Blue Mountains City Council Residents Guide Residents Guide Contents

Introduction Your Community • Welcome 6 • Community Services 24 • Introduction 7 Aboriginal Services 24 • Access to Information 8 Access & Equity 24 • Aboriginal People in the Blue Aged & Disability Services 25 Mountains 9 Community Care Guide 29 Children’s Services 27 Contacts Family Day Care 29 • Blue Mountains City Council 12 Multicultural Services 30 • Emergency Numbers 12 Vacation Care 31 After hours emergency contact 12 Youth Services 31 Bushfi re 12 • Facilities 33 Storms & Flooding 12 Community Halls for Hire 33 Snow 12 Leisure Centres 34 • Hospitals 12 Libraries 35 • Transport 13 Blue Mountains Cultural Centre 36 • Bike Network Map 13 Neighbourhood Centres 37 38 • Sydney Trains 13 Parks & Ovals • Buses 13 • Waste & Recycling in your • Taxi Services 13 community 40 • Social Media 13 • Environment Initiatives & Services 44 • Cultural & Art Services 46 Your Council • Tourism 47 • Councillors 16 • How do I obtain an Echo Point • Memebers of Parliament 17 parking voucher 47 • Council Meeting Information 17 • Where can I get shcool assignment • Local Government Area information on local government 47 Statistics 18 • Council Services at a Glance 19 Your Household • Media 21 • Companion Animals 50 • Privacy of Ratepayers 21 • Waste & Recylcing in your • Roads and Maritime Services household 53 (RMS) 22 • Landuse & Development 56 • Tree Removal 56 Residents Guide Contents Introduction • Welcome • Introduction • Access to Information • Aboriginal People in the Blue Mountains Introduction Welcome

As Mayor of the Blue Mountains I would like to welcome you to our community. The Blue Mountains is a very special place to live and I hope your time living in the Mountains is both enjoyable and rewarding.

The Residents Guide has been designed to help give you an idea of the services, facilities and opportunities the City of Blue Mountains has to offer.

The Blue Mountains is made up of a number of distinct villages and townships, each with its own climate, terrain and atmosphere. We border one of the world’s greatest National Parks which was recognised in the year 2000 as a World Heritage Area.

Living in this unique and fragile environment carries responsibilities for us all. Council is working hard to protect the sensitive Blue Mountains ecosystem and every resident can play an important role in helping to care for our environment.

Council provides a range of services and facilities for residents including five aquatic centres, six libraries, sporting grounds, parks and playgrounds as well as a number of community halls and buildings across the Blue Mountains. You will find information about these and other Council services in this guide.

Council staff are also very happy to help you and can be contacted on (02) 4780 5000 at Katoomba (upper Mountains) and (02) 4723 5000 at Springwood (Lower Mountains) or email [email protected].

Again welcome to your new home in the Blue Mountains.

Clr Mark Greenhill Mayor

Residents Guide Page 6 Blue Mountains City Council Introduction

The Blue Mountains City Council is pleased to provide new residents with this Information Booklet and trusts that this quick reference guide will be of assistance to you and will give you a lead in the direction to follow on enquiries you may have.

The City of Blue Mountains is regarded as a unique place and is located on the traditional lands of the Darug and Gundungurra Nations. This area of great natural beauty annually attracts more than 3 million visitors per year from throughout the world.

The Blue Mountains features settlements that are generally confined to a narrow ridge that connects the Cumberland Plains of Sydney and the Western Plains of Central West NSW. Strung along this ridge are a series of distinct communities – each with its own sense of climate, terrain and atmosphere. Each of these communities borders one of the world’s great national parks, which was inscribed on the World Heritage List in 2000. The management of the Blue Mountains fragile ecosystem, while maintaining sustainable economic development, is the principle challenge for Blue Mountains City Council and the Community.

The Local Government area is 1,432 square kilometers in size. Its population of approximately 75,000 people is spread across 26 towns and villages on a narrow 100 km long ridge. These diverse centres include highly urbanized towns and isolated rural townships.

The major commercial centre is Katoomba, a popular destination for day trippers and overnight visitors. Katoomba is home to the famous Three Sisters, a majestic rock formation dominating the Jamison Valley. Katoomba is also an excellent base to explore areas to the West such as Jenolan Caves, Oberon, Lithgow, Bathurst, Cowra and Mudgee.

The Blue Mountains City Council is committed to protecting both the natural and the urban environment, as well as encouraging sustainable and appropriate industry.

Welcome to the Blue Mountains – enjoy living in our beautiful City and please make use of this handy resource.

Residents Guide Page 7 Blue Mountains City Council Introduction Access to Information

The Council provides access to information and records under the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009. The Act makes provision for a wide range of information to be publicly available.

What is the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009 (NSW) (GIPA Act)?

The Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009 (NSW) (GIPA Act) replaces the Freedom of Information Act 1989 (NSW) and has repealed Section 12 of the Local Government Act.

NSW government agencies, including local councils are required to release information in accordance with the GIPA Act.

Section 12 of Local Government Act 1993 - Repealed

With the commencement of the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009, Section 12 of the Local Government Act 1993 has been repealed. The same information is now accessible under Schedule 1 of the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009.

For more information and for those who wish to apply for access to documents held by Council under the GIPA Act, go to council’s website www.bmcc.nsw.gov.au/yourcouncil/accesstoinformation

Residents Guide Page 8 Blue Mountains City Council Introduction Aboriginal People in the Blue Mountains

Aboriginal People in the Blue Mountains

There are many sites throughout the Blue Mountains that are of both cultural and historical significance to Aboriginal people.

Australian’s natural and cultural heritage is integral to the environment. Our natural heritage is the physical landscape – plants, animals, mountains and rivers. This landscape is also imbued with human associations, stories, myths, personal histories and emotions.

Aboriginal people have lived in the Blue Mountains for many thousands of years. The region incorporates significant parts of the traditional lands of the Gundungarra and Darug tribal groups.

Aboriginal heritage extends well beyond archaeological sites, rock engraving and rock shelter art. It includes natural landscape features, ceremonial, mythological or religious areas, massacre sites or other places with which Aboriginal people maintain a strong spiritual or historical association.

The Blue Mountains and surrounding plateaus comprise a rich diversity of Aboriginal sites. A rock shelter on Kings Tableland, Wentworth Falls, dates Aboriginal prehistoric occupation back to 22,000 years.

Research and discovery of Aboriginal sites has centred on developed areas, that is, alongside walking tracks or close to residential development. The large extent of relatively unexplored terrain potentially contains a wealth of important Aboriginal sites. Large areas have not been the subject of systematic survey or the recording of Aboriginal history. These areas may contain sites which are not currently known.

The Aboriginal People of the Blue Mountains invite you to share their unique home.

For information on Aboriginal Services contact the Aboriginal Community Development Officer on (02) 4780 5560 or visit: www.bmcc.nsw.gov.au/yourcommunity/communityservices/ aboriginalservices

Residents Guide Page 9 Blue Mountains City Council Residents Guide Contacts

Contacts • Blue Mountains City Council • Emergency Numbers After hours emergency contact Bushfi re Storms & Flooding Snow • Hospitals • Transport • Bike Network Map • Sydney Trains • Buses • Taxi Services • Social Media Contacts Blue Mountians City Council Administrative Headquarters Springwood Office – Katoomba Office Monday to Friday, 10am to 5pm Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 5pm 104 Macquarie Road, SPRINGWOOD NSW 2777 2-6 Civic Place, KATOOMBA NSW 2780 Inside Springwood Library Postal Address Email Locked Bag 1005 [email protected] KATOOMBA NSW 2780 Telephone: Website: www.bmcc.nsw.gov.au for local call cost from Lower Mountains (02) 4780 5555 Online community consultation forum: Upper Mountains (02) 4723 5000 www.bluemountainshaveyoursay.com.au Fax: (02) 4780 5000

Emergency Numbers After Hours Emergencies Ph: (02) 4780 5000 (Including fallen trees, animal control, Council building break-in/vandalism) Fire Brigade/Police/Ambulance Ph: 000 (Emergencies) State Emergency Services (SES) Katoomba Ph: (02) 4782 3200 Ph: 132 500 (Emergencies/Flood or Storm Damage/Snowfall) Bushfires - Rural Fire Service (RFS) Ph:(02) 4782 2159 www.rfs.nsw.gov.au

In all emergencies please dial Triple Zero 000 Hospitals Blue Mountains District ANZAC Memorial (with Emergency Department) Ph (02) 4784 6500 Cnr. Woodlands Road and Great Western Highway, Katoomba Nepean (with Emergency Department) Ph (02) 4734 2000 Entrance via Derby Street, Kingswood Springwood (no Emergency Department) Ph (02) 4751 0300 7 Huntley Grange Road, Springwood

For information concerning these hospitals please visit the Sydney West Area Health Service Website at www.swahs.health.nsw.gov.au or call 1234 for Directory Assistance.

In all emergencies please dial Triple Zero 000

Residents Guide Page 12 Blue Mountains City Council Contacts Transport Bike Network Map

The Blue Mountains Bike Plan 2020 aims to create safe and accessible pathways of travel that improves our connections with our destinations and each other and encourages people of all ages to use their bicycles for everyday transportation and enjoyment. For a Bike Network Map visit Council’s website www.bmcc.nsw.gov.au/yourcouncil/ policiesplansandstrategies/ or contact Council on: Lower Mountains on (02) 4723 5000 Upper Mountains on (02) 4780 5000 Sydney Trains For Blue Mountains Train Timetable information please visit: www.sydneytrains.info or telephone 131 500. Buses Blue Mountains Bus Company (Services the Area Mt. Victoria to Emu Plains) For Blue Mountains Bus Timetable information please visit www.bmbc.com.au ([email protected]) or (02) 4751 1077 or fax (02) 4751 1079 Jones Bros Bus Company Pty Ltd (Provides a school service from Bell, Mt. Victoria and Blackheath to Lithgow) For Bus Timetable information please visit www.jonesbros.com.au ([email protected] ) or (02) 6352 3888 or fax (02) 6351 3206

Taxi Services Wentworth Falls to Mt Victoria (02) 4782 1311 Katoomba Radio Cabs Co-op Ltd Katoomba NSW 2780 Hazelbrook-Lawson (02) 4759 3000 Blue Mountains Taxi Cabs Honour Ave Lawson 2783 Springwood-Winmalee (02) 4751 1444 Springwood and Districts Taxis Macquarie Road Springwood NSW 2777 Glenbrook-Blaxland (02) 4731 4888 Glenbrook Blaxland Taxis 2 David St Glenbrook NSW 2773

