We acknowledge the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung people as Traditional Owners and custodians of the land and waters we now call Darebin. We affirm that Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung people have lived on this land for millennia, practising their customs and ceremonies of celebration, initiation and renewal. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present. We pay respect to all other Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in Darebin. |
We acknowledge the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung people as Traditional Owners and custodians of the land and waters we now call Darebin. We affirm that Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung people have lived on this land for millennia, practising their customs and ceremonies of celebration, initiation and renewal. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present. We pay respect to all other Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in Darebin. |
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Welcome to Sustainable Darebin – March 2025 |
Welcome to Sustainable Darebin – March 2025 |
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Safely recycling batteries Batteries in toys, phones, and other electronic items can catch fire when they’re not disposed of correctly. Truck fires caused by batteries and electronics can cause disruption to our waste collection services, block roads for hours and cause thousands of dollars worth of damage – just from one person putting their batteries in their household bins. As part of our summer recycling campaign, we’re supporting residents to keep batteries out of household bins, and take them to a local recycling drop off instead. Check out and share our fun new video or visit www.darebin.vic.gov.au/e-waste to find out where you can safely recycle batteries. |
Safely recycling batteries Batteries in toys, phones, and other electronic items can catch fire when they’re not disposed of correctly. Truck fires caused by batteries and electronics can cause disruption to our waste collection services, block roads for hours and cause thousands of dollars worth of damage – just from one person putting their batteries in their household bins. As part of our summer recycling campaign, we’re supporting residents to keep batteries out of household bins, and take them to a local recycling drop off instead. Check out and share our fun new video or visit www.darebin.vic.gov.au/e-waste to find out where you can safely recycle batteries. |
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Did you feel the heat this summer? Stay cool in summer and warm in winter with energy-efficient split system heating & cooling — now available through Darebin’s Solar Saver program! Split systems are an energy-efficient way to keep your home comfortable year-round.
Why choose our new energy-efficient products? - Lower energy bills by switching from gas to electric
- Maximise the benefits of rooftop solar if you have it
- Access eligible government rebates to reduce upfront costs
- Feel confident in quality products, warranties and competitive pricing from a trusted installer
Registrations close midnight Thursday 10 April. Find out more and register your interest at www.darebin.vic.gov.au/solar. Or call Darebin Customer Service Desk 03 8470 8888 and ask for the Solar Saver team or email us at solar@darebin.vic.gov.au. |
Did you feel the heat this summer? Stay cool in summer and warm in winter with energy-efficient split system heating & cooling — now available through Darebin’s Solar Saver program! Split systems are an energy-efficient way to keep your home comfortable year-round.
Why choose our new energy-efficient products? - Lower energy bills by switching from gas to electric
- Maximise the benefits of rooftop solar if you have it
- Access eligible government rebates to reduce upfront costs
- Feel confident in quality products, warranties and competitive pricing from a trusted installer
Registrations close midnight Thursday 10 April. Find out more and register your interest at www.darebin.vic.gov.au/solar. Or call Darebin Customer Service Desk 03 8470 8888 and ask for the Solar Saver team or email us at solar@darebin.vic.gov.au. |
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Welcome to our newest newsletter section, brought to you by NUCA — Neighbours United for Climate Action. NUCA's Hot Planet Matchmaking Service is here to help you to find your perfect match for local climate action in Melbourne's inner north. Check out this month's featured group and visit the Hot Planet Matchmaking Service website to complete the quiz, explore matchmaking profiles and find your soulmate most compatible local climate action group. The Hot Planet Matchmaking Service was initiated with a Darebin Community Grant. |
Welcome to our newest newsletter section, brought to you by NUCA — Neighbours United for Climate Action. NUCA's Hot Planet Matchmaking Service is here to help you to find your perfect match for local climate action in Melbourne's inner north. Check out this month's featured group and visit the Hot Planet Matchmaking Service website to complete the quiz, explore matchmaking profiles and find your soulmate most compatible local climate action group. The Hot Planet Matchmaking Service was initiated with a Darebin Community Grant. |
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Introducing NUCA: Neighbours United for Climate Action Who are we?
NUCA is a grassroots climate action community group based in Melbourne’s northern suburbs. We’re all about connection and action for the climate. The dates we’d love to take you on…
Join or set up a NUCA team and take action on your chosen issue (think weeding, regen, political advocacy, whatever tickles your fancy) in the way that suits you (at the local dog park, at the pub, in your parents’ group).
