Across Stonnington, I am hearing a consistent message from residents and local businesses alike: cost-of-living pressures are affecting everyday decisions.
At a time when every dollar matters, Council’s responsibility is to deliver genuine value for our community, while ensuring Stonnington remains a great place to live, work and visit. This focus has guided the development of our 2026–27 Budget. It’s been carefully balanced to maintain the essential services and infrastructure our community relies on today, while positioning Council to meet future financial challenges.
Supporting our local economy remains a key priority. Council continues its commitment to revitalising the Chapel Street Precinct – an iconic destination central to Stonnington’s identity, culture and economic prosperity. We are already seeing encouraging results from the first year of investment – increased visitation, stronger local spending and improvements in cleanliness and
CEO UPDATE
Message from the Mayor
presentation – which has helped create a more vibrant and welcoming environment.
Year Two of the Chapel Street Precinct Improvement Plan will see more than $4 million invested in initiatives to strengthen local businesses and enhance the visitor experience. This investment complements growing private-sector confidence, displayed by the redevelopment of the Jam Factory and other significant projects.
Community safety also remains a key focus. We continue to work closely with Victoria Police and other partners to support a safe and welcoming precinct, both day and night. Over the coming months, Council will implement a range of night-time safety and lighting improvements arising from the Chapel Street Safety Audit.
At the same time, Council continues to advocate strongly to the state government for increased police resources, greater community safety initiatives and investment in support services that address the underlying causes of crime and antisocial behaviour.
Advocacy for the 2026 state election
Dale Dickson PSM, Chief Executive Officer
With the Victorian state election now less than four months away, Council is calling on all political parties and candidates to back investment and policy reform for Stonnington, to support the significant population growth that we are planning for.
Like all councils in Victoria, Stonnington is operating in a constrained financial environment and is experiencing the impacts of significant cost shifting from other levels of government over a sustained period. This election is an opportunity for the Victorian Government to work with Council and make investments in the services and infrastructure that will enhance our city’s liveability as we grow.
Some of the key priorities that Council is calling on candidates to commit to include:
» urgent increases in visible police presence and stronger action on crime and illicit tobacco
» funding for family violence, homelessness, mental health and community outreach services
» co-investment in Chapel Street to support safety, activation and economic recovery
» major upgrades to sporting pavilions and facilities to support women’s and girls’ participation in sport
» increased funding for libraries, immunisation, maternal and child health and early years services
Reconciliation Acknowledgement Statement
Ensuring our community feels safe is one of the strongest messages we hear from residents, and it remains a key advocacy priority for Council. We are continuing to listen to our community about the services that matter most in daily life. We are reviewing our hard waste and bundled green waste collection services and your input, through our online survey, will help shape services that are efficient, sustainable and responsive.
And for many of us, myself included, pets are cherished members of our families. Our Domestic Animal Management Plan 2026–2029, adopted in June, sets a clear direction for balancing animal welfare and responsible pet ownership, as well as the shared enjoyment of public spaces by the broader community.
Together, we are building a resilient, connected and forward-looking Stonnington. I encourage you to stay involved, share your views and continue helping shape the future of our city.
Cr Melina Sehr JP, Mayor
Councillor Conversations
Meet your Councillor to discuss local matters:
Cr Steve Stefanopoulos OAM Wattletree Ward
Thursday 13 August, 10am–12pm
Stonnington City Centre
311 Glenferrie Road, Malvern
Cr Steve Stefanopoulos OAM Wattletree Ward
Cr Sally Davis
Hedgeley Dene Ward
Saturday 15 August, 1pm–3pm
Malvern Library 1255 High Street, Malvern
Cr Sally Davis
Hedgeley Dene Ward
Wednesday 19 August, 4pm–6pm
Malvern Community Arts Centre 29 Burke Road, Malvern East
Cr Samantha Choudhury Orrong Ward
Cr Steve Stefanopoulos OAM Wattletree Ward
Saturday 22 August, 12pm–2pm
Toorak Park
580 Orrong Road, Armadale
For upcoming sessions, visit: stonnington.vic.gov.au/ councillor-conversations
» investment in parks, playgrounds and open space to support population growth
» improved tram, train and bus reliability, accessibility and frequency
» funding for sustainability and climate resilience projects including expansion of the Container Deposit Scheme and investment in renewable energy initiatives.