Social Media Council is active and available across a range of social media platforms, to help keep you up to date with important information and Council events. Like us on Facebook – www.facebook.com/bluemountainscitycouncil Follow us on Twitter – www.twitter.com/BlumtsCtyCncl Subscribe to our YouTube Channel – www.youtube.com/user/BlueMtnsCityCouncil Flick through our Flickr Photos – www.flickr.com/photos/bluemntscitycouncil/

Residents Guide Page 13 Blue Mountains City Council Residents Guide Your Council

Your Council • Councillors • Members of Parliament • Council Meeting Information • Local Government Area Statistics • Council Services at a Glance • Media • Privacy of Ratepayers • Roads and Maritime Services (RMS) Your Council Councillors

Ward 1 – Bell to Leura, Megalong Valley & the Mounts BEGG, Michael Mobile: 0431 501 981 Locked Bag 1005 KATOOMBA NSW 2780 Email: [email protected] SHRUBB, Sarah Mobile: 0414 195 980 Locked Bag 1005 KATOOMBA NSW 2780 Email: [email protected] McGREGOR, Don Mobile: 0434 306 143 Locked Bag 1005 KATOOMBA NSW 2780 Email: [email protected] Ward 2 - Wentworth Falls to Faulconbridge/Springwood HOLLYWOOD, Romola Mobile: 0414 195 983 Locked Bag 1005 KATOOMBA NSW 2780 Email: [email protected] BENNETT, Annette Mobile: 0431 501 984 Locked Bag 1005 KATOOMBA NSW 2780 Email: [email protected] VAN DER KLEY, Chris Mobile: 0427 805 810 (DEPUTY MAYOR) Locked Bag 1005 KATOOMBA NSW 2780 Email: [email protected] Ward 3 – Faulconbridge/Springwood to Valley Heights LUCHETTI, Brendan Mobile: 0414 195 986 Locked Bag 1005 KATOOMBA NSW 2780 Email: [email protected] FELL, Mick Mobile: 0414 195 991 Locked Bag 1005 KATOOMBA NSW 2780 Email: [email protected] MYLES, Daniel Mobile: 0414 418 161 PO Box 455 SPRINGWOOD NSW 2777 Email: [email protected] Ward 4 - Warrimoo to Lapstone GREENHILL, Mark Mobile: 0414 195 990 (MAYOR) Locked Bag 1005 KATOOMBA NSW 2780 Email: [email protected]

CHRISTIE, Brendan Mobile: 0423 565 988 Locked Bag 1005 KATOOMBA NSW 2780 Email: [email protected]

VON SCHULENBURG, Anton Mobile: 0414 195 989 Locked Bag 1005 KATOOMBA NSW 2780 Email: [email protected]

Residents Guide Page 16 Blue Mountains City Council Your Council Members of Parliament Member for Macquarie (Federal) Member for Blue Mountains (NSW) Mrs. Louise Markus MP Ms. Trish Doyle, MP (Member of Liberal Party of Australia) (Member of Labor Party of Australia)

Parliament House contact: Electorate Office contact: PO Box 6022 House of Representatives to be confirmed following the NSW Election on 28 Parliament House March 2015 Canberra ACT 2600 Tel: (02) 6277 2371 Fax: (02) 6277 8463 Member for Penrith (NSW) Email: [email protected] Mr. Stuart Ayres, MP Electorate Office Contact: (Member of Liberal Party of Australia) Shop 24, Riverview Shopping Centre 227 George Street Electorate Office contact: PO Box 855 Windsor NSW 2756 Shop 11, Station Street Tel: (02) 4577 2631 Penrith NSW 2750 Fax: (02) 4577 2640 Ph: (02) 4722 8660 Fax: (02) 4731 4782 Email: [email protected] Council Meeting Information Council Meetings are held from 7:00pm in the Council Chambers, 2 Civic Place, Katoomba (unless otherwise stated). The latest information concerning Council Meetings may be obtained by telephoning Council's Executive Services Branch staff on (02) 4780 5491 or (02) 4780 5508. All Business Papers from 1998 to the present are available in hardcopy form at Council’s Libraries and Offices on request and in PDF format by visiting the Blue Mountains City Council website www.bmcc. nsw.gov.au . The current Business Paper is also available in hard copy for inspection at Council's Libraries and Offices on the Wednesday afternoon preceding the meeting.

Business Papers and Minutes Before each Council meeting, a Business Paper is prepared detailing the items that are to be presented to the Council meeting. Readers should be aware that the Recommendations and Notices of Motion as set out in the Council Business Paper are simply proposals to the Council for its consideration. The Council may adopt these proposals, amend the proposals, determine a completely different course of action, or it may decline to pursue any course of action. The decision of the Council becomes a resolution of the Council and is recorded in the Council Minutes. Readers are referred to this separate document. The Council Business Paper and the Council Minutes are linked by the common Item Numbers and Titles. For further information please telephone Upper Mountains (02) 4780 5000 or Lower Mountains (02) 4723 5000 (local call charge from areas east of Linden) or email [email protected] . Residents Guide Page 17 Blue Mountains City Council Local Government Area Statistics Local Government Area -1,432 sq km Enrolment- 44,179

2011 Census Statistics Person Characteristics Total Persons: 75,942 Males: 36,711 (48.3% of total persons for Region) Females: 39,237 (51.6% of total persons for Region)

Age groups Males Females Persons % of total persons for Region 0-4 years 2,444 2,261 4,700 6.2% 5-9 years 5,352 5,056 5,003 6.6% 10-14 years 2,697 2,597 5,093 6.7% 15-19 years 2,127 1,841 4,987 6.6% 20-29 years 3,724 3,939 6,989 9.2% 30-39 years 5,038 5,628 8,618 11.4% 40-49 years 5,700 6,261 11,141 14.7% 50-59 years 4,623 4,884 12,021 15.9% 60-69 years 2,459 2,801 9,525 12.5% 70-79 years 1,406 1,985 4,808 6.3% 80 years and over 361 884 3,055 4.1%

For further information visit, Australian Bureau Statistics: 2011 Census www.abs.gov.au

Residents Guide Page 18 Blue Mountains City Council Council Services at a Glance

Blue Mountains City Council provides the following ongoing day-to-day external services for the community. In providing these services the Council manages a wide range of assets and natural areas on behalf of the community such as roads, parks, ovals, bushland reserves, swimming pools, community centres, libraries, halls, childcare facilities, walking tracks, lookouts, footpaths and stormwater drainage.

Looking After Environment – Libraries and Information – Natural Environment – Sport and Recreation – Waste Resource Management Sustainable Economy – Water Resource Management – Economic Development & Tourism Using Land – Commercial Activities – Burial and Ashes Placement Civic Leadership-Good Governance – Building Certification – Administrative Property Portfolio – Land Use Management – Asset Planning – Town Centres – Central Warehousing and Purchasing Moving Around – City-wide Strategic Planning – Transport and Public Access – Corporate Communications and Marketing Looking After People – Corporate Strategic Planning and Reporting – Aquatic and Leisure Centres – Customer Service – Community Development – Finance Management – Cultural Development – Fleet – Emergency Management – Governance and Risk – Environmental Health & Regulatory – Information Solutions Compliance – People and Safety – Family Day Care

Residents Guide Page 19 Blue Mountains City Council Blue Mountains City Council also manages, to support the provision of services, over $1 billion worth of assets and facilities.

This includes: • 27 towns and villages • 2 waste resource management facilities • 1 dam • 300km of water ways • 665km sealed roads • 120km unsealed roads • 34 bridges • 73,000 sqm of sealed car parks • 523 km kerb and gutter • 153km stormwater pipes • 175km footpaths • 105 parks • 66 playing courts • 5 swim leisure centres • 5 skate parks • 15 halls including 5 community centres • 12 child care buildings • 6 libraries • 126 bus shelters • 189 litter bins • 493km kerbs & gutter • 7,935 drainage pits • 120km walking tracks • 35 playing fields at 22 sportsgrounds • 31 RFS & SES buildings • 300 bushfire asset protection zones • 88 public toilets • 9 cemeteries

Residents Guide Page 20 Blue Mountains City Council Media Blue Mountains Gazette Circulating throughout the Blue Mountains Lithgow to Lapstone Springwood Office 274 Macquarie Road Telephone: (02) 4751 1955 Fax: (02) 4751 5556 Email: [email protected] Website: www.bluemountainsgazette.com.au Katoomba Office 16 Katoomba Street Telephone: (02) 4782 4788 Fax: (02) 4782 4881

Radio Blue Mountains Studio 7 Gang Gang Street Katoomba Office: (02) 4782 9286 Studio: (02) 4782 2490 Email: [email protected] Website: http://www.rbm.org.au Privacy of Ratepayers Blue Mountains City Council has a responsibility to protect the privacy of ratepayers, residents and the public. You have rights in relation to information held by Council that relates to you.

The Council must tell you how we will use any personal information we might collect from you and let you know how you can find out what personal information we might have recorded.

Council will only disclose your personal information if: • You have consented to the disclosure • The disclosure is required or authorised by law • Where it is necessary to lessen a threat to someone's life or health Privacy Statement (as at 1/8/2013) Blue Mountains City Council is committed to protecting your personal information. This Statement outlines Council's practices relating to personal information obtained through access to its website. Council has adopted a Privacy Management Plan in accordance with the Privacy and Person- al Information Protection Act 1998 (the Privacy Act) and the Department of Local Government Model Privacy Management Plan 2013.

Collecting Your Information Council will only collect personal information directly from you, or your authorised agent. The infor- mation collected will be for lawful purposes directly related to the functions of Council. Council will only request information that is necessary for the purpose of the collection. If you do not wish to provide personal information to Council, it may be unable to provide you with the services required. In accordance with the Privacy Act, you can make application for Council to consider suppressing your personal information from a public register held by Council. How we use your personal information

Residents Guide Page 21 Blue Mountains City Council Council will use your information for the purpose for which it was collected. Council will use your information to understand community and customer needs to improve our services. Council may use your information to let you know about services or other information available. (eg News from the Hill). Disclosure of your personal information Council will only disclose your personal information if: • You have consented to the disclosure • The disclosure is required or authorised by law • Where it is necessary to lessen a threat to someone's life or health Accuracy of your personal information Council will take reasonable care to ensure that the personal information it collects, uses or disclos- es is accurate, complete and up to date. Storage and Security of your personal information Council will take all reasonable steps to protect the personal information it holds from misuse, unau- thorised access and modification. How to access, correct or update your personal information If you want to know exactly what personal information the Council is holding about you, you are welcome to request such information by contacting the Council's Privacy Officer. You can apply to Council to amend your personal information to ensure it is relevant, up to date and complete and not misleading. Use the Personal Information Form (download at right) to make an application to amend your personal information Council has recorded. Note: you will need to present some personal identification when you make an application so Council staff can verify that you have the authority to amend the information. How we dispose of your personal information Council will dispose of your personal information in accordance with the State Records Act 1998.

