Transport

A safer Darebin community
Room to Move is Darebin’s response to requests from our local schools, businesses and residents for support with social distancing. This package of initiatives is designed make it easier to safely move around our public spaces on foot and by bike as we navigate changes to our daily lives.

In Darebin we’ve seen a surge in bike riding and walking leading to increased demand for safe places to ride and walk. When restrictions were previously rolled back, we also heard new needs for additional outdoor trading space for cafes and other businesses; we need to prepare for this when restrictions ease once again. Similarly, when schools last returned to face-to-face learning we heard about new challenges with social distancing at pick-up and drop-off times, something we are keen to assist with in future.

Temporary measures to meet changing needs
We are operating under unprecedented circumstances in Victoria and it’s important that City of Darebin responds urgently to community needs. There are changes that we will trial in some of Darebin’s streets that will ensure greater safety along footpaths, streets and roads in coming months.

• Schools – In response to requests from school and parents, these are temporary changes to streets and paths near schools to create space that will assist safe social distancing at pick-up and drop-off times for carers, staff and children
• Businesses – In response to requests to help local businesses to safely manage queues and trading space to allow capacity for more customers and goods. See Extended Outdoor Dining for details.
• Bike infrastructure – implementation of trial protected “pop up” bike lanes along selected key cycling corridors to provide safe alternatives to public transport for local and essential travel
• Advocacy – advocate to the Minister for Roads and Minister for Transport Infrastructure and the Minister for Public Transport for the implementation of pandemic response items

Further Information
Ph: 8470 8683
Email: transport@darebin.vic.gov.au

Updates from the Darebin Sustainable Transport Team
You can sign up for updates and opportunities to comment on transport projects/programs being managed by Darebin City Council by using the form here.

These include:

• Grange Road, Alphington (completed in 2018)
• High Street, Reservoir (completed in 2020)
• Bell Street, Preston
• Cramer Street, Preston
• Murray Road, Preston
• Oakover Road, Preston

Level crossing removals are funded and delivered by the State Government and its agency the Level Crossing Removal Project (LXRP).

What is Council's role in these projects?

 Council's role in these projects is as a stakeholder, not a decision maker.

We advocate for the best outcome for the community and local businesses to:

• Ensure an excellent design outcome is achieved, providing new open space and safer pedestrian and cycling pathways.
• Protect local neighbourhoods, heritage and trees.
• Minimise disruption throughout the construction period.
• Ensure that adequate parking arrangements and traffic management are in place during the construction period.

Preston Reconnected

Darebin Council's advocacy position for the Bell-Preston Level Crossing Removal Project is outlined in the Preston Reconnected document. It contains Council's design, movement and delivery objectives.

Preston Reconnected was endorsed by Council during the 20 July 2020 Council Meeting.

Questions and Further Information

If you have a question about design and construction contact the Level Crossing Removal Project:

Email: contact@levelcrossings.vic.gov.au
Contact: 1800 105 105

For project updates and to sign up for email updates, visit www.levelcrossings.vic.gov.au

Darebin Love Bikes e-newsletter
Sign up here to be the first to know about Darebin bike programs and news. View this year's editions here: February, March, May, June

Bike Skills Workshops
Do you already know how to ride a bike, but need a skills or confidence boost? Our regular low-cost workshops include:   

• On-road Bike Confidence
• Basic Bike Maintenance

For more information and  bookings see our Eventbrite registration page. CURRENTLY ON HOLD

One-on-One Bike Skills Training
If you need more personalised training we also offer one-on-one training for all residents of all ages throughout the year. Our friendly instructors begin with the absolute basics like how to walk along with a bike, get on and off gracefully, start off, pedal and stop safely. Recipients of Centrelink payments or in social housing may be eligible to participate in this training program at no cost.

