kavanagh as Mayor and Cr Natalie Abboud as Deputy Mayor for 2017-18.
Memorial garden offers peaceful environment for community reflection (Media release), 30 October 2017
A new memorial garden for victims of violence within Merri-bek has been built in Coburg North’s Brosnan Park.
Merri-bek wins Premier’s Sustainability Award – Government Category (Media release), 27 October 2017
Council has won the 2017 Premier’s Sustainability Award (Government Category) for the Merri-bek Urban Heat Island Effect Action Plan at a ceremony held last night (26 October).
Brunswick's smartest streetscape (Media release), 23 October 2017
With summer just around the corner, commuters will now be able to enjoy a shadier and safer street, with key works on Dawson Street now complete.
Walk this way (Media release), 13 October 2017
Merri-bek City Council has once again joined VicHealth for Walk to School month – a fun and creative way to teach kids the benefits of active travel.
Councillor Samantha Ratnam to take up a seat in the Victorian Legislative Council (Media statement), 11 October 2017
Deputy Mayor, Cr Samantha Ratnam has resigned from Merri-bek Council effective from the 12 October 2017.
Status update on recommendations following the quality review of Council’s Aged Care after hours service changes (Media release), 10 October 2017
Extract of Executive Summary from Confidential Council Report, October 2016
Merri-bek Award winners shine (Media release), 04 October 2017
With daylight savings already brightening things up, Merri-bek City Council proudly recognised the glowing talents and achievements of its citizens at a special ceremony last night at the Coburg Town Hall.