We’ll support and amplify your efforts; and/or connect you with campaigns and groups already tackling your chosen issue so that you can support their efforts. Every action — small to large — helps grow the movement!
We’re interested in someone who…
…is hot for climate action! We love people who have a burning passion, and are fun and optimistic. We love each other as much as we love taking climate action.
No special skills or experience needed — only enthusiasm and whatever time you can bring.
We meet up…
Irregularly, but stay in touch consistently on WhatsApp.
Find us…. Through the Hot Planet Matchmaking Service — a website for lovers…of the natural world, sustainability, climate justice and a healthy planet. Find your perfect match! |
Introducing NUCA: Neighbours United for Climate Action Who are we?
NUCA is a grassroots climate action community group based in Melbourne’s northern suburbs. We’re all about connection and action for the climate. The dates we’d love to take you on…
Join or set up a NUCA team and take action on your chosen issue (think weeding, regen, political advocacy, whatever tickles your fancy) in the way that suits you (at the local dog park, at the pub, in your parents’ group).
We’ll support and amplify your efforts; and/or connect you with campaigns and groups already tackling your chosen issue so that you can support their efforts. Every action — small to large — helps grow the movement!
We’re interested in someone who…
…is hot for climate action! We love people who have a burning passion, and are fun and optimistic. We love each other as much as we love taking climate action.
No special skills or experience needed — only enthusiasm and whatever time you can bring.
We meet up…
Irregularly, but stay in touch consistently on WhatsApp.
Find us…. Through the Hot Planet Matchmaking Service — a website for lovers…of the natural world, sustainability, climate justice and a healthy planet. Find your perfect match! |
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Urban Cycling Confidence workshop Sunday 16 March OR Sunday 27 April, 10am–3pm La Trobe University Tennis Courts, Bundoora
Urban Cycling Confidence is fun, friendly and social. You’ll meet other local bike riders and learn the practical skills you need to start riding on the road safely and with confidence. This interactive workshop covers bike control skills and road rules, and allows time to practice in a traffic-free area and on the road. You'll leave with the confidence to start riding your bike to work, uni or your local shops.
Find out more and book your place. This session is run in partnership with Banyule City Council. |
Urban Cycling Confidence workshop Sunday 16 March OR Sunday 27 April, 10am–3pm La Trobe University Tennis Courts, Bundoora
Urban Cycling Confidence is fun, friendly and social. You’ll meet other local bike riders and learn the practical skills you need to start riding on the road safely and with confidence. This interactive workshop covers bike control skills and road rules, and allows time to practice in a traffic-free area and on the road. You'll leave with the confidence to start riding your bike to work, uni or your local shops.
Find out more and book your place. This session is run in partnership with Banyule City Council. |
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Basic Bike Maintenance workshop Sunday 30 March 1–4pm Reservoir Leisure Centre
Our Basic Bike Maintenance workshops are fun, friendly and social! Bring your own bike along to learn practical skills to keep your bike in top condition – you’ll leave ready to fix a puncture, take care of your chain and much more.
A recent participant, Rachael, found the workshop empowering. "The instructor was really patient and explained all things bike 101 with hands on practice for us. It's really empowering to know how easy it is to rescue myself from a flat tyre now! I'll be able to keep my bike running smoothly and make adjustments that will keep me safer on the road and save me time and money."
She also put her new skills into practice afterwards to tune-up a second-hand bike for her son.
Find out more and book your place. |
Basic Bike Maintenance workshop Sunday 30 March 1–4pm Reservoir Leisure Centre
Our Basic Bike Maintenance workshops are fun, friendly and social! Bring your own bike along to learn practical skills to keep your bike in top condition – you’ll leave ready to fix a puncture, take care of your chain and much more.
A recent participant, Rachael, found the workshop empowering. "The instructor was really patient and explained all things bike 101 with hands on practice for us. It's really empowering to know how easy it is to rescue myself from a flat tyre now! I'll be able to keep my bike running smoothly and make adjustments that will keep me safer on the road and save me time and money."
She also put her new skills into practice afterwards to tune-up a second-hand bike for her son.