RMS - Roads & Maritime Services Blue Mountains City Council is an agency for the RMS. We are able to assist with most of your licensing and vehicle registration needs at Council's Administrative Headquarters located at 2 Civic Place, Katoomba.

The agency operates from 8:30am to 5:00pm week days.

Please direct RMS phone enquiries to 13 22 13 or www.rta.nsw.gov.au.

Great Western Highway upgrading For information please visit the Blue Mountains City Council Website at www.bmcc.nsw.gov.au and go to A – Z Listing of Services, “T” for Transport Corridor or visit the RMS Website www.rms.nsw.gov. au .

Residents Guide Page 22 Blue Mountains City Council Residents Guide Your Community

Your Community • Community Services Aboriginal Services Access & Equity Aged & Disability Services Community Care Guide Children’s Services Family Day Care Multicultural Services Vacation Care Youth Services • Facilities Community Halls for Hire Leisure Centres Libraries Blue Mountains Cultural Centre Neighbourhood Centres Parks & Ovals • Waste & Recycling in your community • Environment Initiatives & Services • Cultural & Art Services • Tourism • How do I obtain an Echo Point parking voucher • Where can I get shcool assignment information on local government Your Community Community Services Blue Mountains City Council has a Community Outcomes Team focusing on supporting, facilitating and resourcing community development in the Blue Mountains. Specific services include:

Aboriginal Services Aboriginal people have lived in the Blue Mountains for many thousands of years. The region incorporates significant parts of the traditional lands of the Gundungurra and Darug tribal groups. For information on Aboriginal Services contact the Aboriginal Community Development Officer on (02) 4780 5560 or visit: www.bmcc.nsw.gov.au/yourcommunity/communityservices/aboriginalservices

BMCC Aboriginal Advisory Council In September 2010 Blue Mountains City Council resolved to endorse the membership of the then First Peoples Advisory Committee. The appointment of the Advisory Committee members was the result of a broad engagement process with the local Aboriginal community. In 2013 new committee membership was endorsed and the committee was re-named the BMCC Aboriginal Advisory Council (AAC). The AAC provides advice to the Council on matters that are significant to the Blue Mountains Aboriginal community, with the Council also seeking advice from the AAC when there are matters important to the Council that involve the Aboriginal community. The Aboriginal Advisory Council has been established to provide: • An opportunity where Aboriginal peoples voices can be heard on issues relating to the Councils polices, plans and services and Aboriginal Communities needs and priorities; • A robust communication mechanism, between the Council and the Aboriginal communities; and • A meaningful engagement and relationship between the Council and the Aboriginal communities.

The Aboriginal Advisory Council meets a number of times per year at different venues in the Blue Mountains LGA. If you would like more information about the Aboriginal Advisory Council or to contact this committee email: [email protected]

Access and Equity The Community Outcomes Team convenes Council's Access and Equity Working Group which oversees Council's Access and Equity initiatives. The Working Group consists of staff representatives from all relevant Groups of Council and four community representatives. For more information contact the Blue Mountains City Council on (02) 4780 5000. Blue Mountains declared a Refugee Welcome Zone, April 2004 At its meeting of 27 April 2004 (Minute No. 207), Council resolved: "that Blue Mountains City Council sign the Refugee Welcome Zone declaration as advocated by the Refugee Council of Australia". Council adopted the Access and Equity Policy in January 2000. This policy provides a framework for supporting an ongoing "whole of Council" approach to achieving access and equity in service provision. Access and equity activities, as outlined in Council's adopted Access and Equity Policy, are those that benefit both the broader community and / or particular target groups within it and which help Council to: • Promote fairness in distribution of resources, particularly for those most in need; • Recognise and promote people's rights and improve accountability of decision makers; Residents Guide Page 24 Blue Mountains City Council • Ensure people have fairer access to the resources and services essential to meeting their needs and improving their quality of life; and • Give people better opportunities for genuine participation and consultation about decisions affecting their lives

Blue Mountains City Council Access and Equity Working Group Council's Access and Equity Working Group oversees Council's Access and Equity initiatives. The Working Group consists of staff representatives from all relevant Groups of Council and three community representatives. Since its initiation in 2001 this Working Group has coordinated access and equity work across the organisation and with external groups. It has also advised on the expenditure of funding to upgrade access in existing Council building facilities. Contact us Post Access and Equity Working Group Corporate Planning Blue Mountains City Council Locked Bag 1005 KATOOMBA NSW 2780 Telephone: (02) 4780 5000 Fax: (02) 4780 5555 Email: [email protected] If you would like to know the accessible toilets and parking spaces throughout the mountains you can download via your mobile or computer the free app at WheelMate

Aged and Disability Services There are a diverse range of services and programs designed to support and encourage older people living in the Blue Mountains to participate in community life. The Blue Mountains population is an ageing one, with the proportion of the population in the older age groups increasing. In accordance with the 2006 census the 60+ age group makes up 13,967 or 18.8% of the population. It is projected that the number of older people will increase to 4,997 by 2018. Due to the Blue Mountains population ageing, there will be a substantial increase in the demand for services. Blue Mountains City Council will strive to meet this demand by working in close partnership with the Department of Ageing Disability and Home Care and the Department of Health to provide our seniors with access to health services, Meals on Wheels, Respite services, and other vital community care services. Seniors Card Applications for a Seniors Card can only be made online at www.seniorscard.nsw.gov.au/home.asp A Seniors Card is a discount-shopping card for older people. Seniors Card holders are also entitled through this card to a discount in their travel, for eg at the cost of $2.50 seniors can enjoy an all round trip on a ferry, train and bus. The scheme is free to join. To qualify you must be a NSW permanent resident aged 60 years or over and work no more than 20 hours a week in paid employment. Each year Seniors Car holders are sent a Guide for the region they live in, listing businesses that offer Seniors Card discounts.

Residents Guide Page 25 Blue Mountains City Council Access and Equity Working Group Council has an Access and Equity Working Group, the aim of the working group is to promote fairness in the distribution of resources, and to provide an accessible and equitable environment throughout the Blue Mountains Local Government area. The working group consists of staff representatives from all relevant groups of Council and four community representatives. Community Care Guide The Community Care Guide is a booklet that lists a number of services available throughout the Blue Mountains that can assist the Frail Aged, Disabled and their Carers to live more independently. Services in this booklet include Meals on Wheels, Respite Care and Home Help. Physical Activity Services Directory Staying Physically Active is a comprehensive booklet that lists A to Y physical services and activities both at an individual level and group level available in the Blue Mountains that Older People can participate in, whether actively or as a volunteer. The directory also has a monthly planner to help people get started in an exercise program.

Contact Council's Aged and Disability Services Development Officer on (02) 4780 5546 for more information. Pets of Older Persons (POOPS) Program Pets are renowned for their therapeutic ability to heal the sick, the lonely and the isolated elderly. However age and or disability can often restrict the elderly from caring for their best friend. Pets of Older Persons or more commonly known as POOPs provides a number of services to assist the elderly with the care of their pet. This service which is an initiative of the Aged Care Assessment Team and the RSPCA covers clients in Western Sydney and the Blue Mountains. Some of the services provided under POOPS include: • Monthly grooming • Treatment by RSPCA vets when required • Assistance with Pet food if needed. For more information on any of these services please see Council’s website or contact Council Phone: (02) 4780 5000 Email: [email protected]

Residents Guide Page 26 Blue Mountains City Council Children’s Services The early childhood years are recognised as a unique stage within the human life cycle. The role of the parent or carer in these early childhood years is seen as the most important in a young child's life. There is also another significant contribution that can be made to the child's early years and that is the role of the children's service. A parent's understanding and appreciation of their child can be enhanced by the child's participation in an early childhood service. Many families place their children into services long before 'formal schooling' begins. Services such as long day care, preschool or playgroup are most common.

The children's service is most often the entrance point for support for children and their families. It is a point where support can be received, information can be shared and families can extend their networks and partnerships into the broader community, leading to participation in other community activities. Your child will have access to many worthwhile learning and development opportunities through the experiences offered at the early childhood service. To choose a service you need to firstly know what is available. You need clear and factual information in order to make an informed choice about care for your child. Refer to "A Guide to Children's Services in the Blue Mountains", produced by Blue Mountains City Council, which lists services for children, explains the types of services available and offers a list of questions for you to answer to assist you in the childcare decision making process. More information about topics including immunization, early intervention services, toy libraries and parenting tips can be obtained by selecting from the links on this site.To include a link or provide feedback about this site please contact the Child and Family Services Development Officer on telephone (02) 4780 5542.

Children's Services Directory Blue Mountains City Council's Community Outcomes Team is pleased to launch our new Guide to Services and Activities for Children and Families. In producing this guide we have attempted to include all the services in or around our area relevant to children, parents, carers and associated services. Included are sections on childcare, preschool and school aged services; through to parenting support, meeting other parents, health services and recreation activities. We welcome your feedback, suggestions or updates; please contact Council's Child and Family Services Development Officer on (02) 4780 5542.

Think about how often families, teachers, friends and playmates hear this from children everywhere. It is an invitation to the world to share in a child’s joy at a new discovery or to notice and celebrate their attempts at mastering a new skill. From taking their first steps, learning new words, riding a bike for the first time or reading a book all by themselves, children invite the people in their world to notice, support and encourage them as they discover and learn. Children’s Week is a week which helps to remind us all of the enduring presence and importance of children in our homes, neighbourhoods and local communities. Children’s Week is proudly supported by Blue Mountains City Council and the Blue Mountains Children’s Week Planning Committee. For further information please contact Council's Community Project Support Officer on (02) 4780 5631.

Residents Guide Page 27 Blue Mountains City Council Partnerships In Learning: Linking children, families and early childhood services

The Partnerships In Learning project was a research partnership between the University of Western Sydney and Blue Mountains City Council. The purpose of the project was to find out from parents what were the barriers and enablers to their child participating in an early childhood education and care program. Early childhood services examined in the study included child care, preschool, family day care and supported playgroups. The pilot project was conducted in partnership with families living in the Katoomba and Leura whose children were now in Kindergarten. It is hoped through additional funding the project will be extended throughout the Blue Mountains. Council conducted this research in response to long-term research showing that quality early childhood education supports children to do well at school and go onto to access post school education and employment. A significant finding was that many parents did not realize that children receive an early childhood education at long day care centres. In NSW pre-schools and long day care centres are licensed by the same set of regulations. These regulations require both types of service provide an early childhood education program. You can therefore ensure your child gains an early childhood education through enrolment in a long day care centre in New South Wales. The report also found that parents do not know what to look for when assessing quality of care in Children's Services. For more information about quality in Children's Services please see Blue Mountains City Council's Guide to Services and Activities for Children and Families page 6, Choosing an Early Childhood Service. Contact Council on (02) 4780 5000 to obtain a copy of the report. The findings from the research project also showed that: • Services were easiest to access when they were affordable, flexible and convenient. • Barriers to accessing services included cost, transport, availability of places, lack of information and parents not understanding the benefits that early childhood education services offered children. • Parents and teachers understood that children being ‘ready to start school’ was underpinned by children's emotional and social development, rather than just their knowledge of numbers and letters.

