Brimbank Council Meeting No. 637 - 10 September 2024

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12.7

Annual Community Report Cards For Community Learning And Participation

12.7

Annual Community Report Cards for Community

Learning and Participation

Directorate

Community Wellbeing

Acting Director

Ashley Fleming

Manager

Mohammed Isah

Attachment(s)

1. Report Card - Learning and Youth Jobs 2023-2024

[

12.7.1

- 7 pages]

2. Report Card - Neighbourhood Houses and Community

Centres 2023-2024 [

12.7.2

- 8 pages]

3. Report Card - Creative Brimbank 2023-2024 [

12.7.3

- 8

pages]

4. Report Card - Library Services 2023-2024 [

12.7.4

- 14

pages]

Purpose

For Council to note the Annual Community Report Cards for Library Services,

Neighbourhood Houses and Community Centres, Creative Brimbank and Learning and

Youth Jobs (

Attachments 1 to 4

).

Officer Recommendation

That Council notes the Annual Community Report Cards for Library Services,

Neighbourhood Houses and Community Centres, Creative Brimbank and

Learning and Youth Jobs at Attachments 1 to 4 to this report.

Background

Social inclusion, employment opportunities, lifelong learning and creativity underpin

programs and services offered through Libraries, Arts facilities, Neighbourhood Houses

and Brimbank Learning Futures (BLF) to support better health, wellbeing, social and

economic outcomes for individuals and the community.

These annual report cards include community usage data and project highlights

addressing actions and priorities from the following strategies:

Library Strategy 2020-2025:

Council’s libraries are designed to foster lifelong learning and provide a range of

learning, social and cultural activities, programs, resources and services.

Neighbourhood Houses and Community Centres Strategy 2019-2024:

This Strategy provides a framework to transform Council’s neighbourhood houses into

sites of belonging and learning for all.

Cultural Strategy 2024-2028, Festival and Events Policy and Strategy 2022-

2025:

These documents collectively outline how Council will support arts and cultural

development and its role as host and producer, custodian, enabler, partner and patron.

Brimbank Lifelong Learning Strategy 2024-2029:

This Strategy is a long-term approach to improving social and economic outcomes and

recognises learning as a driver for positive change.

Brimbank Council Meeting No. 637 - 10 September 2024

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Brimbank Youth Jobs Strategy 2018-2023:

The Brimbank Youth Jobs Strategy 2018-2023 was developed by local young people for

local young people, providing a framework for considering and responding to high youth

unemployment rates in Brimbank. Brimbank Learning Futures (BLF) is a lifelong learning

hub with innovative outreach engagement and responsive programming that connects

young people and adults to learning and pathways.

Matters for Consideration

A major focus of Council’s work right across Brimbank is to support people of all ages

and from all backgrounds to learn and develop skills that over time will lead to work,

which in turn supports social and economic benefits for individuals and the community.

Baseline measures set up to track Council progress showed positive improvements this

year. They included an increase in people completing Year 12, an increase in Naplan

literacy standards, a drop in youth unemployment, more people attending TAFE, more

people with a variety of qualifications and an increase in the number of people aged over

55 working or learning.

Council’s efforts to support community to learn and thrive continued to stretch from

captivating young residents right through to older adults. Tens of thousands of people

attended programs including playgroups and story time in libraries, study support for

school students and those sitting important high-school exams and adult learning and

employment programs.

Among Council’s successes was Vic Kids Eat Well small bite ‘Switch to healthier snacks’ &

Boost veggies and salad’ accreditation at West Sunshine Community Centre and

Sydenham Neighbourhood House. There has been a number of strategies to increase the

availability of fresh fruits and vegetable options across all council Neighbourhood houses,

Library and Community Centres including the delivery of 9 seminars with more than 180

attendees on health eating and wellbeing.

Visits to Council’s five libraries increased 116 per cent and Brimbank’s neighbourhood

houses and community centres all achieved Carers Friendly Accreditation. Level 1 Auslan

training was provided for 40 staff and level 2 training provide to 10 staff.

Council made a significant investment in psychosocial support programs and activities

this year to address the enduring effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on community

mental health and wellbeing. Extensive community consultation with over 450

participants informed program development to ensure alignment with community

priorities.

Improvements to Council Centers included a Library review that highlighted a benchmark

achievement for the Council. Brimbank libraries was ranked first in customer satisfaction

among like metropolitan local government libraries in Victoria and achieved a state-wide

ranking of twelfth.

More than 157,000 Brimbank residents were welcomed through the doors at STACC, a

20% increase on the previous year. Community events funded through the Festivals and

Events category of the community grants program saw over 305,000 people engage with

these activities, a 97% increase on last year.

The Bowery Theatre also saw significant increases with 66 performing arts events up

from 48 the previous year and in turn an increase in attendance with over 8,500

audience members.

Community Engagement

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•

Services and programs delivered during 2023-2024 were informed by extensive

community engagement, including:

o

Regular feedback from customers, residents, and community groups

accessing libraries, neighbourhood houses, arts facilities, and BLF

services.

o

Direct feedback from program participants, both in-person and online.

o

Collaborative program development with young people, such as career

workshops.

o

Consultation with the Brimbank Arts Advisory Committee on public art

and mural commissions.

Resource And Risk Implications

Resource requirements were met within the Annual Budget 2023/2024.

There are no community, environmental, financial, regulatory or safety risk implications

identified.

Legislation/Council Plan/Policy Context

This report supports the Council Plan 2021-2025 strategic direction and objective of:

1. People and Community - A welcoming, safe and supported community - An

inclusive place for all

• Wellbeing and Belonging - Responsive services that support mental and physical

wellbeing

3. Opportunity and Prosperity - A future focused, transforming city where all

have opportunities to learn and earn - A prosperous place for all

• Earning and Learning - Everyone has access to education, training and lifelong learning

to support their aspirations

4. Leadership and Governance - A high performing organisation that enacts the

vision and decisions of Council through the delivery of quality and innovative

services - A fairer place for all

• Engaged and Responsive - Community insights are valued to enhance connection and

engagement with Council.

This report complies with Library Strategy 2020-2025, Neighbourhood Houses and

Community Centres Strategy 2019-2024, Arts and Culture Strategy 2024-2028, Festivals

and Events Policy and Strategy 2022-2025, Brimbank Lifelong Learning Strategy 2024-

2029 and Brimbank Youth Jobs Strategy 2018 – 2023.

Council officers contributing to the preparation and approval of this report, have no

conflicts of interests to declare.

Learning and Youth Jobs

Annual Report Card 2023-2024

Brimbank City Council supports a range of activities that foster better

learning and employment outcomes for the community.

The Brimbank Lifelong Learning Strategy provides a long-term approach to improving

social and economic outcomes and recognises that learning is a driver for positive

change. The 2023-2024 financial year saw the adoption of the fourth Brimbank Lifelong

Learning Strategy 2024-2029 in November of 2023, building on the work of previous

years.

The Brimbank Youth Jobs Strategy 2018-2023 was developed by local young people for

local young people, providing a framework for considering and responding to high youth

unemployment rates in Brimbank. Brimbank Learning Futures (BLF) is a lifelong learning

hub with innovative outreach engagement and responsive programming that connects

young people and adults to learning and pathways. BLF is an integral part of delivering

the Local Jobs for Local People – Youth Stream in 2024.

