The Templestowe World of Learning is inspiring literary joy with a new Community Corner complete with a little library and wooden bench.

Designed and created by Kai Menzies, a Box Hill TAFE furniture design student the intention of the little library and wooden bench is to inspire minds and encourage learning.

Shelley Jacobson, Templestowe World of Learning Centre Manager said they wanted to deliver a community project for some time and Manningham’s Placemaking funding was the perfect way to make this a reality.

Shelley said the children’s reaction to the community corner was sheer delight.

“The children love it. As soon as they saw it they rushed to sit on the bench and explore all the books in the little library.”

Parents, grandparents and passers’ by are also enjoying the literary space.

“Some of the parents have even taken ownership of the bench seat, saying it should be named after them! We will set up a book exchange so everyone in the community can come and enjoy the little library space.

“We also like the fact the chair and library were built by a local student who has used his skills to benefit the whole community.

“What he has created for us is absolutely beautiful and the children just love it."

The temporary pop-up park spaces at Tunstall Square, Jackson Court, Macedon Square and Templestowe Village have been welcomed by our community. For some of these spaces, it is time to say goodbye.

Feedback from the initial surveys indicates our community values piazza-style spaces or village squares located in their neighbourhood spaces.

We now want to hear from you to help us evaluate the pop-up parks and outdoor dining initiatives.

What have the pop-up parks meant to you? How have you enjoyed outdoor dining? Tell us about your experience – complete our survey

Expressions of Interest for Placemaking funding have now closed. Successful applicants will be advised directly if they will receive up to $1000 per single application for a project or event that helps people connect and enjoy their local neighbourhood.

We received a fantastic range of ideas to activate different spaces in Manningham, reflecting our diverse community. We would like to thank all the applicants for your creative ideas to bring people together.

Events funded include:

• Lion Dancing at Jackson Court for Lunar New Year
• Free yoga classes in Jackson Court Pop-up park
• The Easter Bunny at Templestowe Village
  
  

Many more events to come! Stay tuned for updates here and on our social media channels.

Manningham is seeking Expressions of Interest from community organisations and individuals on small events or projects that will help bring alive their special places and for traders, support outdoor dining and community connections.

All the research shows that the most effective way to support resilience in this pandemic environment is to help people connect, and business to thrive, in their local neighbourhoods. We are supporting the 20 minute neighbourhood (walking or cycling to the things you need).

“Place making” is often community or business led. Council will allocate up to $1000 per single application to projects and events that help people connect and thrive in their place. Traders can join together for slightly larger amounts. We will make a selection that has a geographic spread across Manningham and represents a mix of projects and events that reflect our diverse community.

These EOIs will be assessed as they come in and the process will be kept open until the end of February, or until funds are exhausted. Successful applicants will need to invoice Council for their project. Visit the Your Say project for criteria and the EOI Form.

MC2 Spoonville