Find out more and book your place. |
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Darebin Volunteer Expo 2025 Saturday 29 March, 10am–1pm Enter via the Darebin Intercultural Centre (350 High Street, Preston)
After a successful volunteer expo in 2024, Darebin is back hosting its free annual Volunteer Expo! The event will showcase over 20 local volunteer-involving organisations and community groups. From environment and conservation, to education, aged care, disability and more, hear about how you can get involved in your local community. A large part of Darebin's vibrancy comes from its diverse community of volunteers. We are committed to supporting volunteers and volunteer leaders. The expo aims to promote a wide range of volunteering opportunities, encourage volunteering and foster an opportunity for community to engage with one another. There is a reflection room available in the Darebin Intercultural Centre. If you have any access requirements to support your attendance at the expo, please get in touch with us before the event at volunteering@darebin.vic.gov.au or 03 8470 8715. This is a free event. Register before the event or walk in on the day |
Darebin Volunteer Expo 2025 Saturday 29 March, 10am–1pm Enter via the Darebin Intercultural Centre (350 High Street, Preston)
After a successful volunteer expo in 2024, Darebin is back hosting its free annual Volunteer Expo! The event will showcase over 20 local volunteer-involving organisations and community groups. From environment and conservation, to education, aged care, disability and more, hear about how you can get involved in your local community. A large part of Darebin's vibrancy comes from its diverse community of volunteers. We are committed to supporting volunteers and volunteer leaders. The expo aims to promote a wide range of volunteering opportunities, encourage volunteering and foster an opportunity for community to engage with one another. There is a reflection room available in the Darebin Intercultural Centre. If you have any access requirements to support your attendance at the expo, please get in touch with us before the event at volunteering@darebin.vic.gov.au or 03 8470 8715. This is a free event. Register before the event or walk in on the day |
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Help DIVRS Fill Fresh Food Parcels for 200 Households This Week! Sunday 16 March, 9am–1pm 2 Wingrove Street Alphington This week, DIVRS is kicking off a new project to help fill 200 fresh food parcels for local households. We will be at the Alphington Farmer’s Market talking about the project and other ways we support Darebin families experiencing food insecurity with fresh, healthy and culturally appropriate food. We need your help! It’s simple: - Buy fresh food from any stallholder
- Leave it in a DIVRS crate
- DIVRS will pack and share this week
DIVRS is a volunteer powered community organisation that provides free services, programs and information for people who live, study and volunteer in Darebin. |
Help DIVRS Fill Fresh Food Parcels for 200 Households This Week! Sunday 16 March, 9am–1pm 2 Wingrove Street Alphington This week, DIVRS is kicking off a new project to help fill 200 fresh food parcels for local households. We will be at the Alphington Farmer’s Market talking about the project and other ways we support Darebin families experiencing food insecurity with fresh, healthy and culturally appropriate food. We need your help! It’s simple: - Buy fresh food from any stallholder
- Leave it in a DIVRS crate
- DIVRS will pack and share this week
DIVRS is a volunteer powered community organisation that provides free services, programs and information for people who live, study and volunteer in Darebin. |
Helping local businesses Go Electric Jason Lohrey from Arcitecta understands data, so when he was refurbishing a historic bakery to create their headquarters he knew energy efficiency made sense. “Basically you’re looking to reduce your total energy consumption footprint, and if you do that you can reduce the size of the solar system that you need. That’s a no-brainer in my view,” Jason said. Using heat pumps for the heating and cooling systems helps achieve this goal, typically using four or five times less energy than conventional electric or gas heating. You can watch a short video about Arcitecta online.
The Darebin Energy$mart program can help local businesses to Go Electric, with links to reputable installers, assistance with state and federal rebates and up to $1,000 in additional subsidies.
Visit our website for more information or fill in our Sustainable Business Registration form. |
Helping local businesses Go Electric Jason Lohrey from Arcitecta understands data, so when he was refurbishing a historic bakery to create their headquarters he knew energy efficiency made sense. “Basically you’re looking to reduce your total energy consumption footprint, and if you do that you can reduce the size of the solar system that you need. That’s a no-brainer in my view,” Jason said. Using heat pumps for the heating and cooling systems helps achieve this goal, typically using four or five times less energy than conventional electric or gas heating. You can watch a short video about Arcitecta online.