Our advocacy is based on what you, our community, has told us is important. We have built our priorities based on feedback from the Council Plan, recent budgets, and our strategies to understand what the community want us to invest in.
With a limited capital budget, this is an opportunity to bring forward some projects that otherwise will take a little longer if we have to do it on our own.
We acknowledge we are on the Traditional Lands of the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung and Bunurong peoples of the East Kulin Nations and pay our respect to their Elders past and present. We extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. We acknowledge their living connection to Country, relationship with the land and all living things extending back tens of thousands of years.
You can help too – if there is something Council is advocating for that you want to see happen, consider writing to your local MP or candidates to show your support.
In the Victorian Parliament, Stonnington is represented by the electoral districts of Prahran and Malvern in the Legislative Assembly and by the Southern Metropolitan Region in the Legislative Council. Council looks forward to engaging constructively with all political parties and candidates in the lead up to the election.
To see the full list of policy and investment commitments that Stonnington is seeking, and to see what commitments are made in the leadup to the election, visit stonnington.vic.gov.au/advocacy
Information and events in this publication are current at the time of printing. Subsequent changes may occur.
Cover image: Stonnington resident Connie walking dog, Bodhi. Inset image: Local dog park.
Lighting upgrade a win for our community
It’s great to see this upgrade come to life. Better lighting means greater participation for players and improved safety for all park users, which is a win for the whole community.”
—
“I love the library. Always have.”
In our annual Library Survey, you reinforced that our libraries are not just valuable for what they offer, but for how they make people feel.
From more than 420 responses, 92 per cent said they were satisfied with our events and programs. The range of services offered by libraries was highlighted by one community member who listed their enjoyment of author talks and digital learning. Another highlighted the value of programs that build skills and confidence – like the digital parking permits sessions. Books will always be the libraries’ bread and butter, and this came through in the responses. More than 8 in 10 respondents said the library encouraged them to read more. One community member noted the “quality, range and recency of stock.”
Beyond programs and books, the survey also highlighted how the library is not just a place people go, but somewhere that makes them feel welcome. It’s a “safe haven and a place to recharge," as one respondent shared. This feedback will help inform planning and continuous improvement of our library services. By understanding what the community values most, we can ensure our libraries continue to remain inclusive, accessible and relevant community hubs.
Lighting upgrades at Malvern Cricket Ground are boosting safety, visibility and participation for lacrosse players and the wider community.
The new energy-efficient LED lights bring the grounds up to contemporary standards and create more opportunities for evening training and play.
Four new 25-metre lighting poles have been installed, featuring targeted, lowspill technology that keeps light focused on the playing surface.
For the Malvern Lacrosse Club, which trains and plays at the ground during winter (the Malvern Cricket Club uses the space in summer), these improvements will make a significant difference.
Malvern Lacrosse Club member Adam Barnes said the new lights will transform how the club uses the space.
“The new lighting will significantly improve [our] ability to deliver training and matches by extending usable playing hours and providing a safer, higherquality environment for players and officials,” Adam said.
“It will also strengthen the club’s ability to attract and retain players, coaches, volunteers and families, while creating opportunities to host more events and matches.”
Participation is also expected to see an uptick, with the lights creating fairer access to the ground.
“By increasing the availability of safe and reliable evening training and match opportunities, the [new lights] will make it easier for juniors, women’s teams and working adults to participate,” he said. Beyond sport, the improved lighting will also provide better, safer access to the grounds for those wanting to exercise or walk their dog in the evening (this was a key piece of feedback in our Domestic Animal Management Plan 2026–2029 engagement).
Out of the 20 Council-owned sportsgrounds in Stonnington, 19 have sports lights. However, some aren’t meeting the needs of community sport, and many have old energy inefficient bulbs, which is why we are progressively upgrading our sports lights.
But we can’t do it all alone. As part of our Advocacy Plan 2026 to the Victorian Government, we are asking for a funding commitment to deliver floodlighting upgrades across the municipality, to support women's and girls' safety and sports participation. We already have the community and clubs behind us, now we just need the Victorian Government.