Residents Guide Page 28 Blue Mountains City Council Community Care Guide The Community Care Guide is a booklet that lists a number of services available throughout the Blue Mountains that can assist the Frail Aged, Disabled and their Carers to live more independently. Services in this booklet include Meals on Wheels, Respite Care and Home Help. The booklet can be downloaded at right, and is also available from Council's Customer Service Centres, library branches, local GPs, medical centres, and chemists free of charge. Alternatively contact Prue Hardgrove, Council's Aged and Disability Services Officer on (02) 4780 5546. For those with a vision impairment an audio CD of this booklet is available via the neighbourhood centres, and library branches. If you do receive a service, you can stop receiving this service if you wish to or if your circumstances change. All information given to a service regarding your circumstances remains confidential. If you have an issue regarding paying a fee for a service this can be discussed with the service provider, and an agreement between yourself and the service will be arranged. www.bmcc.nsw.gov.au/yourcommunity/communityservices/communitycareguide

Family Day Care Quality Home Based Care for Children 0-12 years. Family Day Care is flexible small group child care offering every child and parent the benefit of warm, personal attention and enriching experiences in a safe family home. Corner San Jose Avenue and Loftus Street, Lawson Phone: (02) 4780 5280 Fax: (02) 4759 1922 Monday to Friday 8:30am - 5:00pm. An answering service operates after hours.

Family Day Care in the Blue Mountains Family Day Care commenced in the Blue Mountains in March 1980. The Service is funded by the Federal Government early childhood section of the Department of Education, employment and workplace relations and is sponsored by Blue Mountains City Council. What is Family Day Care? Licensed Educators operate from their own homes, and are assessed, registered, trained and supported by the Blue Mountains Family Day Care Co ordination team. Our educators are committed people who have participated in training to ensure the highest quality child care for your child. This means the educator can give each child the personal care and attention which is vital to help young children develop new skills and interests. The children also form friendships with their play mates easily in groups of this size. We welcome applications to become a educator. We can train and support you to operate a rewarding small business that can generate a very good income. If you are a parent seeking childcare, we encourage you to give your child the very best family- based, individual care. Email Family Day Care to request for childcare. We work to assure that children and parents have equal access to home based childcare, appropriate to individual and special needs, that is also:

Residents Guide Page 29 Blue Mountains City Council • Affordable • Safe and • High quality What would my child be doing? The emphasis in Family Day Care is on security, warmth, learning and fun in a home environment. There isn't a fixed routine but there are plenty of fun activities for the children, including singing, listening to music and stories, make-believe play and dressing-up. The children are also included in normal daily household routines such as cooking, shopping and visiting friends, relatives and other places. Most Family Day Care educators attend regular organised playgroups with other educators so that the children can play together in larger groups. You can discuss your child's activities directly with your educator. Family Day Care Staff The Service Coordinator is responsible for the overall management of the service and the recruitment of educators. An important part of this position is maintaining parent, educator and staff relations. Childcare Services Officers provide support and resources to educators and monitor children's development and the placement of their care. Administrative Officers respond to daily enquiries process rebates and maintain the office records. Charges 2014/2015 • Administration Levy - Families: $1.10 per hour per child • Administration Levy - Educators: $12.00 per week • Playgroup: $1.90 per child/session • New Family Registration Fee: $43.00 • New Educator Registration Fee: $190.00 For more information on Family Day Care go to www.bmcc.nsw.gov.au/yourcommunity/ communityservices/familydaycare Multicultural Services The Blue Mountains is home to people from many cultural and linguistic backgrounds. The traditional owners of Blue Mountains are the Darug and Gundungurra peoples, who have strong and ongoing connections to their traditional lands, cultures, heritage and history. Migration to Australia over the last 220 years from more than 200 countries has made Australia one of the most culturally diverse nations in the world. The 2006 census indicated that approximately 6.3% of the Blue Mountains population was born in a non-English speaking country. Residents from Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) backgrounds living in the Blue Mountains are scattered throughout the LGA with people from European, Middle Eastern, Asian, African and Latin American countries. Blue Mountains City Council supports initiatives that contribute to a safe, caring and inclusive community through the implementation of a range of community safety initiatives, community diversity celebrations, and the provision of support for people from Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) backgrounds. Information Blue Mountains Multicultural Service and Resource Directory The aim of this directory is to assist service providers and community members with CALD specific

Residents Guide Page 30 Blue Mountains City Council service and resource information in the absence of locally based multicultural services. It is also hoped that by making this information available it will encourage local services to meet their access and equity commitments to CALD residents; and CALD community members will have greater access to available services, resources and information. This directory was developed and produced as a result of a long standing campaign to provide better Access and Equity for the CALD community living in the Blue Mountains. It was conceptualised by Mountains Community Resource Network (MCRN), Sydney West Area Health Service Multicultural Health Network Western Cluster, Mountains Multicultural Interagency and Blue Mountains Multicultural Residents Association (MRA); and was researched and developed by Julianne Abood in her capacity of MCRN project worker, and produced by MCRN in partnership with Blue Mountains City Council.

East Meets West East meets West: Exploring Cultural Diversity in the Blue Mountains, a research project funded and overseen by Sydney West Area Health Service, came about in response to concerns among service providers in the Blue Mountains about engaging with and providing culturally appropriate services to local residents from CALD backgrounds, in the absence of locally based multicultural workers. The project's report details extensive qualitative research findings and recommendations, which include the recommendation for the development of 'a directory of CALD specific programs, services, multilingual groups and voluntary associations and source points for CALD specific and multilingual information' (Recommendation 3.2.6:10), and which led to the development of the Blue Mountains Multicultural Directory. The East Meets West research demonstrated that, despite stereotypes of a mono-cultural tradition, the Blue Mountains is home to people from many cultural and linguistic backgrounds, whose contribution can be seen in the rich and diverse range of artistic, cultural and business enterprises across the area.

For information, events and celebrations and contact details for local multicultural groups and services please contact the Community Outcomes team on (02) 4780 5000 or see Council’s website

Vacation Care To find out more about Blackheath Vacation Care please contact: Blackheath Area Neighbourhood Centre on (02) 4787 7770 Youth Services There are a diverse range of services for young people throughout the Blue Mountains. Blue Mountains City Council's "Strategy for Young People 2002-2007" outlines Council's commitment to creating and strengthening partnerships with youth services in order to provide excellent facilities for young people in areas of health, housing, recreation and employment. Young people are generally defined as being between the ages of 12 to 24. At the 1996 Census there were 12,755 young people living in the Blue Mountains, approximately 17.6% of the population. You can download a brief listing of local services that work with young people on Council’s website. For any questions regarding Youth Services or events, contact the Youth Services Development Officer on (02) 4780 5545 or go to www.mountainsofhelp.org.au

Youth Council 2013 marked the Blue Mountains Youth Council's 10th year, and from Council's perspective, the

Residents Guide Page 31 Blue Mountains City Council involvement of young people is very important - we need to understand how young people throughout the Blue Mountains feel about decisions we make that affect them. It is also a chance young people to educate Council, let us know what's working, what your needs are and your dreams for this city, your home. Some of the outstanding achievements of Blue Mountains Youth Council so far have been: • Hosting a visit from the NSW Commissioner for Children and Young People, Gillian Calvert, and doing a formal consultation with the Commission on matters of youth health to inform NSW Health policy. • Creation of a short film 'I Can Do What You Can Do' - concerning the achievements of Youth Councillor Anthony Fowler, premiered during Youth Week 2007. • Presentating to Councillors on issues relating to the Glenbrook Skatepark Facility. • Initiating the SmartStart University Scholarship, a partnership with Blue Mountains City Council and the University of Western Sydneywhich aims to improve access to University of Western Sydney for young residents of the Blue Mountains. • Representation on a number of internal and external committees including: the NSW Commission for Children and Young People's Advisory Committee, the NSW Youth Week Committee, the Blue Mountains World Heritage Advisory Committee and most recently the NSW Youth Parliament. Council is committed to supporting young people's involvement in decision-making, and strives towards creating a positive, healthy, inclusive environment in the Blue Mountains for our young people to grow and thrive. For more information contact Council's Youth Services Development Officer on (02) 4780 5680.

Residents Guide Page 32 Blue Mountains City Council Your Community Facilities Community Halls for Hire Whether you need a small hall for an activity space for children, birthday party, meeting or a venue large enough for a wedding, community festival or seminar there is a good chance there will be a community hall that will fit the bill. Council is custodian of a number of public halls conveniently located in the Upper, Mid and Lower Blue Mountains which are available for use by residents and community groups. Hire fees are dependent on the type and period of usage. Council has a fixed scale of fees and charges and these include a special discount rate for non-profit activities. For general information and / or to book the under-mentioned venues contact the relevant booking officer. Halls in the Upper Mountains: • Mount Wilson Village Hall • Mount Victoria Public Hall and Cinema • Blackheath Community Centre • Megalong Valley Community Hall • Katoomba / Leura Seniors and Community Centre • Wentworth Falls School of Arts Halls in the Mid Mountains: • Mid Mountains Community Centre, • Lawson Community Hall (Mechanics Institute) • Gloria Park Pavilion, • Weroona Park Meeting Facility. Halls in the Lower Mountains: • Faulconbridge Community Hall • Springwood Civic Centre (is currently undergoing upgrades) • Winmalee Community Hall • Braemar Gallery • Warrimoo Citizens Hall • Blaxland Community Centre • Mount Riverview Hall • Glenbrook School of Arts

To find out more about the locations, venue size and contact details of the numerous community halls available for hire please visit Council's Website at www.bmcc.nsw.gov.au > Council Services > Halls for Hire or phone the Community Facilities Co-ordinator on (02) 4780 5425. Contact Details • Blackheath Community Centre Booking Officer (02) 4787 7770 • Blaxland Community Centre Facilities Liaison Officer (02) 4780 5025 • Braemar Gallery Booking Officer (02) 4723 5046 • Faulconbridge Community Centre Facilities Liaison Officer (02) 4780 5735 • Glenbrook Hall Booking Officer (02) 4739 2601

