Member for Macedon, Mary-Anne Thomas is calling on young people aged 16-26 to take part in a new initiative designed to empower local youth.
Announced this week, the Macedon Youth Advisory Council will comprise 12 members selected from across the Macedon electorate.
This unique program will provide participants with the opportunity to build their understanding of government, the role and responsibilities of a Member of Parliament and to understand pathways into politics.
Once formed, the Council will meet five times over a 12 month period to discuss local issues, learn about the parliamentary system and how young people can better participate in the decision-making process. A visit to parliament house is included as part of the program of activities.
The announcement of the Macedon Youth Advisory Council delivers on an election commitment made by Ms Thomas prior to the 2018 election.
Members of the Macedon Youth Advisory Council will be selected following an application process, where hopefuls are encouraged to submit an expression of interest in writing or via video.
Applications close on Friday May 3, 2019. For more information about the Youth Advisory Council and to complete an application go to: mary-annethomas.com.au/campaign/macedon-youth-advisory-council/
Quotes attributable to Member for Macedon, Mary-Anne Thomas:
“We are so lucky to have such incredibly talented young people in our community – the Macedon Youth Advisory Council is a chance for our future leaders to bring their ideas directly to me and to build their skills.”
“Now more than ever, our young people are crying out to have their voices heard. I’m proud to be able to provide young people in our community with a platform and the knowledge to raise issues that are important to them.”
Member for Macedon, Mary-Anne Thomas is calling on young people aged 16-26 to take part in a new initiative designed to empower local youth.
Announced this week, the Macedon Youth Advisory Council will comprise 12 members selected from across the Macedon electorate.
This unique program will provide participants with the opportunity to build their understanding of government, the role and responsibilities of a Member of Parliament and to understand pathways into politics.
Once formed, the Council will meet five times over a 12 month period to discuss local issues, learn about the parliamentary system and how young people can better participate in the decision-making process. A visit to parliament house is included as part of the program of activities.
The announcement of the Macedon Youth Advisory Council delivers on an election commitment made by Ms Thomas prior to the 2018 election.
Members of the Macedon Youth Advisory Council will be selected following an application process, where hopefuls are encouraged to submit an expression of interest in writing or via video.
Applications close on Friday May 3, 2019. For more information about the Youth Advisory Council and to complete an application go to: mary-annethomas.com.au/campaign/macedon-youth-advisory-council/
Quotes attributable to Member for Macedon, Mary-Anne Thomas:
“We are so lucky to have such incredibly talented young people in our community – the Macedon Youth Advisory Council is a chance for our future leaders to bring their ideas directly to me and to build their skills.”
“Now more than ever, our young people are crying out to have their voices heard. I’m proud to be able to provide young people in our community with a platform and the knowledge to raise issues that are important to them.”
Five sporting facilities around Hepburn and the Macedon Ranges are receiving upgrades to meet the needs of growing communities and a huge uptake in local women’s sport, thanks to a major boost from the Andrews Labor Government.
Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Martin Pakula today joined Member for Macedon Mary-Anne Thomas to officially open the new facilities at Daylesford and Hepburn United Soccer Club.
The soccer club’s pavilion at Victoria Park has been upgraded through the Labor Government’s Female Friendly Facilities program to support strong growth in female players, with the construction of two female friendly change rooms and showers, accessible public toilets, baby change facilities, a first aid area and office space.
The Female Friendly Facilities fund has also upgraded Hepburn Football Netball Club’s pavilion, with two new female friendly change rooms, umpire amenities, accessible public toilets, baby change facilities, storage and first aid areas.
Malmsbury Cricket Club is preparing to expand and welcome female cricketers, with the club receiving a $100,000 upgrade including three new practice nets, new boundary fencing and re-cladding of the pavilion.
Construction is also starting on a redevelopment of the existing skate park in Daylesford, with the Labor Government providing $240,000 for a modern, challenging and accessible park that will feature a new skate bowl, jumps and tricks section, basketball ring area, shade, seating and new landscaping.
Trentham Football Netball Club has also scored upgraded facilities through the government’s Country Football and Netball Program, and is now able to accommodate more players in its growing netball club.
The Labor Government has invested over $630 million in community sport and recreation facilities across Victoria since 2014.
Minister Pakula acknowledged Hepburn Shire Council and Macedon Ranges Shire Council for their investment in the projects, as well as the local community’s fundraising efforts and in-kind support.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Martin Pakula:
“All Victorians should have access to high quality recreation facilities regardless of where they live, and we want to encourage everyone in Hepburn to get active and get involved in their local sporting clubs.”
“More women than ever before are signing up for local sports teams - but too many clubs are being held back by outdated or non-existent facilities. We’re proud to be making sport accessible to everyone.”