For more information and bookings see our Eventbrite registration page. CURRENTLY ON HOLD

Public Bike Repair Stations
Our public Bike Repair Stations allow you to easily complete on-the-go repairs on your bike on any day and at any time. The following repair stations include a pump and basic tools to help you complete minor maintenance on your bike: 

• Darebin Parklands - eastern end of Separation Street, Alphington 
• Merri Creek - near St George’s Road intersection, Westgarth 
• Northcote Aquatic and Recreation Centre - 180 Victoria Road, Northcote 
• All Nations Park, Skate Park - Dennis Street, Northcote
• Opposite Northcote Town Hall - High Street, Northcote
• Cnr Miller Street and the Northern Pipe Trail (St Georges Rd shared path), Thornbury 
• Preston Library - 266 Gower Street, Preston
• Reservoir Community and Learning Centre, 23 Edwardes Street, Reservoir

Not sure how to use a bike repair station? Find help online at www.bikefixation.com/help.

TravelSmart Maps
Our TravelSmart Map shows on-road bike lanes, off-road riding trails and safe bike-riding routes, as well as walking paths, public toilets, water fountains and public transport information, including tram and train maps. 

• Darebin TravelSmart Map - Page 1 - Map (9MB)
• Darebin TravelSmart Map - Page 2 - Information (2MB)

You can collect a printed and folded, pocket-sized copy from one of our Customer Service Centres or Libraries.

If you're after a TravelSmart Map for other parts of Melbourne and Victoria, see the VicRoads website.

Shared Paths
We have multi-user paths for people of all ages and paces including pedestrians, wheelchair users, joggers, children on scooters or roller-skates, families with prams and dog walkers. 

Read more about Darebin's shared paths by clicking this link.

Shimmy Bike Routes
With directional signage, road markings and maps, it's easy to shimmy your way through Darebin's back streets and avoid the main roads.  We have a map of the new Great Western Shimmy route, as well as a map of our Other Shimmy routes. You can view all of Darebin’s shimmy routes together in this google map.

Bike Parking Hoops
Do your ride to your favourite shop or cafe and find it hard to park your bike? Do you wish there was more bike parking near your local school or community centre?  If so, please email darebinlovesbikes@darebin.vic.gov.au If you own or manage a local business or organisation and would like more bike parking for your customers and clients, please complete our Bicycle Hoops Request online form.

Bike Parking at Train Stations
There are Parkiteer bike cages at Preston and Reservoir train stations. Parkiteers offer free, secure, undercover bike parking right near the station entrance. Access is available 24 hours by security pass which requires a $50 refundable deposit. Sign up at Parkiteer or call 1300 546 526. 

Free Portable Bike Parking Hire 
Local schools and community organisations can hire our portable bike rack at no cost. It can accommodate up to 10 bikes, fits in the back of a car and is easy to set up. It's a great way to encourage visitors to ride to your event. Email darebinlovesbikes@darebin.vic.gov.au for more information.

St Georges Road Bike Counter
In partnership with the Darebin Bicycle User Group, we have installed a solar powered bike counter on the St Georges Road shared path. Sensors in the path detect when a bike passes and the counter shows how many people have ridden past that day, and for the year to date. Over 500,000 bikes are counted on the path every year, and this number is growing. View the latest data here.

Local Bike Shops and Mechanics

• 99 Bikes, 1 Bell Street, Preston
• Bikes de Ver 364 Heidelberg Rd, Fairfield
• Culture of Cycling 326 Darebin Road, Fairfield 
• Finnigan's 507 High Street, Northcote
• North Fitzroy Cycles 256 St Georges Rd, Fitzroy North 
• Pedal Cyclery 410 Gilbert Rd, Preston
• Rays Bikes 545 High St, Preston
• White's Bikes 309 St Georges Rd, Fitzroy North

Community bike groups

• Darebin Bicycle User Group - a local group that campaigns for better cycling conditions and organises rides to suit cyclists of all abilities.
• Wecycle and BikeLinx - two volunteer groups that recycle and re-condition and re-home bikes with people who need them.