Check out this and other advocacy asks at stonnington.vic.gov.au/ advocacy
New plan delivers for pets and people
Our new Domestic Animal Management Plan 2026–2029, adopted by Council in June, sets out how we’ll continue caring for pets, public spaces and each other.
Shaped by local voices, the plan reflects feedback from 329 community members who shared their views across two engagement periods in 2025 and 2026.
For Stonnington resident, Connie, the plan is a key part of creating safe and welcoming public spaces.
“Pet owners love their pets, but I think it’s also really important to balance pet
ownership with a responsibility to other people, to make sure that everyone can enjoy shared spaces,” Connie said.
The plan provides a clear framework for matters such as responsible pet ownership, dog attacks and preventing overpopulation.
For Connie, measures like microchipping and registration stand out.
“It gives you peace of mind that if something does happen, you’re more likely to be reunited with your pet,” Connie said.
“It’s reassuring to see Council supporting practical steps to help keep pets safe.”
Building on previous plans, the new plan responds to emerging challenges and opportunities as Stonnington continues to grow.
Cr Jamie Bell, Tooronga Ward
↗ Connie walking Bodhi on lead.
↗ Malvern Lacrosse Club players enjoying their new floodlights.
↗ Dogs exercising at Thomas Oval Dog Park off-lead area.
Your 2026–27 Budget: Investing in what matters
Transport, drains and local infrastructure
$19.83m
Renewal of roads, footpaths and drainage across Stonnington
$960k
Cycling infrastructure program
$500k
Forrest Hill Precinct road reconstruction
Environment and sustainability
$3.7m
Delivery of climate action initiatives to reduce emissions
$710k
Expansion of food and garden organics (FOGO) service
Community safety
$100k
Joint patrols with Victoria Police at key locations
$100k
Public lighting upgrades
$50k
Local Laws review to address community safety concerns
Parks and open space
$750k
New park at Porter Street and Grattan Street, Prahran
$720k
Playground upgrades to improve safety
$450k
New pedestrian connection to Izett Street Park
Meet the team bringing new energy to Chapel Street
Read
Victoria Chapel Street Place Manager
“My job is to lead the improvement plan and support the precinct to thrive. Having lived locally for years, I adore the vibrancy, creativity and diversity of Chapel Street. I’m pumped for what we can achieve with some momentum behind us.”
In an increasingly tight financial environment, the focus is on making your rates work hard for the things that matter most.
We will spend $289 million this financial year, with $41 million earmarked for capital works. Shaped by ongoing conversations with our community, this budget reflects the priorities of our residents while
maintaining a disciplined approach to our finances. We are focused on getting the basics right – maintaining local roads, parks, community facilities and essential services that people rely on every day.
Read the full budget at stonnington.vic.gov.au/annual-report-and-budget
Community facilities and recreation
$7.98m
(includes $4.3m grant)
Securing the future of Windsor Community Children's Centre through the purchase of the Union Street property in Windsor
$1.07m
Renewals at Council aquatic centres, including first aid rooms and CO₂ systems
$600k
Irrigation, drainage and pathway upgrades at Malvern Valley Golf Course
$500k
Floodlight upgrades at TH King Oval, Wadsworth Diamond Oval and East Malvern Tennis Courts
Streetscapes and local places
$940k
Greville Street streetscape works
$500k
Chapel Street Masterplan upgrades, including streetscape and lighting
$220k
Chapel Street precinct safety works
$1.15m
Prahran Market roof, flooring and stormwater works
$500k
Additional Prahran Market improvement works
Clean, busy streets, strong local businesses and boosted pride and confidence – that’s the $4.4m focus of the Chapel Street Precinct Improvement Plan.
Behind the scenes, a team is working with local traders, visitors and the community to support the exciting evolution of this precinct.
Jessica Chapel Street Business Liaison Officer
“A big part of my role is listening. Traders know this precinct better than anyone, and we want them to feel supported and heard. My job is to connect businesses with Council services and programs to build a more connected precinct.”
Dane Chapel Street Digital Marketing Officer
“There are so many great stories on Chapel Street. When you spend time talking to traders, you see how much creativity, resilience and community sits behind every business. I love shining a light on that and giving people more reasons to visit.”