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Attachment 12.7.1

Council and Brimbank Learning Futures has continued

to build on its strategic partnerships in 2023/2024

developing new partnerships and enhancing and

expanding existing partnerships for the benefit of the

Brimbank community. Partners including Jobs Victoria

providers, Victoria University Skills and Jobs Centre,

Department of Education and Training, headspace,

Orygen Youth Mental Health, MiCare, Jesuit Community

College, Settlement Service International, Djerriwarrh

Community & Education, Expression Australia, I CAN

Network, RMIT, Good Things Foundation, Lively, NGV,

CoHealth, Good Shepherd and Legal Aid, The Youth

Junction amongst others.

These services support council to provide a range of

programs and activities to the community.

Council works with these and other partners and

stakeholders to add value to each other’s programs

for enhanced learning and education and to offer

better learning and career pathway outcomes for

our community.

;

Parents supported in their roles in children’s lives

through the promotion of language, literacy and the

value of home languages, through the trial of Dari

–English bilingual story times, introducing families to

early literacy and wider council services and learning

programs.

;

Awarded State Government Multicultural story

time grant of $105,750. Funds will be used to work

in partnership with Village Response Collective to

deliver 80 sessions of Pasifika languages story times

over the next four years and 80 sessions of inclusive

story times with Auslan-English story times

;

Piloted a community led Cantonese - English bilingual

story time to support local families to foster a

connection to their home language and provide social

support for isolated new mums

;

Working in partnership with Everyday Independence

to build staff capacity in libraries & early years

to support families with early years speech

development and school readiness.

;

Learning-rich programs for pre-school children met

through 27,599 attendances at 885 early years pre

literacy and children’s literacy programs in libraries.

;

Over 500 families with children aged between 0-5

participated in Brimbank Smalltalk groups and in

home support. Smalltalk focuses on helping parents

increase their knowledge of and participation in

local, community-based services, and to access

more opportunities for community-based social and

personal support.

;

Libraries partnered with Smalltalk to increase

literacy opportunities for families in the home via an

outreach program for playgroup settings, including

playgroup story time sessions and a book borrowing

program.

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Attachment 12.7.1

;

School aged children were supported through the

biannual Schools Exchange Network program,

a partnership between Brimbank Council,

Good Shepherd, Melbourne City Mission and

representatives from the Department of Education

and local schools. Two professional development

sessions for teachers and services working with

young people in Brimbank were delivered on how to

support young people through School Refusals and

emotional resilience, and Loss and Grief.

;

Partnered with Ardoch foundation to deliver Literacy

Buddies, a program to support grade 4 students at

Ardeer Primary School with literacy, writing and social

skills. Held over six months, school children exchange

letters with council staff, enhancing their social and

literacy skills and developing positive experiences

with adults.

;

Brimbank Council continued its $30,000 scholarship

grant to Western Chances to enable more Brimbank

students to be supported to stay at school and

continue to tertiary education. Western Chances

support students to stay at school with practical

assistance such as transportation costs, IT, textbooks

and stationery.

;

Strengthened the connection between schools

and young people that identify with the LGBTQIA+

community through IDAHOBIT, Wear it Purple Day,

Pride Month, and other activities with local schools.

;

Collaborated with Lively.org to facilitate

intergenerational digital literacy workshops for

seniors in the CALD community, giving young

people work experience and employment readiness,

confidence and presentation skills and public

speaking skills.

;

Brimbank Libraries engaged young community

members to deliver workshops on writing, motivation

and Study Skills, resulting in confidence building,

work readiness and speaking and presenting skills.

;

Brimbank Learning Futures in partnership with

Libraries and Ardoch Foundation delivered a council

careers session. Twenty-eight students met with

twelve council staff to learn more about their role

and the pathway they took to get there.

;

Launched a rebrand of the annual update of

Homework and Study Clubs in Brimbank with a

section on wellbeing for young people resource.

;

Continued subscription to Studiosity, a free online

tutoring program which provides study help to all

students and community members through subject

matter experts, that is provided free of charge to the

community. The service also supports job seekers by

providing feedback on their resume and cover letter

and assists with job search skills.

;

Homework and learning support was delivered

through 69 education support programs and

activities delivered in Neighborhood Houses, with

134 regular attendees.

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Attachment 12.7.1

;

A partnership was developed with Foundation House

and Gen West to support Afghan women through a

10-week mental health workshop series. Additional

information on early years support was embedded

into the program to support the women’s parenting

journey in Australia.

;

Workshops delivered to target financial literacy and

education to support people to navigate increased

cost of living, mortgage stress, and debt. Workshops

included Budgeting Basics, Bills and your money and

Debt Support.

;

Brimbank Libraries received State Government

Digital Literacy funding for older adults to enable

increased learning participation online throughout

2023. This assisted library staff in the delivery of a

number of initiatives aimed at equipping individuals

with the tools and knowledge needed to thrive in

today’s digital landscape. Over 800 participants

attended a variety of programs from basic to

advanced skill development.

;

Libraries delivered 1,454 adult programs attended

by 5,701 participants in partnership with internal

and external stakeholders on varied topics,

including financial literacy workshops, wellbeing

and mindfulness, art and craft, cultural experiences,

author talks, writing workshops, digital literacy, self

awareness and job seeking, amongst other topics.

;

Annual update of English Language programs in

Brimbank resource developed.

;

In collaboration with the Learn West Network,

launched local learning stories during Adult

Learners Week highlighting the learning journeys

of community members in Brimbank. Stories were

published quarterly in the Celebrating Learning

newsletter, online on the Discover Learning in

Brimbank website, and on the Learn West webpage.

;

Celebrating Learning newsletter distributed online,

sharing local projects, good news stories, information

and resources relating to learning in all its forms.

;

154,675 page views on Discover Learning in

Brimbank, an online directory of no charge and

low-cost activities, courses and programs available

in Brimbank through Council and community

service providers. This is a 26.5 % increase from

the previous year.

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Attachment 12.7.1

;

In partnership with Village Response Collective,

four Pasifika women trained in story time delivery

to support literacy development in Samoan,

Tongan, Tovalu and English. The women will

be employed to deliver bilingual story times in

Brimbank over four years.

;

In collaboration with Lively.org employed one local

young Brimbank community member to deliver

intergenerational digital literacy programs

;

Piloted the use of virtual reality (VR) careers

exploration and interviews with schools and

community groups, including Hester Hornbrook

Academy and Western English Language School. VR

headsets are loaded with careers experiences and

interview skills software to give young people virtual

experience of different careers and an opportunity to

practice interview skills.

;

In collaboration with Matchworks and Victoria

University, participated in the Rainbow Jobs expo

aimed at connecting LGBTIQ+ community and others

to employment opportunities and supports.

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Attachment 12.7.1

;

Weekly one on one Careers Counselling Sessions

held in partnership with Victoria University Skills and

Jobs Centre’s career counsellor. This program assisted

154 residents with careers advice, resumes and job

readiness support at Brimbank Learning Futures and

St Albans Library.

;

Improved young people’s entrepreneurial skills

through skill building workshops and events including

the Makers Market End of Year event and Showcase

attracting 130 participants.

;

Provided paid opportunities for young people

to contribute to co-design committees,

consultations and supporting a range of

community events and programs.

;

Partnered with St John’s Ambulance to deliver

CPR and First Aid accredited and non-accredit

courses in 3021 and 3020 as part of the Defib in

your street program.

;

Partnered with Jesuit Community College and

Brimbank Neighbourhood House unit to deliver

training opportunities for community, including, Food

safety, barista training, white card, computer skills and

responsible service of alcohol. These low or no cost

courses were delivered to 125 community members.

;

Delivered training opportunities for women in trades,

including partnering with Women in Trades Australia

for information sessions and delivering a Women’s

White Card - Safety Induction Training. 20 women

participated in these sessions.