Residents Guide Page 33 Blue Mountains City Council • Gloria Park Pavilion Facilities Liaison Officer (02) 4780 5025 • Katoomba-Leura Senior Citizens / Community Centre Booking Officer (02) 4782 9745 • Lawson Community Hall (Mechanics Institute Facilities Liaison Officer (02) 4780 5735 • Megalong Valley Community Hall Booking Officer (02) 4780 9181 • Mid Mountains Community Centre Facilities Liaison Officer (02) 4780 5735 • Mount Riverview Hall Facilities Liaison Officer (02) 4780 5025 • Mount Victoria Public Hall Booking Officer (02) 4787 1577 • Mount Wilson Village Hall Booking Officer (02) 4756 2120 • Springwood Civic Centre Facilities Liaison Officer (02) 4780 5025 • Warrimoo Citizens Hall Facilities Liaison Officer (02) 4780 5735 Leisure Centres Blue Mountains City Council has five dedicated leisure centres throughout the Blue Mountains all offering different facilities. There are two Leisure centres open year round, one at Katoomba and one at Springwood each with a range of competitive and recreational pools and programs as well as Fitness centres and group fitness available. The three outdoor pool facilities at Glenbrook, Lawson and Blackheath each have a range of competitive and recreational pools and are open seasonally. All Blue Mountains Leisure Centres offer Swim and Survive Learn-to-Swim lessons. All Blue Mountains Leisure Centres are closed on Good Friday and Christmas Day and close at 5:00pm on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve. On Anzac Day, all Centres will be closed until midday. For more information about a specific site please contact the relevant centre or the Co-ordinator – Sales and Marketing on telephone (02) 4723 5114 or visit www.bmleisurecentres.com.au Blackheath Pool Prince Edward Street Phone: (02) 4787 8018 Facebook: www.facebook.com/pages/Blackheath-Pool Glenbrook Swim Centre Wascoe Street / Fletcher Street Phone: (02) 4739 5880 Facebook: www.facebook.com/pages/Glenbrook-Swim-Centre Katoomba Sports and Aquatic Centre Catalina Avenue Phone: (02) 4782 1748 Facebook: www.facebook.com/pages/Katoomba-Sports-Aquatic-Centre Lawson Swim Centre St Bernards Drive Phone: (02) 4759 1458 Facebook: www.facebook.com/pages/Lawson-Swim-Centre Springwood Aquatic and Fitness Centre Plateau Road Phone: (02) 4723 5111 Facebook: www.facebook.com/pages/Springwood-Aquatic-Fitness-Centre

Residents Guide Page 34 Blue Mountains City Council Libraries The Blue Mountains Library Service comprises 6 Branch Libraries situated at Springwood, Ka- toomba, Blaxland, Lawson, Blackheath and Wentworth Falls plus a Book Express Service to railway commuters. The services offered by the Library include: • Loans & Reservations, • Inter-Library Loans, • Internet and Computer access, • Photocopying & Fax Service, • Information Enquiries, • Online Databases, • Local Studies & Family History, • Children’s and Youth Services and • A Housebound Service is co-ordinated through the various Neighbourhood Centres. For these and other services please ask Library Staff for details. The Library catalogue can be accessed 24 hours a day from the Blue Mountains City Council Website at www.bmcc.nsw.gov.au Facebook: www.facebook.com/BlueMountainsCityLibrary For all other enquiries please call Library Administration on (02) 4723 5053.

Book Express - Springwood Railway Station Thursday: 10:00am - 5:30pm Monday: 6:15am - 8:00am Friday: 10:00am - 5:30pm Thursday: 6:15am - 8:00am Saturday: 9:00am - 4:00pm

Book Express - Katoomba Railway Station Lawson Library Tuesday: 5:45am - 7:30am Cnr San Jose Ave and Loftus St, Lawson Springwood Library Phone: (02) 4759 1446 104 Macquarie Road, Springwood Monday: 1:00pm - 5:00pm Phone: (02) 4723 5040 Tuesday: 1:00pm - 5:00pm Monday: 10:00am - 5:30pm Wednesday: 10:00am - 5:00pm Tuesday: 10:00am - 5:30pm Thursday: 10:00am - 5:00pm Wednesday:10:00am - 5:30pm Friday: 10:00am - 5:00pm Thursday: 10:00am - 5:30pm Saturday: 9:00am - 12:00pm Friday: 10:00am - 5:30pm Saturday: 9:00am - 4:00pm Wentworth Falls Library School of Arts Building, Great Western Highway, Katoomba Library Wentworth Falls Blue Mountains Cultural Centre, 30 Parke St, Phone: (02) 4757 2095 Katoomba Monday: 1:00pm - 5:00pm Phone: (02) 4780 5750 Tuesday: 10:00am - 2:00pm Monday: 10:00am - 5:00pm Thursday: 1:00pm - 5:00pm Tuesday: 10:00am - 5:00pm Friday: 10:00am - 2:00pm Wednesday:10:00am - 5:00pm Saturday: 9:00am - 12:00pm Thursday: 10:00am - 5:00pm Friday: 10:00am - 5:00pm Blackheath Library Saturday: 10:00am - 4:00pm Community Hall, Great Western Highway, Sunday: 12:00pm - 4:00pm Blackheath Phone: (02) 4787 8893 Blaxland Library Monday: 10:00am - 2:00pm Community Centre, 33 Hope St, Blaxland Tuesday: 1:00pm - 5:00pm Phone: (02) 4739 4284 Thursday: 10:00am - 2:00pm Monday: 10:00am - 5:30pm Friday: 1:00pm - 5:00pm Tuesday: 10:00am - 5:30pm Saturday: 9:00am - 12:00pm Wednesday:10:00am - 5:30pm

Residents Guide Page 35 Blue Mountains City Council Blue Mountains Cultural Centre The Blue Mountains Cultural Centre features the Blue Mountains City Art Gallery and World Heritage Exhibition which is devoted to education about the distinctive environment, history and culture of the Blue Mountains region. The Cultural Centre is co-located with the new Katoomba Library. The Cultural Centre showcases innovative, diverse, distinctive and creative cultural programs for enjoyment by residents of, and visitors to, the Blue Mountains. The Cultural Centre showcases innovative, diverse, distinctive and creative cultural programs for enjoyment by residents of, and visitors to, the Blue Mountains. Built on the highest point in Katoomba with panoramic views of the World Heritage area, the Centre links to the main shopping precinct on Katoomba Street through enhanced pedestrian connections. Being the first publicly owned and managed, purpose designed facility of the arts to be constructed in the Blue Mountains, the Cultural Centre significantly contributes to the improvement of the economic health and cultural vitality of the Blue Mountains and the surrounding regions. Additional features of the Cultural Centre include: • Foyer – providing cultural and visitor information • Theatrette/Seminar room – for seminars, talks and presentations • Multi-purpose Workshop – for educational public programs • Cultural Centre Restaurant / Café – for fine food and outdoor dining • Cultural Centre Shop – providing quality craft and mementos of the Blue Mountains Region • Two public courtyards and a scenic viewing platform – providing opportunities for outdoor events and spectacular views over the Jamison Valley Our Vision We are valued and respected by our community and acknowledged nationally and internationally as the pre-eminent arts and cultural institution of the Blue Mountains region. Our Mission We are committed to promoting our contemporary culture, World Heritage environment and history within an Australian and international context by supporting and showcasing regional artistic and cultural activity. In doing so, we will stimulate the social, economic and cultural vitality of the region. Through delivering a dynamic, educational and inspiring program of activities, we will achieve recognition as a unique, vibrant cultural facility and destination for the local community and visitors.

Hours of Operation Monday – Friday 10am – 5pm Saturday & Sunday – 10am – 4pm Public Holidays – 10am – 2pm (closed Good Friday and Christmas Day) www.bluemountainsculturalcentre.com.au

Residents Guide Page 36 Blue Mountains City Council Neighbourhood Centres Neighbourhood Centres provide a range of Website: www.lmnc.org.au services and information to the local community. Hours: Monday - Thursday, 9:00am - 4.30pm; Services can include: community development, Friday 9:00am - 1:00pm legal advice, taxation help, drop-in lounge, baby change facilities, medical transport, Community Mid Mountains Neighbourhood Centre Visitors Scheme, Kinship Care Support Groups, 9 New Street Lawson Men's Group, Fathers Group, Volunteers Social PO Box 117 Lawson 2783 Support - also various leisure groups and Website: www.mmnc.org.au community visiting services. Email: [email protected] Manager: Mick Barrett Blackheath Area Neighbourhood Centre Phone: (02) 4759 2592 (BANC) Fax: (02) 4759 1056 Gardiner Cres (cnr Great Western Highway), Hours: Monday - Thursday, 9.00am - 4.00pm Blackheath 2785 Fridays - 9am - 1pm Phone: (02) 4787 7770 Fax: (02) 4787 7777 Springwood Neighbourhood Centre Email: [email protected] Cooperative Limited Website: www.banc.org.au 59 Springwood Ave, Springwood, NSW 2777 Hours: Monday - Friday, 9:30am - 4:30pm PO Box 220, Springwood, NSW 2777 also connected with: Phone: (02) 4751 3033 BANC Disability Project Fax: (02) 4751 6957 8 Bundarra Street, Blackheath 2785 Email: [email protected] Phone: (02) 4787 5684 / (02) 4787 8816 Hours: Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri - 9:15am - Fax: (02) 4787 8812 4:30pm; Wed - 9:15am to 12:30pm Email: [email protected] Hours: Monday - Friday, 9:00am - 3:00pm Winmalee Neighbourhood Centre Inc 62 Whitecross Road, Winmalee NSW 2777 Katoomba Neighbourhood Centre Ltd PO Box 4031, Winmalee NSW 2777 6- 10 Station Street, Katoomba NSW 2780 Phone: (02) 4754 4050 Phone: (02) 4782 1117 Fax: (02) 4754 4607 Fax: (02) 4782 6304 Email: [email protected] Website: www.kncinc.org.au Hours: Monday - Friday 8:30am - 4:00pm Hours: Monday - Friday, 9:00am - 12.30pm and 1.30pm - 5:00pm also connected with: Family Support Service 2 Station Street, Katoomba NSW 2780 PO Box 71, Katoomba NSW 2780 Email: [email protected] Hours: Monday, Tuesday 9:30am - 4.00pm; Thursday 10:30am - 4:00pm Phone: (02) 4782 1555 TTY Service: (02) 4782 1671 Fax: (02) 4782 9120

Lower Blue Mountains Neighbourhood Centre 33 Hope Street, Blaxland NSW 2774 Phone: (02) 4739 1164 Fax: (02) 4739 4863 Email: [email protected] Residents Guide Page 37 Blue Mountains City Council PARKS & OVALS Council's Ovals and Parks are available for use by the general public and community groups. Organisations such as Schools, Clubs, Sporting and Church Groups often request either 'one-off' events or seasonal bookings. Certain parks can also be requested for weddings or family functions. • All Council Parks and Ovals are now booked using Oval Booking Forms. • No tentative bookings will be taken over the phone. • Closure for Maintenance: Parks and Ovals are closed twice each year for maintenance, this is printed on the oval booking forms: Autumn maintenance last two weeks in March; Spring main- tenance in September. The previous 4 booking forms for Winter, Summer, Commercial and School bookings has been replaced by 1 form that caters for all groups this is called Oval Booking Form and can be down- loaded from Council’s website www.bmcc.nsw.gov.au/yourcommunity/parksandovals Churchill Place Courts bookings Special conditions apply to Churchill Place Courts bookings. Refer to the application form for de- tails downloaded at right. Contact For further information about the booking of Council Parks, Reserves and Ovals, (02) 4780 5613 or forward an email.