More opportunities to have your say
OPEN
NOW
Draft Transport Strategy
2026–2040
Open until Sunday 16 August
We’ve drafted a Transport Strategy based on feedback from thousands of community members. We want to make your journeys safer and easier across all forms of transport in Stonnington. Is the draft strategy on the right track? Let us know.
Hard waste service review
Open until Monday 12 October
Our hard waste contract is coming to an end, providing an opportunity to assess and potentially update the service. We want to ensure it is efficient, costeffective and accessible.
We know our community has differing hard waste needs. Over 70 per cent of our residents live in medium and high-density housing, and these households face barriers to accessing the fixed collection service. We think this could be contributing to these residents using our service less than those in standalone homes.
We have also noted an 86 per cent increase in dumped rubbish incidents between 2018 and 2025, mostly outside our hard waste collection periods. Many of these items could be disposed of responsibly using our hard waste service.
COMING
THIS SPRING
Draft Sports Infrastructure Plan
This plan will help guide the future development of sporting facilities across Stonnington. It focuses on ensuring infrastructure keeps pace with changing community needs.
Key focus areas include thoughtful planning, infrastructure upgrades, and investment in welcoming, safe and accessible spaces for sport and recreation.
Sportsground Allocation Policy and Fees and Charges Review
More women and girls are playing field sports than ever before, which means there is increased demand on our sports infrastructure, including sportsgrounds.
This review will explore how we allocate access to our sportsgrounds and how we charge community sports clubs and schools for the use of these grounds.
It’s about ensuring fair and equitable access and making sure our funding model for sportsgrounds is sustainable so we can keep providing a quality service to keep our community active.
Share your thoughts on these plans at connectstonnington.vic.gov.au
Working together to address homelessness
Changes to Christmas tree collection service
A waste services review has identified only 1.5 per cent of households use our free booked Christmas tree collection service. Given the consistently low uptake of the service, we have determined it is no longer a sustainable or efficient use of resources. As a result, the service will cease from December 2026.
With rough sleeping increasing over the past five years, support for people experiencing homelessness is crucial.
As part of Homelessness Week (3–9 August), we’re sharing how our partnership to reduce rough sleeping is going.
About the partnership: Stonnington Zero
The Stonnington Zero program, delivered in partnership with Launch Housing and other community and health organisations, focuses on reducing rough sleeping homelessness through a ‘functional zero’ approach.
Functional Zero recognises that institutional and structural arrangements make it impossible to achieve ‘absolute zero’ (a situation in which every single person in society is housed). Instead, it aims to ensure that an individual’s experience of homelessness is short and non-recurring by creating a responsive service system that prevents long-term homelessness.
Five years on: what we’ve achieved
Since the program began in December 2021, 66 individuals have been added to the Stonnington By-Name List. Of these, 15 people have moved into permanent housing and 31 people have been made ‘inactive’ (i.e. moved to another area or have not been seen by outreach services for 90 days).
Christmas tree disposal options
» drop it off for free at the Stonnington Waste Transfer Station » cut it into smaller pieces and place it in your FOGO bin
» book a paid collection from a Christmas tree collection provider.
The By-Name List includes the names of people experiencing homelessness, which allows services to better track progress and deliver tailored housing and support solutions.
Stonnington Zero has also supported applications for the Victorian Housing Register (social housing waitlist).
Challenges – and what’s next
While these local efforts are making a difference, homelessness continues to rise. Limited housing supply and long waitlists remain significant challenges. Outreach services also require time to build trust and support people into stable housing.
Although housing supply is a state government responsibility, Council advocates strongly for more social housing supply, outreach and support services to support vulnerable people.
Ending homelessness is not something any single program or organisation can achieve alone. It requires a coordinated, collective effort bringing together essential services to support people and break the cycle of homelessness. The model is grounded in treating every individual with dignity and respect.
↗ Volunteers from Avalon Centre, which helps people experiencing homelessness
↗ Girls basketball team practice at Stonnington Sports Centre
Stonnington Engaged
Stonnington Symphony Concert: Sea, Myth & Mystery
Malvern Town Hall
cnr Glenferrie Rd & High St Malvern
Sunday 30 August
2.30pm–4.30pm
Cost adults $40, concession $35, child $16
Regarded as one of Australia’s finest community orchestras, this concert is a must for symphony lovers.