Useful resources

• Map your route - Strava, Map my Ride, Endomondo
• Be Smart in the Sun - SunSmart app
• Check the weather - Bureau of Meteorology
• Find your way - Google Maps app
• Find a place to play - Playground finder
• Stop for lunch - Zomato app
• When nature calls - Public toilet finder
• City riding - Melbourne bike share
• Stay hydrated - Find a water tap
• Repair your bike - Easy bike repair app 

Related Links

• Darebin Cycling Strategy 2013-18
• How we support active travel to school
• St Georges Road Shared Path Safety Audit - 2013
• Victorian Bike Laws 

Further Information
Ph: 8470 8683
Email: darebinlovesbikes@darebin.vic.gov.au

Updates from the Darebin Sustainable Transport Team
You can sign up for updates and opportunities to comment on transport projects/programs being managed by Darebin City Council by using the form here. 

Darebin Walking Strategy 2018-2028
A quality walking environment is critical to the success of a sustainable, functional and liveable place to be. The Darebin Walking Strategy 2018-2028 was adopted by Council on November 8th 2018, and provides an evidence-based approach to kick-start the long term investment into walking in Darebin. This important Strategy supports important social, environmental and economic outcomes, specifically those relating to wellbeing, social inclusion, and sustainability. For more information, feel free to view or download the Darebin Walking Strategy 2018-2028, or contact us for more details. 

Walking maps
The Merri Creek Trail map provides information about the local walking and cycling routes, leisure facilities, public transport and parklands along the Merri Creek shared path.

Our TravelSmart Map shows bike-riding routes, walking paths, public transport information including tram and train maps, public toilets and water fountains to help you get around. 

• Darebin TravelSmart Map - Page 1 - Melway Map (9MB)
• Darebin TravelSmart Map - Page 2 - Information (2MB)

You can collect a printed and folded, pocket-sized copy from one of our Customer Service Centres or Libraries.

If you're after a TravelSmart Map for other parts of Melbourne and Victoria, please check out the VicRoads website.

Walking Groups
We support many Walking Groups across the municipality. These groups are run by volunteers and aim to get more people out and about walking in a friendly environment. 

A Walking Action Group may also interest you - these groups help improve the local environment for walking. Visit Victoria Walks for more information.

Visit our Community Directory for a listing of Walking Groups. Contact details for some of these groups are also provided in our TravelSmart Map (above). To create your own group, contact us for more details.

Improving Our Paths
We are currently developing a Principal Pedestrian Network which will prioritise and guide the way the we upgrade our walking infrastructure. We also commissioned the St Georges Road Share Path Safety Audit in 2013 which has highlighted areas for us to improve, and also supports us when advocating to other stakeholders that are responsible for the path and its surrounds. 

Updates from the Darebin Sustainable Transport Team
You can sign up for updates on transport projects and programs being managed by Darebin City Council by using the form here.

In Darebin we have the Mernda and Hurstbridge train lines, the 11 and 86 tram lines, and many bus routes.

To obtain information about a particular service use the Public Transport Victoria website – it is excellent for planning trips and obtaining route and timetable information.

A detailed map of all the public transport options can be viewed here.

Alternatively you can call PTV on 1800 800 007 for timetables and route planning advice. For TTY, call (03) 9619 2727.

Information in other languages
To receive public transport information in other languages, you can call the translated phone numbers listed on the Public Transport Victoria website.

Tips for using Myki
Myki is Melbourne's public transport ticketing system. Myki passes are used to travel on all trains, trams and buses in Zones 1 and 2.

For information about using Myki including where to buy one, which type to choose, topping up, touching on and off or registering your Myki visit: Public Transport Victoria or call 1800 800 007.

TravelSmart Maps
Our TravelSmart Map shows bike-riding routes, walking paths, public transport information including tram and train maps, public toilets and water fountains to help you get around. 