Sporting Ovals Hotline (02) 4780 5617 Check current Sporting Fields status i.e. open or closed. Sports Ovals in the Blue Mountains

Area 1 OVAL WINTER SUMMER AMENITIES MT VICTORIA Browntown Oval Archery Archery Amenities Locked Cricket BLACKHEATH Blackheath Oval Soccer Training Cricket Amenities Locked Rugby League Toilets Open Area 2 OVAL WINTER SUMMER AMENITIES KATOOMBA Melrose Park Rugby League Training Cricket Amenities Locked Bureau Park Cricket Toilets Open Showground Rugby Union 7-a-side Soccer Amenities Locked Rugby League Toilets Open Katoomba Falls Cricket Amenities Locked Toilets Open LEURA Peter Carroll Field Cricket No Toilets Leura Oval Cricket Amenities Locked WENTWORTH FALLS Pitt Park Soccer Cricket Amenities Locked Athletics Athletics Murray Park Cricket No Amenities Area 3 OVAL WINTER SUMMER AMENITIES LAWSON Lawson Oval Soccer Cricket Amenities Locked BMX BMX HAZELBROOK Gloria Park Soccer Training Cricket Amenities Locked Toilets Locked Area 4 OVAL WINTER SUMMER AMENITIES FAULCONBRIDGE Tom Hunter Oval Athletics Cricket Amenities Locked AFL Athletics SPRINGWOOD Lomatia Park Baseball Cricket Amenities Locked Softball WINMALEE Summerhayes Oval Soccer Touch Football Amenities Locked Touch Football Area 5 OVAL WINTER SUMMER AMENITIES WARRIMOO Warrimoo Oval Rugby League Touch Football Amenities Locked BLAXLAND St Johns Oval Soccer Cricket Amenities Locked GLENBROOK Knapsack Park Soccer Amenities Locked Glenbrook Park AFL Cricket Toilets Open Glenbrook Oval Soccer Cricket Amenities Locked AFL Athletics Toilets Open Athletics LAPSTONE Lapstone Oval Rugby Union Cricket Amenities Locked Netball Netball (twilight) Your Community Waste & Recycling in your Community As part of Council’s strategy to reduce its operational impact on a fragile environment, recycling facilities have been established. Waste such as soil, stones, bitumen and concrete rubble, which have been collected from maintenance activities, are being recycled. Since the establishment of recycling facilities the amount of material going to landfill has been drastically reduced. Material previously discarded is now being recycled into reusable products. These products have now been made available to be purchased by the public at the Blaxland Waste Management Facility (see Waste Services for more details). For a full list of different services and a wide range of fact sheets about waste and recycling options please go to www.bmcc.nsw.gov.au/yourcommunity/wastemanagement Blue Mountains City Council provides the following services to households: • Weekly kerbside garbage collection (140 or 240 litre bin) • Weekly kerbside recycling collection (140 litre recycling bin) • Kerbside chipping services • Annual Clean Up service (once a year) • Household Chemical Clean Out (4 times a year at the Waste Management Facilities) Household Resource Recovery Guide 2013 - 2014 The Resource Recovery Guide is sent to all households in the Blue Mountains. It contains information about Council’s resource recovery and waste management services such as: • Council’s household waste and recycling services, including kerbside chipping and clean-ups • Money-saving Eco Bins • Household chemical CleanOut, including dates for the year ahead • E-waste recycling and Eco Choices workshops • Waste Management Facilities, their services and how to use them Download the Resource Recovery Guide from our webpage and keep a copy for your reference throughout the year.

Waste Management Facilities Council Council operates 2 Waste Management Facilities (WMF) in the Blue Mountains. These offer a wide range of services including landfill. Remember to Sort Your Load - Save Your Money! You can contact the Waste Management Facilities, to book in asbestos and special wastes, on the phone numbers below. Open 7 Days per week, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm (Closed Good Friday and Christmas Day) Katoomba WMF Blaxland WMF 48 Woodlands Road Attunga Road (02) 4723 5875 (02) 4723 5875 Missed Garbage collection (02) 4780 5000 (Upper Mountains) (02) 4723 5000 (Lower Mountains).

Residents Guide Page 40 Blue Mountains City Council New Residential Garbage Service (02) 4780 5000 Resource Recovery Centre Council’s Springwood Depot has recycled materials available at cost, such as mulch, clean fill, and concrete. Materials can be ordered and delivered. The Centre also accepts incoming material such as bricks, asphalt and concrete. The Centre is open from 7am – 3pm Monday – Friday (not 12-1pm). All enquiries contact (02) 4723 5061. Mobile Phone Recycling Do you have an old mobile phone you don't use? It can be re-used or recycled. Drop it off at one of the collection points for FREE. Collection boxes are at: Springwood and Katoomba Council offices (Monday to Friday, 8.30 am to 5 pm, 9 am Springwood) Blaxland, Springwood and Katoomba Libraries (Monday to Friday 10 am to 5.30 pm and Saturdays 9 am to 4 pm) Electronic waste Blue Mountains City Council is now in partnership with the Techcollect program, which is a free recycling service for ewaste (electronic waste) and it will run out of the Katoomba Waste Management Facility. This service is available for the general public and also for small businesses. The electrical goods that are included in this free recycling service are televisions, desktop and lap top computers, monitors, mice, keyboards, cables, hard drives, printers and scanners, these items are currently the only items that will be accepted for this service. Badly damaged electrical goods may not be accepted and users will have to pay normal drop off fees. Booked Services for Kerbside Chipping and Household Clean-up Blue Mountains City Council’s booked service replaces the scheduled bi-annual kerbside chipping and annual clean-up services. It allows you to tailor kerbside chipping and clean-up services to your needs. Each household now has two services per year. You request the services you want and when you want them. You can choose from: • Two clean-ups per year (each with a four cubic metre limit) OR • Two kerbside chipping services per year (each with a four cubic metre limit) OR • One clean-up and one kerbside chipping service per year (each with a four cubic metre limit) The main change is that you need to request a service before placing materials in front of your property. This gives you more control over when you want to receive a service, and helps Council better ensure that services are delivered on time. The amount of time that waste materials – garden vegetation and unwanted household items – spend in front of your property is reduced, so it’s better for you, the community and the environment. The volume limit per chipping or clean-up service is four cubic metres. That’s a one metre high pile of materials that is two metres wide and two metres long. Booking is easy. It’s a simple, three step process: 1. Read and agree to the Service Requirements for the service you want and Terms and Residents Guide Page 41 Blue Mountains City Council Conditions 2. Register your address 3. Request your choice of service that you want and, if it’s a clean-up, tell us about items that we can recycle Council will then contact you, normally within 10 working days, to tell you the service date. You can expect the service to be delivered within six weeks of making your booking request. Can the items be re-used? Reducing the waste we send to landfill saves money and resources and reduces our impact on the local environment. Giving usable items to others that need them also helps the community. So, before you choose to throw away, see if anyone else could use it. We have created alist of organisations that will take usable, but unwanted, household items. Check it out before you make a booking. Let’s all reduce the waste we send to landfill Council will recover and recycle as much of your bulky waste as possible. When you book, you can tell us about recyclable items like mattresses, whitegoods and metals, tyres, old televisions and computers so that a separate truck can collect these valuables for recycling. Most of the rest will end up in landfill. Tell us about these items and save the community money and landfill space. www.bmcc.nsw.gov.au/yourcommunity/wastemanagement/bookedservices

How to Use the Booked Services for Kerbside Chipping and Bulky Waste Clean-up Using the booked service is easy: 1. Get to know the Service Requirements and Terms and Conditions for the service you want - you need to accept these to book a service. 2. There are 3 ways to book a service: Online at www.bmccbookaservice.com.au Phone (02)4780 5000 In person at a Council office 3. Council will then contact you, normally within 10 working days, to tell you the service date. The service date will be within six weeks of receiving your booking 4. Place materials in front of your property one day prior to your booked service date Be sure the materials meet the Service Requirements. Where these are not met, you will be asked to remove the materials or incur a clean-up charge.

Service Requirements: kerbside chipping service Note: You must have permission to prune trees more than four metres tall and/or with a branch spread of more than four metres. See ‘Tree Management and Removal’ for more information. What Council will chip • Fresh material less than four weeks old • Branches with a minimum length of one metre (1m) and a maximum length of three metres (3m) • Branches with a maximum diameter, or width, of fifteen centimetres (15cm) • Four cubic metres of branches (4m3) in total What Council will NOT chip • NO Logs • NO Small material – place grass, leaves and twigs in your compost

Residents Guide Page 42 Blue Mountains City Council • NO Root balls, vines, ferns or palm fronds – these can damage the chipper • NO Vegetation from, or in front of, vacant blocks, reserves or non-residential properties • NO Weeds, in particular weeds in flower or seed, Bamboo or Pussy Willow. For help identifying weeds, refer to Council’s website or contact Council. • NO Mass clearing, storm damage or hazard reduction – these works must be conducted by a qualified contractor in accordance withTree Preservation Orders Storage and presentation Materials must be neatly placed in front of your property, clear of paths and driveways on the day before your service date. Keep cut ends of branches together, parallel to the street. Remove chipped materials promptly. Service Requirements: bulky waste clean-up service What Council will collect • General household items: furniture, mattresses, white goods, lawnmowers and other large items • Tyres (maximum 5) • Hard plastics such as children’s toys and garden furnitureE-waste such as computers and televisions • Items that can be safely lifted by two people – you are responsible for breaking larger, heavy items into manageable parts • Four cubic metres (4m3) in total • Note: Tell Council of any mattresses, televisions, computers, tyres, metals, whitegoods and hard plastics that are being disposed so that they can be recycled. What Council will NOT collect • NO Liquid or business waste • NO Waste material from non-residential properties • NO Kerbside recyclables – place these in your yellow-lidded bin or take them to a waste management facility, free of charge • NO Asbestos – strict rules apply to the handling and disposal of asbestos. Contact WorkCover NSW on 131 050 for information on handling asbestos • NO Renovation waste or other building materials such as kitchen cabinets, bathroom vanities , sinks and basins, brick and concrete rubble • NO Hazardous materials such as paints, solvents, acids and alkalis, agricultural and veterinary chemicals, batteries, herbicides and pesticides, motor oils, fuels and other hydrocarbons, household cleaners, smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, gas bottles, poisons, pool chemicals.