The Darebin Energy$mart program can help local businesses to Go Electric, with links to reputable installers, assistance with state and federal rebates and up to $1,000 in additional subsidies.
Visit our website for more information or fill in our Sustainable Business Registration form. |
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Community grant news It’s a great time to be thinking about grants to support the work of your climate, environment or sustainability community group in 2025. Here’s some current and upcoming opportunities. Older and Active Grant Program
Open 20 January 2025 and close 24 March 2025. Community Grants Program, Venue Hire Support and Youth Project Grants
Open 1 April 2025 and close 31 May 2025.
And, introducing the External Grant Opportunities portal. Easy access to a central repository of all the available grants from a wide range of sources. A search function within the portal will help you track down relevant opportunities.
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Community grant news It’s a great time to be thinking about grants to support the work of your climate, environment or sustainability community group in 2025. Here’s some current and upcoming opportunities. Older and Active Grant Program
Open 20 January 2025 and close 24 March 2025. Community Grants Program, Venue Hire Support and Youth Project Grants
Open 1 April 2025 and close 31 May 2025.
And, introducing the External Grant Opportunities portal. Easy access to a central repository of all the available grants from a wide range of sources. A search function within the portal will help you track down relevant opportunities.
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Gardening talk: How to Tackle Queensland Fruit Fly and Gall Wasp Wednesday 26 March, 6.30–7.30pm Northcote Library Join local gardening expert, Kaye from Blue Bee Design, for tips on protecting your garden from Queensland fruit fly and gall wasp. Queensland fruit fly attacks many of our favourite backyard fruits and vegetables and citrus gall wasp is endemic across Melbourne causing widespread damage to citrus. This talk will cover the life cycles of these serious pests, control management techniques and seasonal prevention tips. Find out more and book your place. |
Gardening talk: How to Tackle Queensland Fruit Fly and Gall Wasp Wednesday 26 March, 6.30–7.30pm Northcote Library Join local gardening expert, Kaye from Blue Bee Design, for tips on protecting your garden from Queensland fruit fly and gall wasp. Queensland fruit fly attacks many of our favourite backyard fruits and vegetables and citrus gall wasp is endemic across Melbourne causing widespread damage to citrus. This talk will cover the life cycles of these serious pests, control management techniques and seasonal prevention tips. Find out more and book your place. |
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Queensland Fruit Fly Management Queensland Fruit Fly (QFF) has been detected in Darebin this summer, posing a threat to home gardens and local fruit trees. If you find QFF-infested fruit, don’t just toss it in your bin or compost — this could allow the larvae to survive and re-emerge in spring even stronger! How to dispose of QFF-infested fruit safely: - Bag & Solarise: Seal fruit in a sturdy plastic bag and leave it in the sun for at least a week to kill larvae.
- Freeze It: Place fruit in the freezer for at least 48 hours before disposal.
- Boil It: Cook fruit thoroughly to destroy eggs and larvae.
Once treated, dispose of the fruit in your general waste bin — not your compost! Report sightings to help us monitor outbreaks. Learn more at www.darebin.vic.gov.au/queenslandfruitfly. |
Queensland Fruit Fly Management Queensland Fruit Fly (QFF) has been detected in Darebin this summer, posing a threat to home gardens and local fruit trees. If you find QFF-infested fruit, don’t just toss it in your bin or compost — this could allow the larvae to survive and re-emerge in spring even stronger! How to dispose of QFF-infested fruit safely: - Bag & Solarise: Seal fruit in a sturdy plastic bag and leave it in the sun for at least a week to kill larvae.
- Freeze It: Place fruit in the freezer for at least 48 hours before disposal.
- Boil It: Cook fruit thoroughly to destroy eggs and larvae.
Once treated, dispose of the fruit in your general waste bin — not your compost! Report sightings to help us monitor outbreaks. Learn more at www.darebin.vic.gov.au/queenslandfruitfly. |
If you have community events or stories you would like to share, email climateemergency@darebin.vic.gov.au by the 15th of each month. You can also join the conversation at our
Sustainable Darebin Facebook group |
If you have community events or stories you would like to share, email climateemergency@darebin.vic.gov.au by the 15th of each month. You can also join the conversation at our
Sustainable Darebin Facebook group |
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Copyright © 2025 Darebin City Council, All rights reserved. |
Copyright © 2025 Darebin City Council, All rights reserved. |
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