;

Collaborated with Brimbank Neighbourhood

Houses to support education and employment

through accredited courses, career counselling, and

community engagement, improving connections

with local schools and offering tailored support for

local residents.

;

Community Learning and Participation units

collaborated with Youth Services, Economic

Development, and Leisure to deliver National Careers

Week activities including employability and youth

interview skills workshops and the Brimbank Local

Jobs Showcase. Over 300 residents attend seven local

activities during careers week.

;

Delivered the ‘Your Career Your Way’ program for

sixteen women aged 45+, providing employment

support and skills training through a partnership with

Victoria University Skills and Jobs Centre.

;

Worked with young people and Brimbank

Youth Services to co-design Linked In Real Life,

a monthly networking opportunity for young

people to connect them to leaders in different

industries and discuss career pathways in a safe

and supportive environment.

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Attachment 12.7.1

174 - 0724

9249 4000

info@brimbank.vic.gov.au

PO Box 70, Sunshine, VIC 3020

• TTY dial

133 677

• Speak & Listen

1300 555 727

•

www.relayservice.gov.au

, then enter

03 9249 4000

www.facebook.com/brimbankcouncil

x.com/BrimbankCouncil

www.youtube.com/brimbankcitycouncil

Use Brimby, the online virtual assistant

brimbank.vic.gov.au

9249 4000

info@brimbank.vic.gov.au

PO Box 70, Sunshine, VIC 3020

• TTY dial

133 677

• Speak & Listen

1300 555 727

•

www.relayservice.gov.au

, then enter

03 9249 4000

www.facebook.com/brimbankcouncil

x.com/BrimbankCouncil

www.youtube.com/brimbankcitycouncil

Use Brimby, the online virtual assistant

brimbank.vic.gov.au

Brimbank Learning Futures

80B Harvester Road, Sunshine, VIC 3020

Phone: 9249 4116

learning@brimbank.vic.gov.au

www.brimbanklibraries.vic.gov.au

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Attachment 12.7.1

Brimbank Council Neighbourhood Houses and Community Centres provide opportunities for people

to connect and learn, strengthen cultural identities, and build a sense of belonging in individuals and

groups across all life stages.

Much was achieved in the fifth year of the Council’s Neighbourhood Houses and Community Centers

Strategy and Action Plan 2019-2024, and momentum continues to build in evaluating the past 5

years in preparation of the development of the 2025 – 2030 strategy and action plan.

In 2023-2024 in response to community needs and aspirations during tough economic periods and

increased cost of living pressures, the focused was on building community resilience and agency

through capacity-building and psychosocial support programs, as well as initiatives that improve

health, wellbeing, and economic outcomes.

Brimbank

Neighbourhood Houses

and Community Centres

Annual Report Card 2023-2024

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Attachment 12.7.2

Neighbourhood Houses and Community

Centres continued to support the community

with access to services to improve health and

wellbeing outcomes.

;

Developing multi-use outdoor spaces at three

Community Centres, fostering community

engagement through partnerships, innovative

projects and initiatives that transformed street art

stereotypes, thereby enhancing social connections

and community-led activities.

;

Enhanced young people’s entrepreneurial skills

through organising events like Makers Showcase,

hosting the Makers Market End of Year event

and Showcase attracting 130 participants, and

facilitating network growth through Linked-In

Real Life, alongside impactful entrepreneurial and

diversity-focused workshops.

;

Partnered with Brimbank Learning Futures

achieved significant outcomes including accredited

hospitality courses, micro-credential programs,

tax assistance for low-income earners, youth

mentoring in music industry skills, VCE study

support, extensive career counselling, and

successful employment placements.

;

Partnered with St John’s Ambulance to deliver CPR and

First Aid accredited and non-accredit courses in 3021

and 3020 as part of the Defib in your street program.

;

Implemented a range of programs at Neighbourhood

Houses to combat social isolation. Some of these

activities’ programs including ballroom dancing,

gardening, and psychosocial support

;

Engaged with Westvale Men’s Shed to

expand programming and utilise outdoor

spaces effectively, fostering partnerships and

intergenerational skills sharing.

;

Partnered with local organisations to deliver

psychosocial support programs, offered

online parenting support in collaboration with

Relationships Australia, and piloted an All-Abilities

Health and Wellbeing Program with Inclusion

Melbourne and Reclink.

;

Implemented strategies to increase the availability of

fresh fruits and vegetable options across all council

managed Neighbourhood houses and community

canters. Have delivered 9 seminars with more than

180 attendees on health eating and wellbeing,

Achieved the Vic Kids Eat Well small bite ‘Switch

to healthier snacks’ & Boost veggies and salad’

accreditation at West Sunshine Community Centre

and Sydenham Neighbourhood House.

;

Partnered with VU Skills and Jobs Centre, Maternal

& Child Health, and MiCare to successfully

implement the ‘Your Career Your Way’ program,

delivering courses in computing and digital skills

to 25 women from Culturally and Linguistically

Diverse backgrounds aged 45 and over, bilingual

first aid information sessions to over 40 parents,

and Department of Health-funded first aid training

to 60 parents.

;

Partnered with VU Skills and Jobs Centre to launch the

‘Your Career Your Way’ Return to Paid Employment

workshop for women aged 45 and above.

;

Provided volunteers with opportunities to contribute

meaningfully to social and community outcomes

that align with community needs and strategic goals.

Across Neighbourhood Houses, volunteers were

engaged for an average of 102 hours per week, with

an annual replacement value of $229,500.

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Attachment 12.7.2

Provided leadership to the Brimbank

Neighbourhood Houses Strategic Partnership

(made up of both Council managed and

Community run NH/CCs)

;

The Brimbank Neighbourhood Cluster met

quarterly, marked by collaborative engagement,

enriching discussions, and strategic planning

efforts that highlighted stakeholders’ dedication to

community development. The session established

a strong groundwork for continued collaboration

to progress key initiatives and setting a positive

path for the 2024-25 year. The Cluster anticipates

leveraging these discussions to implement

impactful actions that will benefit the entire

community in line with the Neighbourhood Houses

Strategic Partnership Agreement and Action Plan

for 2022-2025.

;

Provided grants totaling $140,000 to four

community managed Neighbourhood Houses. This

included $35,000 per house as part of the Council’s

annual contribution grant.

;

Partnered with St John of God Ambulance to

support the Defib in Your Street CPR training

program, facilitated by St John Ambulance. This

initiative aims to establish some of the safest

locations in Australia by responding to sudden

cardiac arrest incidents. Throughout 23/24-year

weekly training sessions were held across Council

managed Neighbourhood Houses with over 400

residents in 3021 trained and 17 publicly accessible

defib’s installed. The programs have been able to

reach over 3000 community members through

informal awareness raising and eLearning courses.

;

Celebrated Neighbourhood House Week. “Stronger

Together,” was the theme. Range of come and

try programs and collaborative initiatives were

delivered across all houses and centres. Over 250

people came together for activities such as morning

teas, social gatherings, dance, historical and site

tours, walks, art and craft workshops, exercise,

gardening, and tree giveaway. The week enabled

staff and community to strengthen relationships

and forge new ones, at the same time create

awareness of programming and services.

;

Organised over 40 sessions of no-to-low-cost

school holiday activities, benefiting over 500

families across various locations within the

municipality. They fostered positive relationships,

strengthen family bonds, promoted health and

wellbeing, and improved the skills, independence,

resilience, and sense of belonging of children

and young people in Brimbank. Activities offered

included sports clinics, arts-based activities,

robotics, and other interactive play sessions

designed to engage and inspire.