For safe and correct disposal, use Council’s Household Chemical Cleanout – contact Council for more information. Storage and presentation Materials must be neatly placed in front of your property, clear of paths and driveways on the day before your service date. Small or loose items MUST be bagged or bundled to prevent littering and hazards.

Full terms and conditions are available at www.bmcc.nsw.gov.au/yourcommunity/wastemanagement/bookedservices/termsconditions

Residents Guide Page 43 Blue Mountains City Council Your Community Environment Initiatives & Services

Bushcare Do you like being in bushland? Meeting interesting people? Helping the local environment? Learning about the Blue Mountains? Then Bushcare is for you! Aim: "To promote ecologically sound management of bushland within the City of Blue Mountains by fostering a sense of community responsibility for the natural environment and by supporting the community to enable program objectives to be met.” (Bushcare Policy: BMCC, 1998)

A Brief History of Bushcare in the Blue Mountains The Bushcare Program has its origins in the Blue Mountains in the activities of early Bushcare groups such as Friends of Katoomba Falls Creek Valley, Fairy Dell Restoration Committee, Minnehaha Falls Landcare Group, Glenbrook Lagoon Society and Pope’s Glen Bushcare Group. These groups commenced activities in late 1989 through to 1991. In response to these activities, Council in 1992 decided to fund a position to coordinate the activities of these groups. Since that time the number of groups and participants has been steadily increasing.

What do Bushcare Groups Do? A Bushcare Group will go out into their patch of bush each month, assess the existing vegetation, and try to strengthen and encourage it to expand. They do this by a process called Bush Regeneration, which involves the removal of exotic weeds. This allows native plants to germinate and flourish. They work as a team, expanding into new areas, but also consolidating achievements already gained. This way a Bushcare Group makes net wins against the weeds, and with persistence can improve the natural and aesthetic values of their reserves. Other activities include stormwater control works, erosion control works, track maintenance and improvement, seed collection, plant propagation, public education, and other bushland management issues.

The Role of Council Since Council employed it's first Bushcare Officer in 1992, bushcare groups and participants in the program have steadily increased. Council has fostered this growth by allocating additional resources to provide more Bushcare Officers and strong operational budgets. Qualified Council officers provide training in bush regeneration techniques and safety. Tools and other equipment are also provided for Bushcare groups working on Council's land.

The Social Side of Bushcare Members of Popes Glen Bushcare Group, explained the many great benefits of being involved in Bushcare. It is a great way to meet people in your local area. “It’s a great feeling to be working with the local community to restore out bushland Environment. i have met a number of very interesting like-minded people by working with Bushcare”.

When Alan asked what he has learnt from his involvement in Bushcare, he responded "Patience! and also learning all the time about the plants and animals and how ecosystems work". Members agree that it’s great to get outside in the fresh air, get a bit of exercise and help save our unique Australian bush.

Where are they? When do they work? Bushcare groups are working almost every weekend and some days during the week. They generally Residents Guide Page 44 Blue Mountains City Council work for one morning or afternoon a month. You will be supervised and trained by a qualified Council Bushcare Officer. Contact For more information contact Council's Bushcare Section on (02) 4780 5528.

Weeds Weed Identification Information on the identification and control of weeds can be found at www.weedsbluemountains. org.au or you can collect your free copy of Weeds of Blue Mountains Bushland booklet at any Library or Council Office.

This web site is for everyone who lives in and loves the Blue Mountains. You can: • learn about the value and importance of our Blue Mountains bushland • find out about the effect our lifestyle is having on our beautiful natural areas • learn how weeds spread • learn how weeds can cause the destruction of our native flora and fauna.

The Blue Mountains City Council web site, and the free booklet on which it is based, will help you identify 35 common plants that have spread from our parks and gardens into our bushland, and it will enable you to understand the serious impact they are having on our fragile ecosystems. The information found on the web site and in the booklet will encourage you to remove these bush invaders from your garden and it will show you how to. It suggests replacement plants which are beautiful, functional and bush-friendly. You will find out how to make your garden a haven for our wildlife. The web site and booklet lists for you some simple steps to take at home to reduce the damage being done, and it encourages you to join other Blue Mountains residents in caring for our unique bushland. Advisory Service for Weeds on your Property This free service provides advice and training on safe and effective weed control methods, weed control plans and more. Please contact the Weed Education Officer on (02) 47 80 5612. Report Weeds in your Neighbourhood To report noxious weeds on private or public land please call the Weed Management Coordinator on (02) 4780 5343.

Residents Guide Page 45 Blue Mountains City Council Your Community Cultural & Art Services

Artist Register Blue Mountains City Council co-ordinates an Artist Register on our website. This register is a free service and an important resource for the art community, Council and the general public. This register reflects the growing range and diversity of talent in the Blue Mountains. Writers, performers, visual artists, and all creative professionals are encouraged to use this free service to promote their work to a wider audience. Artists can obtain an application form online. Blue Mountains Cultural Directory – Arts Blue Mountains Blue Mountains City Council supports our local directory of artists and organisations produced by Carolynne Skinner of OZ Arts. These directories are available at all local libraries and Business and Information Centres in the Blue Mountains. They provide contact details for over three hundred artists and arts workers in the local area. Cultural Organisations Register The Cultural Organisations Register located on Council’s website lists organisations, groups, events, galleries, museums and venues. This register is an essential service providing the local and wider community with access to valuable information about our city’s arts and cultural organisations and groups in the Blue Mountains area. Organisations can obtain an application form online. Subscribe to the Cultural Events E-Notices Blue Mountains City Council administers an innovative service to keep local residents in the Mountains aware of the many unique exciting cultural events happening in your City.

For information on the above services please (02) 4780 5000 or visit Web: www.bmcc.nsw.gov.au/councilservices/culturalservices Email: [email protected] Facebook: www.facebook.com/cityofthearts

Residents Guide Page 46 Blue Mountains City Council Your Community Tourism

Visitor Information Centres As a new resident please drop into one of our Visitor Information Centres and let our friendly, trained staff share with you some of the great things to see and do around your new home. Maps and guides on bushwalking are essential if you plan to take advantage of the clean fresh air and do some bushwalking. You will find that living in a breathtakingly beautiful World Heritage Region you will have many visiting friends and relatives and our staff can assist you with ideas on where to take them and what to do. The Region is known for its variety of local attractions, lookouts, walks, galleries, antique stores and great cafes and restaurants. Take the worry out of finding accommodation for the relatives and let our staff book accommodation for you if that is necessary. Moving from interstate or overseas you may also like to take advantage of sending some Blue Mountains souvenirs or calendars ‘back home’ at Christmas and both Centres have a great selection of products for you to consider. The 26 towns and villages of the Mountains provide a range of fun community events held throughout the year, so don’t miss out, plan ahead and ask for a copy of the Annual Events Calendar at the Visitor Information Centre. Operated by Council, there are two Visitor Information Centres - One at the Gateway to the Mountains in Glenbrook and the other at Echo Point, Katoomba, site of the Three Sisters and magnificent views over the World Heritage National Park. Blue Mountains Lithgow Oberon Tourism works closely with the local tourism industry in promoting and marketing the destination to both Domestic and International Visitors so help your friends and relatives plan their visit through our website http://www.bluemountainscitytourism.com.au/

Blue Mountains Visitor Information Centre - Glenbrook Great Western Highway - Glenbrook Ph: 1300 653 408

Blue Mountains Visitor Information Centre – Echo Point, Katoomba Echo Point Road Ph: 1300 653 408 How do I obtain an Echo Point parking voucher? Resident Parking Vouchers can be obtained from Council Offices or by on (02) 4780 5482 and follow the prompts.

Where can I get school assignment information on local government? A School Education information is available on the Blue Mountains City Council website. However, if you are unsuccessful you can on (02) 4780 5000, with a clear idea of the information you require. Council staff will either direct you to a specific area of the website and / or arrange an appointment if necessary.

Residents Guide Page 47 Blue Mountains City Council Residents Guide Your Household

Your Household • Companion Animals • Waste & Recycling in your household • Landuse & Development • Tree Removal Your Household Companion Animals

Look after your pet Attach an ID tag to your pet's collar, stating the pet's name and owner's contact phone number. Keep your pet off the streets and your neighbour's property. Provide your pet with food, water, shelter, veterinary care, and most of all, time and companionship. It is advisable to lock your cat up at night to prevent your cat from attacking other animals, and contracting diseases. Studies have revealed cats that are kept in at night live longer. For information on keeping your cat safe and sound, download the 'Fact Sheet: Responsible Cat Owners' at right. Control Your Pet Don't let your pet bother your neighbours by barking or being a nuisance. Obedience training can correct many behaviour problems. To find a dog training club, use the community database search. For information on dealing with barking dogs, visit the Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water website. Please note that the Blue Mountains has a leash law which requires that dogs be on-leash when off the owner's premises. In accordance with the Companion Animals Act 1998 and the Local Government Area Act 1993, Council has a number of Dog Off Leash Exercise Areas. Clean up after your pet Blue Mountains also has a "Scoop Policy" which requires pet owners to clean up and dispose of animal waste. Desex your pet If your female cat or dog is on heat, do not allow her outside unsupervised. Better yet have your pet desexed. This will eliminate unwanted offspring. For further information email Council or telephone (02) 4780 5000. Companion Animals Taskforce in 2012 The Minister for Local Government and the Minister for Primary Industries established the Companion Animals Taskforce in 2012 to provide the State Government advice on key companion animal issues. The Taskforce has now submitted two Reports the Government providing 38 recommendations for their consideration. The reports are: • NSW Companion Animals Taskforce Report • NSW Companion Animals Taskforce Report on the Management of Dangerous Dogs The recommendations have implications for the management of cats and dogs in NSW, and accordingly Councils, interested stakeholder groups and the community are being encouraged to review and comment on the recommendations prior to any final decisions being made . The Reports are available on the Division of Local Government’s website. Companion Animals Management Plan for 2011-2014 The development of the Companion Animals Management Plan reflects, in part, the fact that Council's role in animal management, which once was simply administrative and regulatory, has changed in

Residents Guide Page 50 Blue Mountains City Council keeping with community attitudes and expectations towards a more holistic approach to animal management. Download at right. Local Orders Policy The Policy is designed to give improved guidance and added transparency to the orders regime. The document outlines the criteria considered before issuing an Order. The policy is important in establishing the responsibilities of all stakeholders, protecting the health, safety of people, the amenity of the neighbourhood at a local level whilst at the same time, in a broader sense, the environmental protection of the City's unique bushland setting within a World Heritage area. Download at right. RSPCA NSW Community Support Programs For information on the RSCPA community support programs see RSPCA NSW WEBSITE Animal Registration Microchip Your Pet The Companion Animals Act 1998 makes it compulsory to microchip all puppies and kittens by 12 weeks of age and registered by 6 months of age. Any dogs or cats who change owners need to be microchipped and registered. Microchipped animals are registered on the NSW Companion Animals Register. Owner information needs to be kept up to date. Contact Council if you need to change any details. How Much Does Registration Cost? Lifetime registration on the NSW Companion Animals Register is available from Blue Mountains City Council. This is a one off payment and the animal is registered for life, anywhere in New South Wales. New scheduled fees commencing 1 January 2014:- $182 for undesexed dog or cat $49 for a dog or cat owned by a registered breeder that is kept for breeding purposes $49 for a desexed dog or cat $19 for a desexed dog or cat owned by a pensioner Microchip Number, Address, phone and contact details need to be provided in writing to the local Council. Registration or Change of Ownership / Address forms can be downloaded from the Department of Local Government website. Why Should I Register My Companion Animal? • Owners of pets wearing identification are notified when their pet is being held at an Animal Care Facility. • Often pets with registration are redeemed to their owners by Animal Control Officers in the field instead of being detained at the Animal Care Facility. • It's the law! For more information email Council or phone (02) 4780 5000.