• Darebin TravelSmart Map - Page 1 - Melway Map (9MB)
• Darebin TravelSmart Map - Page 2 - Information (2MB)

You can collect a printed and folded, pocket-sized copy from one of our Customer Service Centres or Libraries.

If you're after a TravelSmart Map for other parts of Melbourne and Victoria, please check out the VicRoads website.

Reservoir Level Crossing Removal Project
Work has begun on the Reservoir level crossing removal project, which includes construction of a new station and elevated rail. The removal of this level crossing and construction of a new station precinct is an important investment in our community and will create a more vibrant, connected, and safer public space for Reservoir. Please refer to the below FAQs for more information about the project.

1. Who do I contact if I have questions on the Reservoir level crossing removal project?
The Reservoir level crossing removal project is funded and delivered by the State Government.
For all enquiries relating to design and construction, contact the Level Crossing Removal Authority via email contact@levelcrossings.vic.gov.au or call 1800 105 105.
For project updates and to sign up for email updates, visit www.levelcrossings.vic.gov.au/projects/high-street-reservoir
For service disruption updates visit www.levelcrossings.vic.gov.au/disruptions. Plan your travel on public transport using the PTV Journey Planner.
For questions about changes to parking, call Darebin City Council on (03) 8470 8888.

2. What is Darebin City Council’s role in the Reservoir level crossing removal project?
Level Crossing Removal projects are State Government projects and Council's role in these projects is as a stakeholder, not a decision maker. Council is advocating for the best outcome for the community to minimise disruption throughout construction, achieve better design outcomes for our community, and protect trees and heritage as much as possible. Council officers are regularly visiting local businesses and listening to their feedback. We are advocating on behalf of businesses and communicating their needs to the Level Crossing Removal Authority (LXRA) to minimise disruption throughout the construction period.

3. How will parking be affected at Reservoir Station?
Reservoir station will be LXRA’s major construction site, accommodating temporary station buildings, site facilities, and construction equipment. All commuter carparks at Reservoir Station will be closed from 15 January until early 2020.

LXRA is providing alternative parking options in the following places:

• 80 parking spaces at Keon Park Station
• 50 parking spaces along McCartney Street
• 46 spaces along Cheddar Road
• 100 spaces on Cameron Street near Moreland Station

Click here to view a detailed map of all current parking changes.

4. What is Council doing to help with parking?
We will regularly review and refine parking arrangements throughout the project to ensure there is as much space available as possible for residents, workers and customers.

Council is introducing the following changes to parking:

• All day parking spaces on Byfield Street
• All day parking spaces on Ralph Street
• Parking on the east side of the former Reservoir Library in the Ralph Street car park changed to 2P

Click here to view a detailed map of all current parking changes.

If you have questions or feedback about these changes, call Darebin City Council on (03) 8470 8888.

5. What protections are in place for trees and vegetation?
LXRA has advised that the removal of vegetation and trees within the station precinct and along the rail corridor is required for the construction of the new elevated rail and station. Expert arborists and wildlife handlers are undertaking a detailed assessment and working to identify ways to minimise impacts on local flora and fauna. A landscape plan is being developed for the the new station precinct. More information will be made available this year. Council is working with the LXRA to ensure the best outcomes for the community as we plan for a greener, bolder, more connected city.

6. Will the roads be upgraded?
The LXRA is responsible only for the removal of level crossings. Road improvements are not included in this stage of the project. Council has long advocated for a roads package for Reservoir, and the State Government has committed to ensuring the level crossing removal works will enable road improvements to be constructed later. Council will continue to advocate to State Government for investment in the roads network.

7. How long will the project take?
The Level Crossing Removal project is due for completion in 2020.

Updates from the Darebin Sustainable Transport Team
You can sign up for updates on transport projects and programs being managed by Darebin City Council by using the form here.

Kick start healthy, active travel for students at your school with these initiatives and resources.