;

Delivered more than 150 play group sessions with

approximately 500 families reached. The program

supports and connects parents, and focuses on

promoting children’s developmental domains

(cognitive, language, physical and social-emotional)

of children aged six months to five years and

building family relationships.

;

Delivered more than 150 Physical activity sessions

for ages 7 to 13 years reaching 200 participants.

These sessions offered a range of activities

including basketball, soccer, tennis, and catering for

a range of abilities.

;

Delivered 153 arts sessions and 69 education

based programs reaching more than 800

participants to increase self-confidence,

expression, identity and belonging.

;

Partnered with Relationships Australia Victoria to

deliver parenting support programs and Tuning into

Kids - Circle of Security for parents & carers.

;

Partnered with Brimbank’s Early Years Network

to design and deliver engagement activities in

Brimbank aimed at increasing awareness amongst

vulnerable families of Child Maternal health services

and to improve service access.

;

Partnered with several local primary schools

in Kings Park to conduct a 6-week Street Art

workshop, engaging several students under the

guidance of a young local street artist.

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Attachment 12.7.2

;

Provided over 15 Youth programs and events, over 150

sessions held with 2,000 young people attending.

;

Delivered several art exhibitions at the Hunt Club

Community Arts Centre that attracted over 1000

attendees. These exhibitions explored themes

such as mental health, identity, freedom, and

agency, with a notable highlight being ‘Re Present’

highlighting artwork created by local talents.

;

Continued ‘The House!’ creative arts program

for young people, facilitated by young people

themselves. The program attracted 43 participants

from diverse cultural backgrounds, with sessions

held twice weekly.

;

Partnered with Brimbank Youth Services,

Sydenham Library and Youth Support + Advocacy

Service to deliver ‘Chill Out,’ a drop-in youth program

offering local young people a safe space after

school for recreational activities, connection with

services, and employment support.

;

Held an end-of-year Makers Market at Sydenham

Neighbourhood House. The event highlighted

music performances from ‘The House’ music

program, community performances, and displayed

art designed by young local entrepreneurs.

;

Provided placement opportunities for secondary

and tertiary students to gain practical experience

and contribute to community initiatives.

;

Partnered with the Royal Children’s Hospital

Festival for Healthy Living to organize the Dream

BIG Youth Music Festival for R U Ok Day. Over 350

young people aged 8 to 25 from 16 schools in

Brimbank, Melton, and Wyndham participated,

promoting positive mental health from a youth

perspective. The event, held at the Bowery Theatre

and livestreamed, reached over 1,000 viewers.

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Attachment 12.7.2

;

The Unit’s team represents 19 distinct cultural

backgrounds. This diversity is spread across all

genders, band levels, including leadership roles.

;

The Unit continued to embed First Nations

knowledge and awareness into activities. These

include Indigenous Sensory Garden aimed at

increasing awareness of Aboriginal culture and

educating community about the significance of

Indigenous plants. NAIDOC Week programming

for all life stages and the embedment of

Acknowledgement of Country as standard practice

in meetings, programs, and events.

;

Celebrated Cultural Diversity week with three small

scale events, where 145 people attended. The

Unit hosted a story-sharing event in celebration of

Refugee Week attended by 50 people.

;

Partnered with local culturally and linguistically

diverse community groups to support with self

determined activities and programs to address

self-identified need in their communities.

;

Build Intergenerational Connections and Support

Adults and Seniors to Connect and Learn:

;

Delivered a 6-week intergenerational program

Future Woodworkers Project in local primary

schools. Participants from Westvale Men’s shed

mentored students equipping them with basic

woodworking skills.

;

Implemented Men’s Health education programs

as part of the Westvale Community Centre Men’s

Shed Program.

;

Provided support to community members to access

the Power Saving Bonus and Tax Help program.

;

Partnered with Brimbank Maternal and Child Health

Services and local organisations to deliver support to

newly arrived women who are at risk of isolation. This

included enrolments into childcare and kindergarten,

access to essentials such as prams, car seats,

children’s clothes and toys and driving lessons.

;

Partnered with local community groups and

organisation to deliver women’s health and

wellbeing initiatives such as arts therapy, physical

activity and social sessions including celebrating

International Women’s Day where local women

engaged in a variety of health and art-based

workshops and activities to learn strategies to

improve mental and wellbeing.

;

Provided 15 in person and online activities and

two small scale events for Men’s Health Week,

concluding with a main event engaging more than

400 people from cross section of the community to

learn about men’s health and wellbeing.

;

Supported digital inclusion and access by delivering

targeted programs and training to vulnerable

communities to increase skills to enhance wellbeing

and connection. These included computer, device

and smartphone classes, drop-in computer access

and assistance with online self-learning tools.

Attended by more than 350 participants.

;

Provided over 200 community programs through

3000 sessions to enhance learning, improve health

and wellbeing, increase physical activity, reduce

isolation, support family and social connections and

sense of belonging.

;

Provided access to several community gardens

across the municipality and delivered sustainable

living workshops covering a range of topics

including gardening, nutrition, and mitigation

of food insecurity. The initiative contributed to

improved health and wellbeing through increased

social connection, culturally valued activities, and

active living.

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Attachment 12.7.2

;

Partnered with over 90 community groups to

deliver community-led programs supporting

health, wellbeing, lifelong learning, and pathways

to employment, while enhancing community

connection and resilience. This collaboration has

facilitated locally tailored and evidence-based

solutions to address local needs and issues,

promoting better futures for residents.

;

Partnered with local community groups, organisations

and schools to provide opportunities for community

to connect, learn about local programs, and access

services tailored for all life stages.

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Attachment 12.7.2

Brimbank Council Managed Neighbourhood Houses and Community Centres



Cairnlea Community Hub

59 Carmody Drive, Cairnlea, VIC 3023



Delahey Community Centre

70 Copperfield Drive, Delahey, VIC 3037



Hunt Club Arts and Community Centre

775 Ballarat Road, Deer Park, VIC 3023



Sydenham Neighbourhood House

Level 1, 1 Station Street, Watergardens Town

Centre, Taylors Lakes, VIC 3038



West Sunshine Community Centre

25 Kermeen Street, Sunshine West, VIC 3020



Westvale Community Centre

45 Kings Road, St Albans, VIC 3021



Keilor Community Hub program spaces

704B Old Calder Highway, Keilor, VIC 3036



Brimbank Learning Futures

80B Harvester Road, Sunshine, VIC 3020

For further information contact:

✉

NHCCSocial@brimbank.vic.gov.au

Neighbourhood Houses provides a variety of safe

spaces for community to work, study, meet, and

connect. Sydenham Neighbourhood House has a

recording studio where a young Sudanese man, D Kuir,

or DK as he is known, can often be found laying down

tracks, rapping and singing.

‘I’ve been singing and rapping since I was 11 years

old. When I was about 17, I decided to take my music

seriously and so far, I’ve written over 400 songs. I try

to get to Sydenham every day to get in the zone and

record music.’

‘I’ve seen too many people I know go down the

wrong path with life. I’m using music to make a

better life,’ said DK.

Mohammed Isah who is the Neighbourhood House Unit

Coordinator is proud of the positive difference DK is

making to his life.

‘It’s great when we see a community member loving

what they do and really making the most of the spaces

on offer. DK really sticks out in my mind as someone

who was dedicated and determined to work at their

passion. The resources on offer to the community

can make a huge difference in the life course a young

person can take.’

Search for D Kuir on YouTube and you’ll see slick music

videos showing this young man living his best life.