Purchase your ticket at events. humanitix.com/sea-myth-andmemory, by calling 0490 019 176, or at the Box Office on the day.
Prahran
Place
40 Grattan Street Prahran
For bookings, call 9510 7052 or visit prahranplace.org.au
Zumba Gold
Fridays
9.15am–10am
Cost $15 per session (8 sessions)
Get fit and have fun with Zumba: a fitness class that combines Latin music with easy-to-follow dance moves. Boost your fitness, lift your mood and meet new people.
Prahran Place Book Club
Fourth Monday of the month 2pm–3.30pm
Cost $8 per session (3 sessions)
Join our monthly book group to discover new titles, share experiences and connect with like-minded people.
Planning for your future workshops
» Home safety & independence – be in control of your choices
Grattan Gardens
Community Centre
40 Grattan Street Prahran
Monday 17 August
9.30am–11am
Free (bookings essential) Discover practical ways to stay safe and independent at home. Morning tea provided. Bookings essential.
MY WAY OF SOCIALISING
Supporting older adults to stay active and connected.
The Stonnington Community Transport Program means a lot to me because it eases my mobility needs in the community since I do not drive.
The bus service gets me to places I would not ordinarily get to using public transport. It is my way of socialising and being part of the community.”
— Margarite, Stonnington Community Transport Program user
» Active ageing: staying strong, mobile and independent for life
Grattan Gardens
Community Centre 40 Grattan Street Prahran
Monday 21 September 9.30am–11am
Free (bookings essential) Learn how to stay active, confident and independent in this session presented by accredited exercise physiologists. They’ll unpack what matters for healthy ageing, debunk common misconceptions, and share strategies to keep moving well. Morning tea provided.
Learn more at stonnington.vic.gov.au/ engaged
Subscribe to our Stonnington Engaged e-newsletter at stonnington.vic.gov.au/ subscribe
Program bookings: 8290 3337 or email engaged@ stonnington.vic.gov.au
Transport bookings: 8290 3349 or email communitytransport@ stonnington.vic.gov.au
The Crochet Connection Fridays
12.30pm–2.30pm
Cost $2 per session
Join this relaxed and friendly crochet group. Suitable for all levels to learn new techniques, share your passion and meet some lovely people along the way.
Grattan Gardens Community Centre
40 Grattan Street, Prahran
Prahran Chinese Elderly Citizens Association
Wednesdays 1pm–4pm
Small weekly fee
Join our weekly Chinese speaking group for elderly residents who speak Mandarin and local dialects. You can also play karaoke, table tennis, mahjong, cards and chess. New members are welcome.
Contact Christina 8290 1460 or email prahranchineseelderly@ hotmail.com
Phoenix Park Neighbourhood House
22 Rob Roy Road Malvern East
For bookings, visit phoenixparknh.org.au or call 9530 4397.
Yoga with Irene Tuesdays 9am–10am
Cost $15 per session
A gentle yoga class incorporating stretches, postures, breathing and relaxation. Ideal for beginners or for those wanting to maintain flexibility. BYO yoga mat and block.
Meditation Tuesdays
10.15am–11.00am
Cost $15 per session
Relax, release and renew with guided mindful meditation. Beginners welcome. BYO yoga mat and warm blanket.
Pickleball for Seniors open day
Orrong Park Tennis Centre 603 Orrong Road Prahran
Thursday 10 September 9.30am–11am & 6pm–7pm Free
Join us for our open day. Suitable for all ages and abilities.
To book, email play@netsports.com.au visit netsports.com.au or call 1300 649 336
Armadale Probus Club Inc
Prahran RSL Memorial Hall 301 High St Prahran
First Friday of the month 10am–12pm Free
Meet the friendly regulars at Probus. Morning tea provided. To book, email armadaleprobus@outlook.com or call 0493 792 336
↗ Margarite welcomes her driver
WHAT’S ON
Chapel Street
Precinct presents Caravan Sounds
Second Sunday of August, September, October and November
3pm–5.30pm (Aug, Sep)
3pm–6.30pm (Oct, Nov) Free
Various locations near Chapel Street
Soak up the good vibes with Caravan Sounds. Infectious beats and live DJ energy descend on Chapel Street for music-filled afternoons. Gather your friends for these free outdoor sessions. Learn more at chapelstreet.com.au/ caravan-sounds
LIBRARIES
Learn more and book at stonnington.vic.gov.au/ library
Design a Bookmark Competition
Saturday 1 August to Monday 31 August
Calling young artists and illustrators to celebrate Children’s Book Week 2026. Design a bookmark inspired by the theme ‘A Symphony of Stories’. Open to Stonnington residents or students, with winners across three age groups. Winning designs will be professionally printed and shared by our libraries.