Walk to School Month

Every October, schools in Darebin join hundreds of schools across Victoria to encourage primary school kids to walk, ride or scoot to school as part of VicHealth's Walk to School month. It's the perfect time to start some good habits and give your kids a jump start on the 60 minutes of daily physical exercise they need each day.

For information about the program in Darebin, contact the Darebin Safe Travel team email safetravel@darebin.vic.gov.au or call 9470 8281. VicHealth also has some good tips at www.walktoschool.vic.gov.au

Octopus Schools

Council is in its third year of the Octopus School Program, a program aimed at making walking, cycling, skating and scooting to school safe, easy and fun for families. The Octopus School Program will engage a local primary school for intensive assistance during 2019/20 financial year, including receiving over $150,000 investment in the school precinct and up to $50,000 to support active travel programs. Information on how to apply was provided to all Darebin primary schools and applications closed on 30 August 2019. We are pleased to announce that Reservoir Views Primary School was the recipient for the 2020 Octopus School Program. 

Reservoir Views Primary School has so far received a brand new bike shed, and fleet of children's bicycles to support active travel and Bike Ed. 

Newlands Primary School was selected as the second school in Darebin to take part in the Octopus School program in early 2019. They have received new bike and scooter parking that will now shelter 18 bikes and 18 scooters from the weather, and a local artist has just finished installing some fence art that celebrates active travel. A student and parent survey that was recently undertaken by the schools showed some fantastic statistics about families and students travelling actively to school – a parent workshop around these results was undertaken and some initiatives are currently being planned by the school and parents to keep this up.

Reservoir West Primary School piloted the Octopus School Program during 2018. This included intensive consultation with the school to determine an approach to increase the numbers of students walking, cycling and scooting to school. The school is now running Bike Ed for all students in Grade 3 to Grade 6, with the use of their brand new fleet of 18 bicycles, stored in their newly built bike shed. The Student Representative Council have been running a weekly active travel competition, and in 2018 a competition was held to design decals that were applied to the road surface outside the school. The image below shows the active travel mural that students help design as part of the program.

As part of the Octopus School program, Council have been assisting to map active routes to school. Directional decals (footpath stickers) showing the time to ride or walk have been placed along 3 different routes to both Octopus Schools – Reservoir West and Newlands Primary. Active routes for two other schools that are working towards Octopus School status have also been mapped. Thornbury Primary School and William Ruthven Primary School have had 3 routes each mapped and directions decals installed – some student designs have been printed as decals too and installed along these routes.

If your school applied to become an Octopus School and was unsuccessful, contact the Safe Travel Officer to talk about other ways to achieving Octopus School status.

Bike Fleet Giveaway

Preston North East Primary School were the successful recipients of Council’s fifth annual Bike Fleet Giveaway. The grant program offers a bike fleet to one Darebin primary school to assist in the delivery of its bike education program. The grant has enabled past recipients Bell Primary School, Kingsbury Primary School, Preston West Primary School and Reservoir East Primary School to provide students with training in cycling safety and safe travel, to help them get active and ride their bikes to school. Preston North East Primary School will now also be able to deliver the program, with bikes available for students who do not have one, or live too far from school to bring their own.

To find out more contact Council's Safe Travel Officer on (03) 8470 8281 or safetravel@darebin.vic.gov.au

Delivering Bike Ed in your school

Bike Ed is designed to help children in grades 3-6 develop skills to ride safely and independently on roads and paths. It involves a mix of practical and classroom activities. We can help fund teachers to undertake accredited Bike Ed instructor training. We can also source volunteers to assist teachers with Bike Ed delivery. 

Take a look at the reading below, and find out all the ways Bike Ed can benefit your students:

• Bike Ed for Darebin Students - How and why Bike Ed can be taught at your school 
• How Bike Ed can support the delivery of your school curriculum
• If At First You Don't Succeed - A Bike Ed Success Story 

We can also provide small amounts of cycle parking, advice and grant possibilities for larger bike parking requirements in and around the school, as well as prizes if you are running active travel promotions and events. 