Brimbank Council Meeting No. 637 - 10 September 2024

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Attachment 12.7.2

9249 4000

info@brimbank.vic.gov.au

PO Box 70, Sunshine, VIC 3020

• TTY dial

133 677

• Speak & Listen

1300 555 727

•

www.relayservice.gov.au

, then enter

03 9249 4000

www.facebook.com/brimbankcouncil

x.com/BrimbankCouncil

www.youtube.com/brimbankcitycouncil

Use Brimby, the online virtual assistant

brimbank.vic.gov.au

148 - 0724

Brimbank Council Meeting No. 637 - 10 September 2024

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Attachment 12.7.2

Creative Brimbank

Arts and Culture Unit

Annual Report Card 2023–2024

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Attachment 12.7.3

YO

U

N

G

,

B

L

A

K

&

D

E

A

D

LY

Young, Blak and Deadly is an ongoing career

development and mentoring program run in

partnership with independent artist, Lisa Maza

(Meriam/Yidindji/Dutch). Starting in 2021, the

program is for Blakfulla, Koori/e, Aboriginal and/

or Torres Strait Islander young people who want

to connect with passionate Blakfulla Creative

Professionals in the arts and media industries. The

program provides opportunities to learn new skills,

connect with other young, blak and deadly locals,

and learn about the creative industry from industry

leaders. Young, Blak and Deadly partners with

artists and arts organisations to work with Koorie

Engagement Support Officers (KESOS) and schools.

Our partners include Western Edge Youth Arts, LiveFM

and Copperfield College.

In our May 2024 session at Bowery Theatre, the

students learnt how to create and produce a radio

show which included interviewing professional artists.

“Working in the arts can be an exciting adventure as

well as a fulfilling career path. It takes creativity and

hard work and is such an important way to ensure our

stories continue to be told our way.” – Lisa Maza.

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Attachment 12.7.3

B

E

B

O

L

D

F

E

S

T

I

VA

L

The Be Bold Festival is Council’s community arts

festival. Held annually, it celebrates Brimbank’s diverse

communities through cultural practices, visual art,

theatre, music, dance, food and more. In 2023, the

festival engaged 2750 audience members and over 80

arts and cultural practitioners.

Programming highlights included the Welcome

to Country and boomerang throwing by Uncle Ian

Hunter, the inflatable dragon, Giant Lac Long Quan

(Vietnamese) which stood as a centrepiece on Errington

Reserve. The 20 year celebratory performance of the

Brimbank Multicultural Community Choir, roaming giant

puppet seagulls by Snuff Puppets, fluorescent painting

in the dark, several multicultural recipes shared in the

Cultural Kitchen including one from renowned chef and

local, Shane Delia (Middle Eastern), the Resonate youth

music showcase, Obang (Korean) a theatre installation

in the Bowery Theatre, the ever-popular St Albans

Foodie Tours, participatory family fun at the Kooky

Karnival and performances by L2R Dance, Tinikling

(Philippines) and Kud Dukat (Bosnia).

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Attachment 12.7.3

R

E

S

O

N

AT

E

–

B

O

W

E

RY

M

U

S

I

C

S

E

R

I

E

S

Resonate is a music development program that showcases

local musicians alongside internationally renowned acts to

build artists’ profiles and audiences.

Resonate was a two-part series curated by PBS DJ, MzRizk

bringing together a line-up of diverse musicians and

headlined by First Nations singer, Ziggy Ramo and soul

songstress, THNDO. Supports included nationally renowned

bands and MCs including Cool Out Sun, Bilalli, HALO Vocal

Ensemble, YARA and Immy Owusu. In 2024 the program

included a youth development initiative that enabled

five young musicians the chance to perform in this series

alongside mentors.

Resonate had a visual design component that saw young

people participate to develop neon lighting for the stage

design. Several other carefully curated elements came

together to build a world of music including foyer lighting

and performances, cultural catering, audience outreach,

documentation and the gallery exhibitions.

The 2024 program was funded with support from the

Victoria State Government’s On the Road Again program

delivered by Music Victoria to bring live music back

across the state.

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Attachment 12.7.3

M

U

R

A

L

P

R

O

J

E

C

T

S

As part of our ongoing mural program to transform public

spaces, six new murals have been painted across the

municipality. One of the highlights is a vibrant mural added

to complement the recently upgraded playground at

Monash Pizzey Reserve. These murals help prevent graffiti,

create a sense of place, and build community pride.

Artist Stephanie Cartledge, known for using eco-friendly

materials and bold geometric illustrations, created three

designs centred around the endangered growling grass

frog. To engage the local community, residents were

invited to vote for their favourite design through Your Say

Brimbank.

Stephanie’s work emphasises the beauty and significance

of the natural world, highlighting the important intersection

of art, community, and environmental awareness.

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Attachment 12.7.3

PUBLIC ART TRAIL MAPS

Creative Brimbank supports our vibrant, inclusive

and thriving arts ecosystem to enrich the lives of

community members and contribute to the identity and

wellbeing of Brimbank..

To continue the commitment to connecting the arts and

community, two Public Art Trail Maps have been created.

Using these maps, everyone is invited to explore Brimbank

by foot or bike and discover public art in their neighborhood.

The map aims to be an accessible physical guide to Council's

public art collection, engaging with the community,

encouraging participation, and attracting visitors from

outside the municipality to visit the area. To promote

the maps and the public artwork, a video series has been

created that profiles the artists behind the works, which

can be viewed on the Creative Brimbank YouTube channel,

Instagram, and Facebook profiles.

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Attachment 12.7.3

157,219

Visitors

for programs and events

2,378

Bookings

for regular activities, casual use,

events and functions

1,128

Attendees

at youth and FreeZa workshops

75

Workshops delivered

For youth and FreeZa

38

Young musicians

Supported as performers

8,578

Audience attendees

to performances or events

66

Performing arts events

by curated artists and hirers

4

performing artists or groups

supported by a Bowery Residency

828

Attendees

to art workshops and public programs

6

New murals

across the municipality

17

Artists

supported through the studio program

150

Attendees

at Aboriginal and Torres Strait

Islander programs and events

306

Workshops in

music, visual arts, circus, creative

writing and dance

6120

Attendees

at community arts workshops

and events

305,047

Attendees

at community led events

27

Events

Delivered by community safely

550

Volunteers

66,000

Hours

of volunteer time at events

546,000+

people reached through social media

(Facebook and Instagram)

254,500+

actions taken on our website

2,858

Facebook followers

1,877

Instagram followers

570

YouTube subscribers

2,874

Creative Brimbank subscribers

Brimbank Council Meeting No. 637 - 10 September 2024

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Attachment 12.7.3

9249 4000

info@brimbank.vic.gov.au

PO Box 70, Sunshine, VIC 3020

• TTY dial

133 677

• Speak & Listen

1300 555 727

•

www.relayservice.gov.au

, then enter

03 9249 4000

www.facebook.com/brimbankcouncil

x.com/BrimbankCouncil

www.youtube.com/brimbankcitycouncil

Use Brimby, the online virtual assistant

brimbank.vic.gov.au

151 -0724

Brimbank Council Meeting No. 637 - 10 September 2024

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Attachment 12.7.3

DRAFT

Library Services

Report Card

2023–2024

Imagine, Explore, Discover, Connect.