Movies at the Mechanics' Institute: Our Bruce Turner Lecture
Thursday 20 August
6.30pm–7.30pm Cost $5–10
PMI Victorian History Library 39 St Edmonds Road Prahran
Discover how Mechanics’ Institutes helped shape early cinema in Victoria. Join historian Royce Harris as he shares stories, insights and rare images revealing how travelling film shows grew into community favourites across small towns and suburbs.
Learn more at stonnington.vic.gov.au/whats-on
Youth Fest celebration
Friday 4 September
3.30pm–7.30pm Free
Prahran RSL
301 High St Prahran
Celebrate Youth Fest with us at our free gaming event for young people aged 12 to 25. Run in collaboration with Level Up! Gaming, the event will feature different gaming consoles, free food and snacks, and competition.
Caring for citrus and fruit trees
Saturday 1 August 10.30am –12pm Free
Phoenix Park Library
Learn the essentials of keeping fruit and citrus trees healthy, productive and resilient with passionate gardener, Kaye Robets-Palmer. Bookings required.
Growing herbs and edible flowers
Saturday 5 September 10.30am –12pm Free
Greville Street Library
Find out which herbs and flowers are suitable for your garden, balcony or windowsill – and get tips on how to grow, harvest and use them.
Wednesday 5 to Sunday 9 August
Set in the seedy Soho underworld of the 1950s, this fast-paced black comedy, Mojo, dives into nightclub culture, gang rivalries and shifting power dynamics. Produced by Almost Pisces Productions and written by acclaimed English playwright Jez Butterworth, Mojo features an all-female cast and crew taking on Butterworth’s iconic male characters. Sharp, chaotic and wickedly funny, Mojo delivers a thrilling night of theatre.
Grow your own food with the Stonnington Seed Library
Did you know that you can borrow seeds to take home and plant in your own garden? As a Stonnington Libraries member, you can borrow up to three packets of seeds each month to plant and grow at home, including vegetables, herbs and native varieties. Returns optional. To learn more, visit stonnington.vic.gov.au/ Stonnington-Seed-Library
School holiday fun
Monday 21 September to Friday 2 October
Join in the holiday fun with free and low-cost activities across our libraries. From making zines to crafty fun, ribbon dancing and LEGO® to family film screenings and more – there’s something for everyone. View and book into the program from late August.
Sweeney Todd
Friday 11 to Sunday 20 September
Watch the infamous tale of revenge set in 1840s London. An unjustly exiled barber returns to seek vengeance against the judge who destroyed his life. Joining forces with pie shop owner Mrs Lovett, his dark mission sparks a grisly business. Presented by Soundworks Productions, Stephen Sondheim’s Tony Award–winning musical thriller Sweeney Todd is a musical classic not to miss.
MUSICAL THEATRE
Boosting butterfly and bird life in Stonnington
In pockets of green space, something special is happening. Populations of butterflies, birds and insects are rising.
Trials and innovation
Stonnington has trialled a number of initiatives as part of a broader, longterm goal to strengthen the municipality’s biodiversity.
Over the past year, Stonnington has been transforming underused areas into thriving habitats.
Low-use exotic turf and leaf litter areas have been replaced with native grasses and wildflower meadows over the last couple of years. This in turn has created spaces that support pollinators and provide food and shelter for wildlife.
You can see these biodiversity areas taking shape in non-play zones at Malvern Valley Golf Course and the Urban Forest Reserve in East Malvern. The results have been remarkable.
At the Urban Forest, innovation is playing a key role. Stonnington Certified Gardener, Nathan, has trialled a native lawn using Microlaena and wallaby grass – creating a lush, green space that thrives without irrigation.