Bike Ed Evaluation  
As Council supports local schools to run Bike Ed, we wanted to assess the outcomes for students that participate in this program. We asked students, parents and teachers to complete surveys before, immediately after, and three months after students completed Bike Ed. We found the following:

• The majority of students greatly increased their confidence levels. This was also observed by their parents
• The abilities needed to ride a bike were all found to improve, including riding in a straight line and using brakes
• The number of parents confident in their children’s road rules knowledge increased by 150%
• More than two thirds of students said they were riding more and 43% of parents observed their child riding more
• 71% of parents are confident that their child can ride a bike safely - an increase from 63% in the before survey
• 93% of parents felt the course had met their expectations

See the full evaluation report

For more information and to run Bike Ed in your school contact us.. 

Metro Trains Community Education Unit
Metro Community Education Unit will come out to your school to talk about safe travel on public transport and teach students about journey planning, ticketing and behaviour. Presentations can be tailored to areas of interest including assisting Grade 6 students with the transition to high school.

Walking School Bus - How to get started
A Walking School Bus is a group who walk to and from school along a set route picking up ‘passengers’ along the way. The bus is accompanied by at least two parents with one at the front, and another supervising at the back. It is a fun, energetic way to travel to school while also learning about street safety.

To find out how to run one, visit the VicHealth website. A Walking School Bus can run everyday or as little as one morning or afternoon a week. Consider dedicating one day to Walk Once a Week or Walk on Wednesday.  Victoria Walks Smart Steps initiative features great ways to engage your family and school community in walking more. 

School Travel Plans
School Travel Plans support an increase in students’ active travel to school whilst reducing the pick-up and drop-off traffic problems schools face. 

The Darebin Council Plan 2017-2021 commits that we will reduce the speed limit to 40 km/hr across 30% of the municipality. We are now implementing these speed limit reductions in local residential areas with existing vehicle speeds, road layout, presence of traffic management devices and VicRoads criteria for speed limit reductions guiding the project.

We are currently lowering the speed limit to 40 km/hr on local residential streets in Fairfield/Alphington within the boundary defined by the Hurstbridge Train Line, Darebin Creek, Heidelberg Road and Victoria Road. The following roads are not affected by this change: Victoria Road, Westgarth Street, Heidelberg Road, Grange Road and Station Street. Further information on the next stages of the project will be distributed as we work through the statutory processes with VicRoads.

What is Streets for People? 

Council is committed to increasing sustainable transport through safer streets for walking and cycling. As a result, we have commenced working towards the transformation of a number of key active transport corridors across Darebin. The “Streets for People“ program will re-imagine what a local street in metropolitan Melbourne can be for the community and its various users. This includes the following visions and objectives:

• Prioritise sustainable transport modes, through safe, functional and inviting streets for those who live, work or study in the local area.
• Introduce streetscaping, landscaping and place-making designs that ensure lower speeds.
• Provide high quality corridors for those who walk and ride, connecting to public transport and across major roads.
• Work closely with the community and respond to local issues, as a leading example of how this work can be done.

 Preston Activity Link 

The Preston Activity Link follows Eric Street from Elizabeth Street in the west, and continues along Cramer Street to St Georges Road. It also includes Gower Street from Plenty Road to Chifley Drive in the west, before linking with the Darebin Creek Trail near Northland Shopping Centre.

• Following two rounds of community consultation in March 2019 and February 2020, Council endorsed the Preston Activity Link (West) concept designs for the corridor between St Georges Road and James Street at their meeting on Monday 27 April.
• We are now working with the local community to finalise the design for the final section in the western end of the corridor, between James Street and Elizabeth Street.
• You can view the Council Report and endorsed designs on the Preston Activity Link Your Say page. 

Croxton West Place-making Project 

The Croxton West Place-making Project includes parts of two Streets for People corridors - the Northcote Green Link along Beavers Road and the Great Western Shimmy along Leinster Grove and Woolhouse Street.The remainder of the area includes the streets between St Georges Road and Merri Creek, and Arthurton Road and Normanby Avenue.