Brimbank Council Meeting No. 637 - 10 September 2024

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Attachment 12.7.4

;

The 2024 Brimbank Writers & Readers Festival

had an extremely successful opening night event

with Melburnian of the Year Kon Karapanagiotidis,

Hamed Allahyari, Norni Bero and Jaclyn Crupi talking

about family, heritage, food, and connection. “

” – Natalie

- Diane

;

Training of Brimbank Libraries staff in Auslan has

continued over the 23/24 year. An additional 17 staff

have gone on to complete Level 2 Training. Staff at St

Albans Library were able to put their Auslan training

into practice during a grade 3 and 4 school visit to the

library. After being asked to wear a listening device

by the teacher to support one of the students with

their hearing, the staff member made eye contact

with the young student and in Auslan, introduced

herself and asked the students’ name. The student’s

eyes lit up as he signed his name in response. Staff

were able to support the student throughout the

visit, helping them to browse the collection, borrow

items and importantly, feel included. Staff observed

that the student, who was noticeably overwhelmed

at the beginning of the session, had immediately

relaxed when connecting with staff through Auslan,

and left the session beaming after waving and giving

the thumbs up to staff. Staff at another Brimbank

Libraries branch were also able to support a family

attending an early year’s science program ‘Little

Scientist Club’. The staff noticed the mother and son

signing together and were able to sign with the family

through the 4-week program. The Auslan Training

initiative was presented at the 2024 National ALIA

Conference in Adelaide and inspired many library

services to consider Auslan training for their staff.

Customer Visits

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Attachment 12.7.4

;

“

”. - Jennifer

Library staff really do change lives and are the most

invaluable resource in supporting customers. 9,731

room bookings were recorded across Deer Park and

Sunshine Libraries highlighting the value of our

spaces for library customers, and 960 digital inclusion

and job search support programs and sessions were

delivered, assisting 2399 individuals.

;

The inaugural five-week accessibility program for all

abilities has concluded. Participants were excited to

be involved in the program and learn new things, and

it has provided carers the opportunity to network

and learn from each another. It allowed carers and

participants to meet and make new friends, as well

as making participants feel more welcome and

comfortable in library spaces.

;

At Sydenham Libraries, our recent ‘Loud in the Library’

event proved to be a resounding success, drawing in a

diverse group of young people. Among the attendees

were three Year 12 students who discovered the

event through their school newsletter. One of these

students, a dedicated library enthusiast, shared an

inspiring insight. She proudly told our staff that she

subscribes to the library’s Eventbrite page, keeping

her friends informed about youth programs. With

a grin, she added, “There’s free food, why wouldn’t

you?”

The event also showcased the thoughtfulness of

our younger patrons. A Year 7 student impressed the

staff with his consideration for his friends’ dietary

needs. Before indulging in the provided refreshments,

he approached the staff to ensure there were pizza

options suitable for his friends - one who couldn’t eat

pork and another who avoided beef. Once assured

of his friends’ well-being, this young man’s curiosity

turned to library memberships, eagerly inquiring

about the process and benefits.

The impact of ‘Loud in the Library’ extended beyond

the event itself. The following week, we were

delighted to see four young men who had attended

the event return, this time bringing adults with them

to sign up for library memberships. This heartening

turn of events demonstrated the power of engaging

youth programs in fostering a love for libraries and

reading among our community’s younger generation.

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Attachment 12.7.4

;

As part of the Victorian government funded Seniors

Digital Literacy Project, library staff facilitated

weekly eHelp Drop-in sessions at Sunshine Library.

Sessions supported community members to grow

their skills and self-confidence in using technology.

One customer was very eager to learn about iPads

and tablets and what kind of device would suit his

needs. The customer found a tablet on sale that had

the features he was interested in, and he brought it

in to the next session. Staff helped him with setup

and introduced basics such as how to turn the device

on, swiping and tapping and using the on-screen

keyboard. The customer soon progressed to email,

internet and downloading apps. Over the following

weeks, the customer was excited to discover

entertainment though streaming TV services,

reading eBooks, listening to music, checking cinema

websites for current screenings, as well as accessing

library mobile print services. Months later the same

customer visited the library and staff could see that

his understanding and skills had improved greatly.

The customer was able to comfortably navigate his

tablet and had independently downloaded new apps

and customised his device. 800 community members

participated in the Seniors Digital Literacy project in

2023.

;

Since its launch in September 2023, the Deer Park

Makerspace has become a vibrant hub of creativity

and community engagement. With 90 programs

hosted and 421 attendees, it has quickly established

itself as a popular service. The space has also

cultivated a dedicated following, with 185 community

members achieving “Super User” status and an

impressive 120 booked visits outside of regular class

hours.

The impact of the Makerspace extends far beyond

numbers. Many participants have reported significant

improvements in their mental health. One customer

with a disability shared how the space has become

a positive outlet, encouraging them to leave home

and explore their creativity. Another attendee,

visiting from a rehab center at Sunshine Hospital,

expressed appreciation for the change of pace and

the welcoming library environment during a mug

design class.

The Makerspace’s appeal has even reached beyond

our borders when a visitor from the UK discovered the

space while planning her trip via Eventbrite. Intrigued

by the offerings, she booked a session for the ‘Upcycle

Your Clothes’ workshop before leaving the UK and

brought along one of her grandmother’s vintage

dresses, which she transformed into a cute scrunchie

during the session, creating a unique memento of her

visit.

These stories underscore the Makerspace’s role

not just as a creative outlet, but as a catalyst for

personal growth, rehabilitation, and cross-cultural

connections. It has quickly become an integral part

of the community, offering diverse opportunities for

learning, socializing, and self-expression.

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Attachment 12.7.4

;

Recognizing Brimbank residents’ vulnerability to

the heat island effect, all Brimbank Library branches

served as cooling refuges during extreme heat. To

extend support beyond operating hours, Libraries

in collaboration with other council units created

HeatSafe packs, which included a microfibre

neck towel and a postcard with heatwave safety

information and emergency contacts. During the

project, 327 HeatSafe kits were distributed on days

over 30 degrees. Staff walked around the library

on hot days offering neck towels and support

information to those impacted by the heat. Taxi

vouchers were also made available to community

members who were walking home or catching public

transport in extreme heat. The impact this project had

on the community was substantial and noted through

several stories captured throughout the project. Many

community members of all ages expressed happiness

and relief when using the neck towels. Library staff

noted that the community were impacted by the

heat in various ways, such as walking to the library,

waiting for public transport after school, and having

no air conditioning at home. The library provided a

safe space for them to cool down, access the towels,

cool water and obtain important information to

support their health in extreme heat. Library staff

recorded kit distribution details to evaluate the project

and plan future initiatives aimed at supporting the

community’s health and wellbeing as the community

adapts to the effects of the changing climate. Over

the Labour Day long weekend, the Library team

extended Sunshine Library opening hours to support

the community with a cool space on Sunday. Staff

also opened both the Sydenham and Sunshine

Library on the Monday public holiday to serve as a

haven from the heat. The CEO publically thanked the

Library Staff in her Staff news update: “Thank you to

all the [library] staff who were involved in managing

this over the weekend and helped our community

throughout the heatwave.”

;

School holiday programs are growing in popularity,

with over 1000 participants attending. Each

program features a diverse range of engaging

activities that cater to various interests and ages,

in a safe and welcoming learning environment for

all participants. Activities have included Science

Shows, Author and Illustrator workshops, STEAM

learning and much more.

A record number of participants joined this years

BIG Summer Read, a competition designed to keep

children reading across the summer holidays to keep

up their literacy skills. Nearly a thousand children (989

to be exact) registered for the summer program, with

287 of them actively participating in various literacy

support activities. These engaging programs kept

families involved in learning throughout the summer

break. The diverse offerings included tech taster

sessions, live action role-playing games, and STEAM

based activities, providing a rich mix of educational

experiences.