“In our climate, if you can produce a native lawn using a minimal amount of water, it’s a positive,” Nathan said.
“When I started planting native grasses and wildflowers, the number of insects went up tenfold,” he said.
Locals are noticing the difference too, with many reporting to Nathan a significant increase in bird life.
“If you come in spring or summer, there are butterflies everywhere,” he said.
The trials continued at the Urban Forest’s ponds where invasive mosquito fish were removed from the ponds and replaced with a native species, the Southern Pygmy Perch –a small native freshwater fish that grows up to 6 or 8 cm in length and eats mosquito larvae and other aquatic insects.
“It was the perfect opportunity to remove a pest species and introduce a native fish,” Nathan said.
Around 100 Southern Pygmy Perch have now been released, with the aim of establishing a self-sustaining breeding population that supports biodiversity across local waterways.
Strengthening health and habitat
At the Glen Iris Wetlands, recent works restored water quality and strengthened habitat. Located in Glen Iris, next to Gardiner’s Creek and the TH King Oval, the Glen Iris Wetlands consist of a chain of ponds linked by bluestone channels and a weir on Hedgeley Dene Drain.
Teeming with birdlife, the wetlands are home to various species,
including black ducks, white-faced herons, white-necked herons, little cormorants, little grebes, swamp hens and tawny frogmouths.
After years of sediment build-up and invasive weed species, the wetlands had become clogged. A project in late 2024 sought to restore the ponds so they could function properly as both a natural stormwater filter and a healthy habitat to support biodiversity.
The project included the removal of sediment build-up and invasive weeds, followed by revegetation of the area with native aquatic, semi-aquatic, and terrestrial plants. Dead or dying trees were also converted into habitat trees and additional native trees planted.
"Protecting and enhancing our biodiversity is important because it affects us all," said Nathan.
“It’s your backyard. By doing this work, we’re supporting the environment that we all live in,” he said.
Thanks to employees like Nathan, who we’re celebrating as part of Biodiversity Month this September, biodiversity isn’t something that exists only in regional areas – it’s thriving right here in your neighbourhood.
Free indigenous plants
We’re giving away 1,500 indigenous seedlings – from colourful wildflowers to hardy grasses and shrubs – to help you nurture nature at home. Come along to one of our giveaway events this September to grab yours and chat to our expert gardeners about how to choose and care for plants that work for you.
FIRST (MAIN) GIVEAWAY
Saturday 5 September
10am–12pm
Winter Street Pop-Up Park Malvern (next to Malvern Toy Library)
SECOND GIVEAWAY
Tuesday 8 September 11am–12pm
Phoenix Park Community Centre, Malvern East
THIRD GIVEAWAY
Wednesday 9 September 12pm–2pm
Grattan Gardens
Community Centre, Prahran
5 WAYS TO BOOST BIODIVERSITY AT HOME
1 Plant local indigenous plants. This supports indigenous birds, insects and pollinators.
2 Install insect or native bee hotels, which help pollinators breed and find shelter.
3 Rethink lawns – replace traditional turf with native gardens and lawns.
4 Keep cats indoors – help protect native wildlife.
5 Join a 'Friends of' group or volunteer program.
Learn other ways to support biodiversity at stonnington.vic.gov.au/ support-biodiversity
↗ Glen Iris Wetlands.
↗ Friends of the Urban Forest volunteers.
Janette wants others to Take the Plunge
When Janette Dickey entered the Stonnington community swimming event Take the Plunge in 2013, she didn’t expect to win.
Janette wasn’t a professional swimmer, but a busy mum squeezing in a couple of swims a week.
“I was working and had an 8- and 10-yearold, so I only really got to the pool twice a week,” Janette said.
To Janette's surprise, she took home gold (and two pairs of Speedos she was equally thrilled about winning).
Now, Janette is encouraging others to dive in and start training, with the much-loved community swimming event returning to Harold Holt Swim Centre this November.
Crowded lanes and camaraderie
When it launched in 1993, Take the Plunge embodied a true community spirit, welcoming swimmers of all levels and ages for friendly competition.
Janette remembers the early years of the event as busy, chaotic and full of energy.
“Swimmers shared lanes with four to five other people, each starting ten seconds apart,” she recalls.
