BRIEFS

THE WATER’S FINE

Central Highlands Water has passed a biannual Health Department quality audit of its drinking water. Last month’s two-day audit examined treatment processes, laboratory testing, employee training and computerised-monitoring equipment, asset management and burst water-main procedures. The audit is compulsory for all water corporations.

KINDER SPOTS OPEN FOR 2015

Kindergarten applications for 2015 will be available online from March 26. Children must be aged four by April 30 next year to be eligible for a four-year-old kindergarten place. Application forms are also at Melton and Caroline Springs civic centres and Melton library. Completed forms and a $20 application fee should be lodged as soon as possible. Details: melton.vic.gov.au or
9747 7200.

SAFETY CHECKS ON POOLS, SPAS

Melton council is auditing pools and spas to identify any that may not have a permit or safety barriers. All swimming pools and spas deeper than 30 centimetres must have a permit and compliant safety barrier. If a property is identified as being non-compliant, a letter from the council will be sent to the owner with a proposed date and time for a council officer to visit and ensure the pool and barrier meet the current laws. “Every year there are tragedies, usually involving children, which result from backyard swimming pools not being properly fenced,” mayor Bob Turner said. “Through this proactive approach we are determined to reduce the risk, in particular to small children, and provide a safer environment for all.” Details: 9747 7200.

SHIPPING CONTAINERS BURGLED

Two shipping containers were broken in to in Rockbank and Melton West on the March 1-2 weekend. Bolt-cutters were used to cut the locks on both containers. Thieves took power tools from both sites. On the same weekend, seven external lights and windows were broken at Brookside College in Federation Way, Caroline Springs, after offenders threw rocks at them. In the early hours of March 5, a man was disturbed trying to steal items from cars in Bulmans Road, Melton West. A kitchen sink and cupboards were stolen from a house under construction in Plumpton between February 28 and March 3. Information to Melton police: 9747 7999