save the dandenongs league agm 2013

I was delighted to preside over the annual elections for the Save the Dandenongs League, one of the oldest conservation groups in Victoria. They provide an important community voice and advocate for the protection and restoration of the Dandenong Ranges as a natural asset for all time.

Myself and Betty Marsden OAM, President of the Save the
 Dandenongs League, it was terrific to catch up with League
members at their AGM held at Kallista Community House.

The League began in 1950 when residents and non-residents of the Ranges were drawn together by the efforts of Miss Moon, John Turner and Cr Leane of Ferntree Gully to express their united concern about sub-division unplanned urban development across the Ranges unregulated activities of public and semi-public bodies such as the State Electricity Commission and the Country Roads Board.

They celebrated their 60th anniversary in 2010, a wonderful occasion where many a tale was told about their trials and tribulations.

At this year's Annual General Meeting various matters were reported by President, Betty Marsden OAM. Betty spoke about the loss of the two heritage buildings, Saffron Cottage and Hazelvale Dairy as part of the McDonalds development. She also talked about the newly exhibited Design and Development Overlays (planning scheme amendment C126) but reiterated that they were only general guidelines.

She also mentioned sign off of the Birdsland Masterplan and with that the call for a new management committee, she also expressed concern about the state government move to allow development in national parks.

Betty also expressed concern about the recently approved ALDI development in Monbulk and raised concerns about the Burnham Beeches development (yet to be decided by council).

In front of over 30 community members I was delighted to announce that Betty had been re-elected President of the League for the upcoming year. I was also delighted to announce Ross Whitford as Secretary, whilst Jenny Saulwick, Carolyn Ebdon and Daryl Shatte were elected general members.

Congratulations Betty, you continue to be an inspiration with your undying passion for what's special about the Dandenong Ranges.

celebrating a dandenongs institution

It was wonderful to join the 60th birthday celebration of the Save the Dandenongs League yesterday at Karwarra Gardens in Kalorama.

Here I am with Betty Marsden, current and long term president of SDL (as well as past Shire of Sherbrooke shire president and local councillor). Betty has been a driving force in proper land use and environmental protection, she is an inspiration.

Save the Dandenongs League (SDL) has played a key role in shaping the Dandenongs and have left many legacies as part of their 60 year advocacy history.

It was terrific to be able to congratulate such passionate and committed members of our community, who have worked tirelessly as the community watchdog over a span of some sixty years.

It was wonderful to hear stories of SDL founder May Moon, known not only for her fiesty and fierce protection of the Dandenong Ranges but for her memorable drop scones too.

Many recounted stories of past trials and tribulations as well as challenges for the future. SDL continues to be the voice of the community, I look forward to joining them for many future celebrations.