Residents Guide Page 51 Blue Mountains City Council Dog Off Leash Areas In accordance with the Companion Animals Act 1998 and the Local Government Area Act 1993, Council has a number of Dog Off Leash Exercise Areas. Locations and approved hours of use are as follows:

Whitley Park, Blackheath Pitt Park (lower oval), Wentworth Falls Off Leash Exercise Area: Corner Wentworth and Off Leash Area: Inside perimeter of oval Prince George Streets Days: Monday to Friday Sunrise until 10:00am Days: Monday to Sunday Weekends after 5:00pm Times: 24 hours Lawson Former Golf Course Old Airstrip, Blackheath Off Leash Exercise Area: Please refer to map Off Leash Exercise Area: Inside perimeter of runway download on right Days: Monday to Sunday Days: Everyday with no time restriction Times: 24 hours Bulls Camp, Woodford Medlow Park Off Leash Exercise Area: Open grassed area Off Leash Exercise Area, shared zone in open Days: Monday to Sunday parkland: Please refer to map download on right Times: 24 hours Days: Monday to Sunday Times: During daylight hours Summerhayes Park, Winmalee Off Leash Exercise Area: Fenced area corner of Bureau Park, Katoomba Bunnal Avenue and Hawkesbury Road Off Leash Exercise Area: Open grassed area Days: Monday to Sunday Days: Monday to Friday Sunrise until 10:00am Times: 24 hours then after 4:00pm Sunday All day except when a competition cricket Sun Valley Reserve match is being played Off Leash Exercise Area: Please refer to map download on right Katoomba Falls Reserve (lower oval) Days: Monday to Sunday except when horses are Off Leash Area: Inside perimeter of oval on the reserve or booked games in play Days: Monday to Friday Sunrise to 10:00am Weekends after 5:00pm except when a competition Whitton Park, Glenbrook cricket match is being played Off Leash Exercise Area: Please refer to map download on right Melrose Park, Katoomba Days: Monday to Sunday Off Leash Exercise Area: Inside perimeter of oval Times: 24 hours Days: Monday to Friday Times: Sunrise to 4:00pm Lennox Bridge, Glenbrook Off Leash Exercise Area: Closed road loop south of Leura Oval, Leura Lennox Bridge Off Leash Exercise Area: Inside perimeter of oval Days: Monday to Sunday Days: Monday to Sunday Times: 24 hours Times: Sunrise to 10:00am then after 4:00pm

Each of the Dog Off Leash Exercise Areas have signs which outline the conditions of use and include a map of the area. The boundaries of the map are identified by green tipped markers and dog litter bins are provided at each site.

For further information on Council's Dog Off Leash Exercise Areas, contact the Council on (02) 4780 5000.

Residents Guide Page 52 Blue Mountains City Council Your Household Waste & Recycling in your Household

As part of Council’s strategy to reduce its operational impact on a fragile environment, recycling facilities have been established. Waste such as soil, stones, bitumen and concrete rubble, which have been collected from maintenance activities, are being recycled. Since the establishment of recycling facilities the amount of material going to landfill has been drastically reduced. Material previously discarded is now being recycled into reusable products. These products have now been made available to be purchased by the public at the Blaxland Waste Management Facility (see Waste Services for more details). Household Services Blue Mountains City Council provides the following services to households: • Weekly kerbside garbage collection (140 or 240 litre bin) • Weekly kerbside recycling collection (140 litre recycling bin) • Kerbside chipping services • Booked Waste Services • Household Chemical Clean Out (4 times a year at the Waste Management Facilities) Household Resource Recovery Guide 2013 - 2014 The Resource Recovery Guide is sent to all households in the Blue Mountains. It contains information about Council’s resource recovery and waste management services such as: • Council’s household waste and recycling services, including kerbside chipping and clean-ups • Money-saving Eco Bins • Household chemical CleanOut, including dates for the year ahead • E-waste recycling and Eco Choices workshops • Waste Management Facilities, their services and how to use them Download the Resource Recovery Guide at right and keep a copy for your reference throughout the year. Household Chemical CleanOut Hazardous waste should not be disposed of in your household bin, down the drain or into the soil. Please use the free chemical clean out to safely dispose of this type of waste. This waste includes: • Liquid paint and paint related products • Smoke detectors • Fire extinguishers • Poisons • Solvents • Compact fluorescent light globes • Pesticides and herbicides • Pool Chemicals • Household cleaners • Gas bottles • Batteries • Acids and alkalis • Motor oils, fuels and liquids • Hobby chemicals

Blaxland Waste Management Facility: • 7 - 10 February 2014 • 22 March 2014 Katoomba Waste Management Facility: • 2 - 5 May 2014 Residents Guide Page 53 Blue Mountains City Council Clean Out times are strictly 9:00am to 4:30pm Kerbside chipping and clean-up service Your kerbside chipping and clean-up services changed on 1 July 2013. You now need to book with Council before placing materials in front of your house.

The new booked service allows you to tailor the kerbside chipping and clean-up services to meet your needs. Every household can have two services per year and you choose which service you want and when you want it from either: • Two clean-ups per year (four cubic metre limit per collection) OR • Two kerbside chipping services per year (four cubic metre limit per service) OR • One clean-up and one kerbside chipping service per year (each with a four cubic metre limit).

The new service will be flexible, timely, environmentally friendly and efficient.

Household Kerbside Recycling Service Recycling Hotline: 1300 769 746 Blue Mountains City Council provides a weekly kerbside household recycling collection service with a 140 litre recycling bin (yellow lid). This is a commingled service with everything mixed in the bin together. Items that can be recycled in the household recycling bin are: • Cardboard, paper, magazines, newspapers, office paper and junk mail • Glass bottles and jars (no broken glass please) • Steel and aluminium cans • Empty aerosols • Rigid plastic from the kitchen, bathroom and laundry. Please no plastic bags, green waste or broken glass. JJ Richards and Sons, an Australian, family owned business, were awarded the contract to collect kerbside recycling until June 2015.

Getting the most out of your recycling bin To maximise space in your recycling bin make sure you: • Break up any boxes • Compact/crush any cans, plastic bottles, milk and juice cartons • Place smaller jars/cans/tins/bottles in the larger tins and jars. In windy weather you can place a brick on top of the lid to help prevent the lid being blown open. In case your bin is unavoidably blown over, consider the order your recyclables are placed in your bin. If possible, create layers with papers at the bottom and heavier items like glass bottles on top of them. Layering your recycling also helps to prevents glass being broken with plastics and paper to cushion these items. For more information check your Resource Recovery Guide (2009/10 Guides delivered to your letterbox in the first week of June 2009).Alternatively, download the Guide at right. Why was this service chosen? Prior to introducing the new service, Council sought input from residents via a variety of means such as a direct mail out to 3,000 residents and an open invitation to comment on proposals in the BM Gazette and on Council's website. Council researched what other councils were doing. Council also conducted 2 Residents Guide Page 54 Blue Mountains City Council x six-week audits of waste and recycling participation and volumes during winter and summer 2006/07. Analysis of all of this information indicated: • a clear preference for a mobile bin-based service; • a majority of respondents (especially older residents) wanted a 140 litre mobile bin; and • the average household could cope with available volume equal to a 240 litre bin collected fortnightly. A range of service options was tendered and it became clear that the most advantageous solution for the Blue Mountains was a weekly service based on a 140 litre mobile bin. Why the weekly 140L over fortnightly 240L? The weekly 140L offers a greater overall volume (280L a fortnight) and the established weekly habit can continue. In short, we've chosen the service style that makes it easiest to recycle: • Weekly • Wheelie bin • All in together • All rigid plastics from the kitchen, bathroom and laundry.

Copies of the Resource Recovery Guide are available at Council offices or to download from Council’s website at www.bmcc.nsw.gov.au/yourcommunity/wastemanagement/recyclingservice/

For further information please visit Council’s Website at www.bmcc.nsw.gov.au, (02) 4723 5061 or fax 02 4723 5079.

Residents Guide Page 55 Blue Mountains City Council Your Household Landuse & Development

What can I build without approval? Development Control Plan (DCP) 33 - Exempt and Complying Development lists typical things that can be built without Council approval, like small garden sheds and aviaries, small awnings and unroofed verandas.

When can I speak to a Building Surveyor? A "duty" Building Surveyor is available from 8:30am to 10:00am, Monday to Friday by phone or in person at Katoomba Business and Information Centre, appointments are also available. Please ring (02) 4780 5000.

When can I speak to a Town Planner? A "duty" Town Planner is available from 8:30am to 10:00am, Monday to Friday by phone or in person. Appointments are also available at the Katoomba office. Please on (02) 4780 5000.

What can I do with my land? There is a wealth of information on this website including interactive maps, electronic requests for service and development guidelines, however if you can't find what you need please ring (02) 4780 5000 for general housing / commercial / industrial / subdivision issues. Your Household Tree Removal

Can I cut down / lop a tree? Council's Tree Preservation Order requires that in most circumstances a formal application be made to remove or lop a tree. Please contact Council Offices in person, or on (02) 4780 5000.

Can I cut down a dead tree? Council's Tree Preservation Order requires that in most circumstances a formal application be made to remove or lop a tree. Please contact Council Offices in person or on (02) 4780 5000.

Residents Guide Page 56 Blue Mountains City Council Version: 9 April 2015

Residents Guide Blue Mountains City Council