• During October 2019 and February 2020 we invited our community to have their say on this area, and developed concept designs that respond to the feedback presented.
• Council endorsed the Croxton west Place-making Project concept designs at its meeting on Monday 27 April 2020.
• You can view the Council Report and endorsed designs on the Croxton West Place-making Project page. 

Northern Reservoir Corridor

The Streets for People Northern Reservoir Final Strategy and Concept Designs Report was endorsed by Council on Wednesday 6 November 2019. The Northern Reservoir Corridor follows Broadhurst Avenue from the east to High Street, then Crookston Road from Cheddar Road, to McMahon Road and the Darebin Creek Trail. Council will now begin design and delivery of the priority projects. Thank you to everyone who participated in the three rounds of community engagement and who helped shape the final outcomes. 

Northcote-Thornbury Corridor

The selected area for the inaugural Streets for People corridor stretches along the Mernda train line, from Miller Street in Thornbury to Merri Parade in Northcote. This includes Ethel Street, Stott Street, Herbert Street, part of Westbourne Grove, Park Street and part of Charles Street.

Following an extensive study of the area, and working directly with the local community and through a feedback process, the Streets for People Northcote-Thornbury Final Strategy was endorsed by Council on Monday 15th October, 2018. 

The development of this project was majority-funded through VicRoads' funding under the Safe System Road Infrastructure Program (SSRIP) which is part of the Towards Zero 2016-2020 Victorian Road Safety Strategy and Action Plan. 

We are now delivering the second package of changes, following construction of seven projects in 2019.

Feasibility Study

A further eight Streets for People corridors have been identified across Darebin. In total, this will create 60 kilometres of routes across the municipality connecting major transport links and key destinations. The Streets for People Feasibility Study was conducted in 2018 providing an appraisal of each corridor, and recommendations for the most appropriate responses to develop better active transport and equality for all road users. The Streets for People Feasibility Study was awarded the Landscape Architecture Award (Landscape Planning) by the Australian Institute of Landscape Architects (AILA) in June 2019.

What is car sharing?
Car sharing is a service that allows people to hire vehicles on demand for short periods of time. Vehicles are parked in dedicated bays and are available to members 24 hours a day. Members benefit from the flexibility of having access to a private vehicle but do not have to pay the costs associated with owning a car. 

Benefits of car sharing
Research has found that each car share vehicle replaces up to 10 privately owned cars. Members of car share schemes also reduce car use by around 50%. Car sharing therefore helps to reduce traffic congestion, parking demand, and greenhouse gas emissions. 

Car Sharing in Darebin
There are over 50 car share bays in Darebin provided by FlexiCar, GoGet and Popcar. These bays are mostly in Northcote and Westgarth but there are also bays in Thornbury and Preston. We are working with car share companies to expand our car share network.

How does car sharing work?
You register with a car share company, pay a fee and book a car online or by phone. Once you have registered you have access to a network of vehicles in your area which can be booked on an hourly or daily basis. When you hire a vehicle it must be picked up and dropped back to the same spot. The fees cover all expenses, including petrol, insurance, registration and maintenance.

People who drive less that 5,000 km per year usually find car sharing saves them money. Car sharing is perfect for anyone that doesn't need a car every day, or only needs a second car occasionally. It is also a great option for businesses.

Compare the prices, locations and service provision to work out which car share company suits you best.

Some Darebin residents make their own vehicles available for sharing through neighbour-to-neighbour car sharing platform Car Next Door

More Information
Ph: 8470 8683
Email: carshare@darebin.vic.gov.au

Exploring the Darebin Creek Trail

There's no better way to unwind and get in touch with nature than by following the Darebin Creek Trail. Whether you live in Bundoora or Alphington or somewhere in between, you're never far away from the nearest entry point into the Darebin Creek Trail.