Quote attributable to Member for Macedon, Mary-Anne Thomas:
“We’re proud to be delivering the modern sports facilities that Hepburn and Macedon Ranges Shire’s netball, soccer, cricket and footy players deserve, as well as redeveloping the Daylesford skate park to attract users from all around our region.”
Five sporting facilities around Hepburn and the Macedon Ranges are receiving upgrades to meet the needs of growing communities and a huge uptake in local women’s sport, thanks to a major boost from the Andrews Labor Government.
Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Martin Pakula today joined Member for Macedon Mary-Anne Thomas to officially open the new facilities at Daylesford and Hepburn United Soccer Club.
The soccer club’s pavilion at Victoria Park has been upgraded through the Labor Government’s Female Friendly Facilities program to support strong growth in female players, with the construction of two female friendly change rooms and showers, accessible public toilets, baby change facilities, a first aid area and office space.
The Female Friendly Facilities fund has also upgraded Hepburn Football Netball Club’s pavilion, with two new female friendly change rooms, umpire amenities, accessible public toilets, baby change facilities, storage and first aid areas.
Malmsbury Cricket Club is preparing to expand and welcome female cricketers, with the club receiving a $100,000 upgrade including three new practice nets, new boundary fencing and re-cladding of the pavilion.
Construction is also starting on a redevelopment of the existing skate park in Daylesford, with the Labor Government providing $240,000 for a modern, challenging and accessible park that will feature a new skate bowl, jumps and tricks section, basketball ring area, shade, seating and new landscaping.
Trentham Football Netball Club has also scored upgraded facilities through the government’s Country Football and Netball Program, and is now able to accommodate more players in its growing netball club.
The Labor Government has invested over $630 million in community sport and recreation facilities across Victoria since 2014.
Minister Pakula acknowledged Hepburn Shire Council and Macedon Ranges Shire Council for their investment in the projects, as well as the local community’s fundraising efforts and in-kind support.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Martin Pakula:
“All Victorians should have access to high quality recreation facilities regardless of where they live, and we want to encourage everyone in Hepburn to get active and get involved in their local sporting clubs.”
“More women than ever before are signing up for local sports teams - but too many clubs are being held back by outdated or non-existent facilities. We’re proud to be making sport accessible to everyone.”
Quote attributable to Member for Macedon, Mary-Anne Thomas:
“We’re proud to be delivering the modern sports facilities that Hepburn and Macedon Ranges Shire’s netball, soccer, cricket and footy players deserve, as well as redeveloping the Daylesford skate park to attract users from all around our region.”
A Macedon Ranges sculptor has added creative flair to the space underneath Melton Highway’s new bridge in place of a notorious Sydenham level crossing.
A concept from sculptor Jason Waterhouse was chosen as the Melton Highway Level Crossing Removal Project’s preferred artwork late last year following a comprehensive two-stage process, including detailed submissions from shortlisted artists that were evaluated by an expert panel.
Member for Macedon, Mary-Anne Thomas MP met with Mr Waterhouse at the site of the finished work for its official opening in Sydenham today.
The artwork, entitled ‘Levelled Crossing’, reuses the removed boom gates from the former Melton Highway level crossing and ties them together, fabricating the central knot in steel and grafting it to the existing boom gates to give a seamless finish.
Mr Waterhouse, who operates an arts hub in Kyneton, installed the artwork in December last year as part of an architect-designed space under the eastern side of the new six-lane road bridge.
Public expressions of interest for the artwork opened in early 2018 and from the submissions received, shortlisted artists were invited to visit the site and submit detailed designs and costings.
Artists were encouraged to meet several public artwork outcomes in their submissions and were assessed on criteria such as artistic quality and viewer experience; feasibility of installation; and contribution to the local area.
‘Levelled Crossing’ is the most recent artwork to be installed as part of the Level Crossing Removal Project, following pieces already installed at several new train stations across Melbourne.
The Melton Highway level crossing was removed for good in January 2018. For more information about the project, visit levelcrossings.vic.gov.au/projects/melton-highway
Quotes attributable to Artist, Jason Waterhouse:
“The work provides viewers and commuters with a fun, engaging and slightly surreal experience as they pass through the space and encounter the sculpture.
“‘Levelled Crossing’ is a playful take on the rail/road intersection history of the site and its recent urban development.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Macedon, Mary-Anne Thomas:
“It’s such a delight to see Jason Waterhouse’s clever and creative concept on display – I’m proud of the booming arts scene we have across the Central Highlands and the Macedon Ranges.”
“The Andrews Government has committed to removing 75 level crossings by 2025 and this artwork is a playful celebration of the progress being made to get rid of these level crossings once and for all.”
Quote attributable to Member for Sydenham, Natalie Hutchins:
“Our unprecedented removal of level crossings is making a real difference to people’s lives – reducing congestion, improving safety and creating thousands of jobs for people all over Victoria.”
