Save The Birdcage Parklet: Keep Our Community connected!

Dear Community Members,

My name is Tom Mornement, co-owner of Bin 3 Cafe & Cellars with my father, Peter. For the past 17 years, we’ve proudly served our wonderful community at 395B Belmore Road, Balwyn. Our family-owned business has thrived thanks to the support of locals like you.

One of the most successful initiatives has been our outdoor dining parklet, "The Birdcage". Thanks to the City of Boroondara, we were part of the outdoor dining parklet program, which was introduced in December 2020. It has brought vibrancy and connectivity to our community after the feelings of isolation many experienced as a result of Melbourne's extensive 'lock down'. The undeniable success of our parklet was such that the City of Boroondara proposed making it permanent. After its consultation process, the community voted in favour of retaining 'The Birdcage' with a result of 72%. Disappointingly, a small group of shopkeepers have campaigned against our parklet, citing false claims about parking issues. (There are over 190 carparks in our shopping centre and it is rare to see it at full capacity). Their efforts have led to the unfortunate decision by Council to discontinue our much loved parklet. This is a devastating blow to our community space, where locals gather to enjoy coffee, meals from nearby restaurants, forging new friendships and enjoying each other’s company. 

Our parklet isn’t just a dining area; it’s a wonderful community hub. It’s where Tom, who is a wheelchair user enjoys his daily milkshake. It’s where clients and carers from TomCare find a welcoming space. It’s where our customers enjoy food from 11 local restaurants. We have all their menus in our shop and we provide bamboo plates and cutlery. This unique service fosters a sense of community that is deeply valued by all who visit.

Despite the positive impact and the unanimous Council support for the outdoor dining program, we have been informed that our parklet will be removed by June 30th. Ours will be the only one in Boroondara to cease operation. The other 18 will continue. We believe Council's decision is unjust and discriminatory. (James of Barton Milkbar in Hawthorn and myself, were invited to address Councillors to present our case for an ongoing outdoor dining program in November 2022. At that time all Councillors voted in favour).

We are calling on you, our community, to help us overturn this decision. Our parklet has been more than a success; it’s been a lifeline for community connection and support for local businesses. Let’s ensure "The Birdcage" continues to thrive and serve our community.

Please sign this petition to save The Birdcage and keep our community thriving!

Thank you for your support. Together, we can make a difference.