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Attachment 12.7.4

;

St Albans Library is fortunate to partner with St

Albans Secondary College for the Reading Buddies

program to enable children a safe space to practice

their reading. Fourteen high school students

volunteered time out of their busy schedules on

Tuesday afternoons to listen to local children reading

aloud. Throughout 2023/24, a total of 117 children

visited the library and practiced their reading 413

times. Over 700 books were enjoyed with one prep

child reading 75 individual books, followed closely

by a grade 2 child with 74 books. It was a pleasure

watching the children’s literacy skills improve, as

well as their confidence. The program is also an

opportunity for the high school students to gain

confidence and do some volunteering in their local

community. The coordinator at St Albans Secondary

College said “THANK YOU! This program is just

outstanding and my students write passionately

about it when applying for tertiary scholarships.

They get as much out of it as the children.” One

of the students regretfully had to scale back her

volunteering because of Year 12 committments but

had this to say “I would like to formally thank you

for giving me the opportunity to join the Reading

Buddies program last year. It was truly a fantastic

journey. It’s more than just “helping the kids’ enhance

their reading skills... During those times, we’re able to

connect to them, get to know them a bit with their

fun little stories when a character in their storybook

triggers a memory in their minds. It’s also fulfilling

to witness their progress as they become more and

more confident with reading (especially when they

can finally choose any book that catches their eye!)

So, thank you. For opening this door for me. For

guiding us when the kids are being a bit naughty. And

for ensuring a safe space for everyone to grow.”

;

The Public Libraries Victoria (PLV) Sustainability

Portal, launched in February 2024, has been a game

changer for our community, supporting both library

professionals and local residents in their sustainability

efforts. The portal, which has been featured in

respected news and journal articles such as INCITE

(Australian Library & Information Association), ALIA

Green, Public Libraries Victoria News, and ENSULIB

(International Federation of Libraries Association),

offers comprehensive resources aligned with the

United Nations Sustainable Development Goals

(SDGs). Highlighting sustainable initiatives like

seed libraries and e-waste bins, the portal has

significantly raised environmental awareness and

action within our city and has supported library

staff to begin having conversations with community

about the SDGs. Brimbank Libraries are represented

on an interactive map for having the following

sustainable initiatives accessible to the community

in their spaces: Seed Library, Library of Things,

E-Waste Bins and Energy Saver Kits. The website

was created by a Brimbank Libraries staff member,

who has since been awarded a scholarship through

the State Library Victoria. The scholarship will be

undertaken during 2024 and focuses on developing a

Sustainable Development framework and Sustainable

Accreditation program intended for Victorian Public

Libraries. The Sustainability Portal was presented at

the ALIA 2024 National Conference. By celebrating

an industry culture and focus on sustainability, the

PLV Sustainability Portal is proving to be an invaluable

asset to our community’s environmental and social

well-being.



https://www.plv.org.au/sustainability-home/

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Attachment 12.7.4

;

St Albans Library hosted local band ‘The Hackkets’, a

music group made up of members with and without

disability, with three of them being Brimbank locals.

Guitarist and singer Peter is a stalwart regular at our

libraries! Initially a cover band, they have branched

out into writing their own songs, culminating in their

recent album ‘So Faar, So Good’.

Locally acclaimed musician Harrie remarked “they’ve

sold more merch tonight than I ever have!” Another

listener said “they’ve got clear roots in Beatles and

Creedence Clearwater Revival, but they’ve totally

owned it and made it their own.” Staff member

Jennifer added, “Peter came into the library on

Saturday and we had a good chat about the show, he

was stoked.” Peter said “

.

;

Brimbank Libraries has introduced access to eBooks

via cloudLibrary. This new digital lending platform

replaces our previous Libby platform, and offers

enhanced features allowing the community to

discover and access more eBooks than ever before.

cloudLibrary allows community members access to

over 65,000 eBook titles, compared to around 8,000

we had available via Libby. This increased range of

titles is thanks to the platform supporting libraries

to share access to their collections, meaning we can

offer this increased collection within a similar financial

investment to Libby.

;

Starting in mid-2023 all five branches of Brimbank

Libraries improved access to Junior Non-Fiction

materials, separating these titles from the Adult

collection. Junior Non-Fiction collections have been

housed close to other Junior materials, and have

enhanced child-friendly signage within the collection.

The move improves the visibility of the collection,

encourages children to explore its contents for

general curiosity – not just for school projects, and

increases exposure to topics that celebrate diversity,

and celebrate our cultural heritage.

Since implementing the change, there has been a

35% increase in the number of loans of Junior non

fiction materials.

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Attachment 12.7.4

WELCOMING SPACES

;

In response to community feedback, Keilor Library

has had a new shade sail installed in its outdoor

learning lounge. The addition of the shade sail not

only offers a cool respite for visitors but also opens

up exciting possibilities for expanded programs and

activities, fostering a dynamic learning environment

for all community members. So far the area has

been utilised for a children’s petting zoo, gardening

workshops and bee keeping sessions.

;

The Keilor Library has recently installed enhanced

picture book shelving, resulting in a more open and

inviting environment for community members to sit

and relax. This newly designed space is also utilised

for the delivery of children’s programs and now

features improved accessibility for individuals with

prams and wheelchairs.

;

In response to community feedback, the St Albans

library has introduced a new gaming area to better

meet the interests and recreational needs of its

customers. This initiative reflects the library’s

commitment to adapting its services based on the

evolving preferences of the community.

The gaming area is equipped with various gaming

consoles and an array of popular video games,

designed to appeal to a wide range of age groups

and interests. This addition aims to foster a sense of

community, encourage social interaction, and provide

a modern recreational space within the library.

The response to the new gaming area has been

overwhelmingly positive, with many community

members expressing their enthusiasm and

appreciation. The introduction of this space is

expected to attract a more diverse audience to the

library, enhancing its role as a dynamic and inclusive

community hub.

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Attachment 12.7.4

;

Brimbank Libraries have recorded a strong finish

to the 2023/24 financial year. Loans of the library

collection have increased from the same time last

year across all 5 library branches.

In the last 12 months, libraries have made

improvements to increase access to our junior

non-fiction collections – this has led to an overall

35% increase in the usage of junior non-fiction

across all libraries – with Sydenham Library

recording a 62% increase.

The recent introduction of cloudLibrary has seen an

increase in usage of eBooks compared to the previous

Libby platform – around 87% from April.

Top Circulating Titles for the financial year are

dominated by children’s authors Aaron Blabey and

Anh Do – taking 10 out of the 15 top spots.

;

Brimbank Libraries is committed to supporting work

experience opportunities for secondary and tertiary

students requiring placement to complete their

course. In 2023-2024 libraries supported 25 paid and

non-paid placements across the five library locations.

Library Industry placements provide students an

opportunity to put into practice theory learnt in their

course, positively support the library profession whilst

also offering the libraries unit opportunity to recruit

outstanding library professionals when vacancies

exist. Placements for Secondary, Victorian Certificate

of Applied Learning (VCAL), Duke of Edinburgh and

special needs students are designed to build positive

relationships and build on student strengths.

;

A proud parent visited the library to collect a

certificate on behalf of his son who completed the

“1000 Books Before School” challenge. The family’s

joy was palpable as they shared how this program

had transformed their young reader. Thanks to the

library’s initiative, their son had developed a deep love

for reading, a gift that will undoubtedly serve him well

throughout his life.

To commemorate this milestone, the parents

organized a celebration - they threw a literature

space themed party for him, blending his newfound

passion for reading with the wonders of outer space.

This creative fusion not only marked the child’s

accomplishment but also highlighted how the library’s

programs can spark imagination and foster a lifelong

love of learning.

The family’s gratitude and enthusiasm serve

as a heartwarming testament to the profound

impact libraries can have on young minds and the

communities they serve.