A Macedon Ranges sculptor has added creative flair to the space underneath Melton Highway’s new bridge in place of a notorious Sydenham level crossing.
A concept from sculptor Jason Waterhouse was chosen as the Melton Highway Level Crossing Removal Project’s preferred artwork late last year following a comprehensive two-stage process, including detailed submissions from shortlisted artists that were evaluated by an expert panel.
Member for Macedon, Mary-Anne Thomas MP met with Mr Waterhouse at the site of the finished work for its official opening in Sydenham today.
The artwork, entitled ‘Levelled Crossing’, reuses the removed boom gates from the former Melton Highway level crossing and ties them together, fabricating the central knot in steel and grafting it to the existing boom gates to give a seamless finish.
Mr Waterhouse, who operates an arts hub in Kyneton, installed the artwork in December last year as part of an architect-designed space under the eastern side of the new six-lane road bridge.
Public expressions of interest for the artwork opened in early 2018 and from the submissions received, shortlisted artists were invited to visit the site and submit detailed designs and costings.
Artists were encouraged to meet several public artwork outcomes in their submissions and were assessed on criteria such as artistic quality and viewer experience; feasibility of installation; and contribution to the local area.
‘Levelled Crossing’ is the most recent artwork to be installed as part of the Level Crossing Removal Project, following pieces already installed at several new train stations across Melbourne.
The Melton Highway level crossing was removed for good in January 2018. For more information about the project, visit levelcrossings.vic.gov.au/projects/melton-highway
Quotes attributable to Artist, Jason Waterhouse:
“The work provides viewers and commuters with a fun, engaging and slightly surreal experience as they pass through the space and encounter the sculpture.
“‘Levelled Crossing’ is a playful take on the rail/road intersection history of the site and its recent urban development.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Macedon, Mary-Anne Thomas:
“It’s such a delight to see Jason Waterhouse’s clever and creative concept on display – I’m proud of the booming arts scene we have across the Central Highlands and the Macedon Ranges.”
“The Andrews Government has committed to removing 75 level crossings by 2025 and this artwork is a playful celebration of the progress being made to get rid of these level crossings once and for all.”
Quote attributable to Member for Sydenham, Natalie Hutchins:
“Our unprecedented removal of level crossings is making a real difference to people’s lives – reducing congestion, improving safety and creating thousands of jobs for people all over Victoria.”
Barfold will receive a new mobile phone tower through a partnership between the Andrews Labor Government and the Federal Government.
Member for Macedon Mary-Anne Thomas celebrated the announcement with local CFA volunteers and community members at Langley-Barfold Fire Station.
The Labor Government’s $5.8 million investment in regional mobile phone towers will massively expand 4G coverage across regional Victoria.
The plan will see dozens of new mobile towers built across regional Victoria – eliminating black spots, boosting coverage and improving safety for local communities.
The 30 new towers will be co-funded by the Victorian and Federal governments in partnership with Telstra and Optus, through round four of the Mobile Black Spot Program.
The location of the towers is the result of extensive consultation with Victoria’s nine Regional Partnerships, local government, Emergency Management Victoria, Telstra and Optus.
Public safety, value for money and economic development opportunities were all key considerations during the consultation, ensuring the new towers will go to regional communities most in need of better mobile connection.
The Labor Government had committed $55 million to 194 new regional mobile towers, which will connect 20,000 premises to coverage for the first time.
More than 130 of these towers are complete and today’s announcement means the Victorian Government is now funding 224 towers across the state.
We are also boosting connectivity across the regions through mobile towers and repeaters to improve coverage for commuters on regional rail.
Quotes attributable to Member for Macedon, Mary-Anne Thomas:
“This new tower will make a real difference to people in Barfold and neighbouring towns – boosting safety and coverage for this community.”
“Delivering better coverage for regional Victorians is an absolute must and we’re proud be getting on with the job.”
“We’ve already delivered more than 130 new mobile towers, giving regional Victorians access to better information and a better signal when they need it most.”
Barfold will receive a new mobile phone tower through a partnership between the Andrews Labor Government and the Federal Government.
Member for Macedon Mary-Anne Thomas celebrated the announcement with local CFA volunteers and community members at Langley-Barfold Fire Station.
The Labor Government’s $5.8 million investment in regional mobile phone towers will massively expand 4G coverage across regional Victoria.
The plan will see dozens of new mobile towers built across regional Victoria – eliminating black spots, boosting coverage and improving safety for local communities.
The 30 new towers will be co-funded by the Victorian and Federal governments in partnership with Telstra and Optus, through round four of the Mobile Black Spot Program.
The location of the towers is the result of extensive consultation with Victoria’s nine Regional Partnerships, local government, Emergency Management Victoria, Telstra and Optus.