The entire 26-kilometre bike and walking trail extends from the main Yarra Trail in Kew East to Whittlesea in the north and has recently been enhanced by the completion of the Rathcown Road Bridge linking the trail into Bundoora Park.

We've also heard from our community that new signage was needed along the trail. Through the Northern Trails Strategy we've been able to get consistent signs along the length of the trail, co-funded by all Councils along the creek and the Department of Land Water and Planning. This includes a comprehensive suite of wayfinding signage and large on-site maps.

We worked with the Wurundjeri Council to include on the signage an Acknowledgment of Country to the traditional landowners and custodians of this land, the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people.

The wayfinding features include the Australian native kangaroo grass (Marram Banum Themeda triandra) in recognition of the species which are found along the length of the trail.

The maps include walking and riding routes, public toilets, scenic rest spots, water fountains, bike repair stations and local community destinations including shops. Directional signs have also been placed at various points along the trail that include distances, as well as walking and riding times in minutes to help you plan your journey.

For online mapping visit this site.

Please be aware that the Darebin Creek Trail is currently undergoing some upgrades and closures. You might like to view this detour information from Banyule City Council as part of your trip planning. 

Being mindful on shared paths

Using shared paths is more about looking out for each other and common sense than rules. Here are some tips and guidelines to keep in mind when you're riding or walking along Darebin's shared paths.

What is a shared path?

A shared path is designed to be used by everyone. They are multi-user paths for people of all ages and paces including pedestrians, wheelchair users, joggers, children on scooters or roller-skates, families with prams and dog walkers. They can also be used by recreational and commuting bike riders, as well as families visiting parks.

Everyone needs to be thoughtful and mindful on a shared path to ensure they are safe for all. Follow our guide below to ensure you're prepared when you encounter a shared path.

Up to what age can children legally ride on the footpath?

Children under 13 years are allowed to ride on the footpath. Adults who accompany children can also legally ride on the footpath.

Who has right of way on shared paths and footpaths?

If you are riding a bike on a shared path or footpath you are required to give way to all pedestrians.

Do I need to keep to the left when riding on a shared path or footpath?

Yes it is a legal requirement that you ride on the left unless it is impracticable to do so.

On bike:

• Pass other riders and walkers on the right and provide plenty of warning. It's a good idea to ring your bell about 30 metres before passing. You can also use your voice to provide a friendly warning - for example, "passing on your right"
• Travel at a safe speed so that you can stop quickly if necessary. Take particular care when passing in case your warning bell or call was not heard.
• Keep an eye out for all pedestrians, especially children and dogs as their movements can be unpredictable
• Encourage children to keep to the left and join in warning other path-users of your approach

On foot:

• Keep to the left of the path and walk in a predictable manner
• Keep your dog on a lead when walking along Darebin's shared trails
• Help children to keep to the left, explaining that bike riders can come from both directions

Learn more about our shared paths

Merri Creek Trail

Northern Pipe Trail (St Georges Road)

Updates from the Darebin Sustainable Transport team

You can sign up for updates and opportunities to comment on transport projects and programs being managed by Darebin City Council by using the form here.

If you are considering alternative forms of transport, they can include public transport, walking, cycling, car-pooling or car share. You may want to check out our TravelSmart Map to help with your planning.

 Benefits of a Travel Plan

•     Increases the accessibility and marketability of your work site
•     Reduces the space required for car parking
•     Staff recruitment and retention improved if there is a range of travel options available
•     Encourages sustainable travel
•     Increases personal health and well being

Travel Plans for New Developments

Large developments located in a Priority Development Zone 1 or 2 and have over 1,000 square metres of gross floor area are required to submit an Integrated Transport Plan, including a Travel Plan, as part of the Planning Permit Application process.

Contact us for further information and advice on developing a Travel Plan for your business or development.  

Sustainable Transport Officer
Ph: 8470 8683
Email: mailbox@darebin.vic.gov.au