Top circulating titles for 2023-2024 financial year

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Attachment 12.7.4

;

Deer Park Library celebrated its 30th Birthday on

Thursday 28 September 2023 with 1245 people

through the library doors. Many VIPs also attended,

including past Deer Park Library team members,

Brimbank Mayor, Councillors, the Members of

Parliament for Kororoit and Western Metropolitan

Region, Brimbank Leadership Team and Public

Libraries Victoria CEO.

Family fun activities were held across the afternoon

including a magic show, sausage sizzle, party games

and face painting. Three birthday competitions were

held, with 718 entries collected.

The newly developed Maker Space was officially

opened and 35 people toured the space, all eager to

come back and be inducted as super users.

;

On Wednesday 20 March 2024 Community members,

Council staff and Councillors celebrated Bakandji artist

and Brimbank local Aunty Jeanie Mason and her latest

public artwork ‘Knowledge and Wisdom’. The large

mural, which was painted over several weeks, depicts

a large central figure surrounded by young people,

flora, fauna and the river coursing a path across the

wall. The artwork, located in the children’s area of

Sunshine Library, captures the essence of public

libraries: spaces for sharing and learning knowledge

and wisdom through storytelling and access to

reputable information. Aunty Jeanie generously led a

hand-printing workshop at the event that saw both

young and old pressing their handprint onto the wall

in paint. The mural, which is housed in the library

storytelling space, will serve as a point of creativity

and inspire young families and community members

for decades to come.

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Attachment 12.7.4

;

In response to community feedback, the library

purchased three sleeper lounges designed to provide

a safe, comfortable space for rest and relaxation.

These lounges have been placed in quiet areas of

the library to support people who require a safe

space to rest. The initiative was developed to

address the immediate needs of those experiencing

homelessness. By offering these spaces, the library

not only provides temporary relief but also fosters

a sense of dignity and belonging. Alongside the

sleeper lounges, staff are able to provide information

about local support services, including housing

advice and mental health resources, to offer a holistic

approach to community wellbeing. This initiative

underscores the libraries commitment to inclusivity

and the libraries role as a sanctuary for all members

of the community.

;

Brimbank Libraries Management System (Koha)

upgrade came with several enhancements for

community members, including:

•

Digital Barcodes for customers

- Customers

are now able to log in to their library accounts to

generate a digital library barcode, which can be

added to their phones using apps such as Google

Wallet, and used at library information desks &

self-serve kiosks.

•

Improved opt-out of automatic renewals

- Customers can now fully opt in or out of

automatic renewals.

•

Improved Holds

- Customers can now go online

to change the pickup location of holds of their

reservations via their own device.

•

Improved Online Memberships

- Customers

can join online and instantly receive a fully

functioning digital membership that allows

immediate access to online resources.

•

Translated Notices

– Customers will now

be able to choose their language of choice to

receive their notices.

;

A delighted mother shared a heartwarming story

about her young daughter’s love for Sydenham

Library. The little girl, captivated by her experience

at the library’s Little Scientist Club program, now

refers to it as the “science library.” This early exposure

to scientific concepts has sparked a keen interest,

making library visits a much-anticipated activity.

The child’s enthusiasm doesn’t stop at science

programs. She’s also formed a special bond with the

library’s plush resident - a stuffed dog that “lives”

in the children’s area. This cuddly companion has

become an integral part of her library experience,

adding a touch of comfort to her visits.

This illustrates how early positive experiences in

libraries can foster a lasting love for learning and

libraries for young customers.

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Attachment 12.7.4

;

Friday night at the library transformed into a lively

scene as “Game On” kicked off with karaoke from 5-8

PM. The space buzzed with energy as over 30 young

people gathered, filling the air with music, laughter,

and the aroma of pizza.

As the evening progressed, the room became a

melting pot of musical genres and generations. Young

voices belted out tunes ranging from classic rock to

contemporary pop.

The event drew a mix of familiar faces and

newcomers. Many Deer Park regulars, excited to

stay after hours, made up a large portion of the

crowd. Two shy newcomers, who had heard about

the event from Copperfield College found their own

ways to enjoy the night without stepping up to the

microphone. They engaged in spirited Mario Kart

battle on the Nintendo Switch, tackled giant Connect

4, and even carved out a quiet corner to watch videos

together, taking advantage of the library’s WiFi.

The atmosphere was one of inclusivity and

encouragement, coupled with a sense of safety and

belonging that permeated the space. The young

attendees appreciated having a space created just for

them, with minimal adult presence.

Watching these young people interact – sweet,

hilarious, and genuinely good company – reinforced

the value of events like these. It wasn’t just about

the karaoke or the games; it was about creating a

space where they could be themselves, express their

passions, and connect with one another in a safe and

welcoming environmen

Library New members

Visits

Loans

Help Desk

Program

Attendance

Deer Park

2275

S

521

122,574

S

16,363

184,186

S

36,449

45954

T

2,065

15,519

Keilor

997

S

507

36,334

S

3,322

74,702

S

13,526

12,781

T

253

3,931

St Albans

2,045

S

631

132,893

S

7,459

110,867

S

10,177

44,387

S

897

14,012

Sunshine

5,191

S

837

378,158

S

75,308

258,229

S

50,983

44,555

T

11,355

14,516

Sydenham

2,060

S

420

151,954

S

13,903

176,251

S

53,195

30,282

T

149

12,198

Online

1,789

S

195

1620,168

T

141,565

658399

S

122,205

N/A

3,565

Count does not include multiple people in a household

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Attachment 12.7.4

Physical loans

843,995

S

202,090

Digital loans (eBooks, audiobooks and ePress)

624,787

S

529,383

Total loans – Physical and Digital

1,468,782

S

731,473

Total loans of Community Language Collections

53,539

S

8,594

Most popular book and ebook

Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros

Most popular picture book

The Speedy Sloth by Rebecca Young

New library resources added to the collection

94,535

S

38,287

Total Number of physical resources in the collection

178,177

T

678

Total Number of electronic resources in the collection

48,185

S

12,489

Library collections in community languages

19

0

New Library members

12,613

S

2,954

New Online members

1,789

S

195

Total Library members

129,082

S

11,079

Facebook subscribers

4351

S

205

Instagram Followers

1986

S

159

YouTube subscribers

741

S

66

Visits to the five library branches

821,913

S

116,355

Visits to the Online Library

1,316,005

T

304,163

Visit to Library Catalogue

1,142,897

S

141,106

Total visits

3,280,815

T

46,702

Help desk support

190,884

S

+102,209

PC Sessions

85,959

S

+35,389

Programs held

3565

S

123

Attendance library programs (front facing)

60176

S

3070

Early Years 0-5

27599

S

1143

Children 6 - 12

16,949

S

256

Young People 13 - 25

5518

S

305

Adult

5,701

S

521

Seniors

1370

S

708

Attendance Brimbank Writers & Readers Festival

560

S

23

Views of online programs

36,881

T

12,280

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Attachment 12.7.4

Deer Park Library,

4 Neale Road Deer Park

Keilor Library,

704B Old Calder Highway, Keilor

St Albans Library,

71A Alfrieda Street, St Albans

Sunshine Library,

301 Hampshire Road, Sunshine

Sydenham Library,

1 Station Street, Taylors Lakes

Online Library

brimbanklibraries.vic.gov.au

facebook.com/BrimbankLibraries

instagram.com/brimbanklibraries/

youtube.com/@BrimbankLibrariesAUS

Discover Learning in Brimbank

learning.brimbank.vic.gov.au

175 - 0724

Use Brimby, the online virtual assistant

brimbank.vic.gov.au

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Attachment 12.7.4