Public safety, value for money and economic development opportunities were all key considerations during the consultation, ensuring the new towers will go to regional communities most in need of better mobile connection.
The Labor Government had committed $55 million to 194 new regional mobile towers, which will connect 20,000 premises to coverage for the first time.
More than 130 of these towers are complete and today’s announcement means the Victorian Government is now funding 224 towers across the state.
We are also boosting connectivity across the regions through mobile towers and repeaters to improve coverage for commuters on regional rail.
Quotes attributable to Member for Macedon, Mary-Anne Thomas:
“This new tower will make a real difference to people in Barfold and neighbouring towns – boosting safety and coverage for this community.”
“Delivering better coverage for regional Victorians is an absolute must and we’re proud be getting on with the job.”
“We’ve already delivered more than 130 new mobile towers, giving regional Victorians access to better information and a better signal when they need it most.”
In 2018, I made a public commitment that I would start a Youth Advisory Council if I were elected for another term.
I'm thrilled that the Macedon community has entrusted me with another four years as their representative so that I can make good on my promise to young people in my electorate!
The aims of the Youth Advisory Council are to provide a platform for the perspectives and priorities of young people across Macedon, to empower young people to take action, show leadership and learn about government and its processes.
I want to hear from young people across the Macedon electorate about what matters to them.
So, if you are aged between 16 – 26 and are interested in making a real impact in our community and representing your peers, I encourage you to apply.
Get started on your application here.
Applications close on Friday 3 May, with our first event scheduled later that month.
Mary-Anne Thomas MP
Who is it for?
The Youth Advisory Council is for 12 passionate and community-minded young people from across the Macedon electorate.
Applicants should be between the ages of 16 – 26 inclusive and be committed to attending all sessions.
What is the commitment?
The Youth Advisory Council will meet five times over a year at various locations including at the Victorian Parliament.
Why apply for the Youth Advisory Council?
The Youth Advisory Council will bring together young people who are interested in taking a leadership role within our community.
This unique program will provide participants with the opportunity to build their understanding of government, the role and responsibilities of a Member of Parliament, and to understand pathways into politics.
How can I apply for the Youth Advisory Council?
There are 4 simple questions to answer in the application for the Youth Advisory Council. Applicants can answer them in writing or via a video.
What do you love about living in the Macedon electorate?
What issues are most important to you, and why?
Why do you want to be a part of the Youth Advisory Council?
In your opinion, what do you think is something that could be improved for our community?
Whether you choose to answer these questions in writing or via a video you will need to fill out the online application form HERE, so that we know how best to contact you.
Applications close Friday 3 May, 2019.
For more information or any other questions, email korey.fernando@parliament.vic.gov.au
In 2018, I made a public commitment that I would start a Youth Advisory Council if I were elected for another term.
I'm thrilled that the Macedon community has entrusted me with another four years as their representative so that I can make good on my promise to young people in my electorate!
The aims of the Youth Advisory Council are to provide a platform for the perspectives and priorities of young people across Macedon, to empower young people to take action, show leadership and learn about government and its processes.
I want to hear from young people across the Macedon electorate about what matters to them.
So, if you are aged between 16 – 26 and are interested in making a real impact in our community and representing your peers, I encourage you to apply.
Get started on your application here.
Applications close on Friday 3 May, with our first event scheduled later that month.
Mary-Anne Thomas MP
Who is it for?
The Youth Advisory Council is for 12 passionate and community-minded young people from across the Macedon electorate.
Applicants should be between the ages of 16 – 26 inclusive and be committed to attending all sessions.
What is the commitment?
The Youth Advisory Council will meet five times over a year at various locations including at the Victorian Parliament.
Why apply for the Youth Advisory Council?
The Youth Advisory Council will bring together young people who are interested in taking a leadership role within our community.
This unique program will provide participants with the opportunity to build their understanding of government, the role and responsibilities of a Member of Parliament, and to understand pathways into politics.
How can I apply for the Youth Advisory Council?
There are 4 simple questions to answer in the application for the Youth Advisory Council. Applicants can answer them in writing or via a video.
What do you love about living in the Macedon electorate?
What issues are most important to you, and why?
Why do you want to be a part of the Youth Advisory Council?
In your opinion, what do you think is something that could be improved for our community?
Whether you choose to answer these questions in writing or via a video you will need to fill out the online application form HERE, so that we know how best to contact you.
Applications close Friday 3 May, 2019.
For more information or any other questions, email korey.fernando@parliament.vic.gov.au
Join me in calling for action at the Barry Street and Main Street intersection.
Join me in calling for action at the Barry Street and Main Street intersection.
Learn about my position on the Voluntary Assisted Dying Bill
Learn about my position on the Voluntary Assisted Dying Bill
Join me in calling for action at the Saunders Rd and Station Rd intersection.
Join me in calling for action at the Saunders Rd and Station Rd intersection.