“I always hoped the swimmers in my lane had submitted a correct time and didn’t slow down near the end of the race because it was really hard to pass them.”
Janette also helped with timekeeping, which could get tricky when swimmers overtook each other mid-race.
While those early races were crowded, the event has evolved – with only one swimmer per lane now in place to ensure safety and give every participant a clearer run.
Back again – and faster
After a 21-year-long run, the event took an 11-year hiatus.
It returned in 2025 and this time, Janette made a clean sweep in the 65+ category, winning the 1km, 400m and 50m races.
“Having just turned 65, I was very happy as I had just completed a successful season of open water swimming races,” she said.
“I was fit, strong and keen to swim well.”
Janette even believes she swam faster last year than she did in 2013.
Interested in having a go?
Take the Plunge is all about getting in the water.
“It’s not just for winners and good swimmers,” Janette said.
“It’s for all kinds of swimmers – a chance to give it a go, participate, share everyone’s joy of swimming and celebrate this wonderful community asset that we have.”
“Do a little training and set a time – then you have a target to beat next year. You can also find a friend and challenge them.”
For this year’s event, Janette is even thinking of bringing her 97-year-old mother along to compete.
“If she can do it, surely anyone can.”
Registrations for Take the Plunge open on Monday 7 September Start training and register at stonnington.vic.gov.au/active/ take-the-plunge
“Best seat in the house”: Citizenship ceremonies from the conductor’s view
For new citizens, the citizenship ceremony is an unforgettable milestone when they are officially welcomed as Australians. Kevin Hillier has witnessed that moment hundreds of times, yet he says it never loses its power.
As the conductor of Stonnington City Brass, Kevin has led the music at the City of Stonnington citizenship ceremonies for more than 30 years. From his position – standing above the Mayor as new citizens take the pledge – he has “the best seat in the house”. “The best part is always seeing the faces of recipients and their guests when the candidates are naturalised,” Kevin said.
Held several times a year at Malvern Town Hall, the ceremonies bring together people from all over the world, each with their own story of arrival, resilience and aspiration. For Kevin and his band, these ceremonies are far from monotonous.
“I’m happy to do it half a dozen times a year. We don’t get sick of doing it, that’s for sure,” he said.
Over the years, Stonnington City Brass, a 40-member-strong band, has sought to elevate the atmosphere of the occasion, adding musical touches that underscore its significance. Two decades ago, the band introduced a formal fanfare to accompany the official party’s entrance.
“It makes it feel like a real regal occasion, not just rocking up to get their certificate,” Kevin said.
The band also weaves in musical selections that reflect the cultural backgrounds of new citizens – a gesture that acknowledges the diversity of those being welcomed.
One of Hillier’s favourite moments is seeing participants arrive in traditional dress.
“It’s lovely seeing people come up in their national costumes to receive their citizenship,” he said.
“Those moments really touch me.”
The diversity of new citizens is also mirrored within the band itself.
Stonnington City Brass comprises members from across the globe, some of whom have taken the same path to citizenship that they now help honour for others.
“We’ve had a couple of our members become citizens at the Malvern Town Hall – one was naturalised just recently,” Kevin said.
For new citizens, the ceremony is the culmination of years of waiting. Last financial year, 1,108 people from more than 56 countries were naturalised at the 6 ceremonies held in Stonnington. When new citizens step forward to accept their citizenship, Kevin is in position, watching on, just as he has for the past 30 years.
It’s people like Kevin Hillier –and all members of Stonnington City Brass – who ensure our citizenship ceremonies provide joyful, lifelong memories for our new citizens, their families and friends.
— Cr Sally Davis, Hedgeley Dene Ward
↗ Stonnington City Brass conductor, Kevin Hillier.
↗ Take the Plunge 2025 winners, Janette Dickey and Lauren Paterson.
Empowering local leaders to support our community
For Lai Leng Chee, leader of the Stonnington Chinese Association, the Stonnington Community Group Leaders’ Network is more than a meeting, it’s a vital source of knowledge, support and connection.
Held every six weeks at the Grattan Gardens Community Centre in Prahran, the network brings together leaders of volunteer and not-for-profit groups to share information, learn new skills and connect with Council and community representatives.
For Lai Leng, who leads a group in which 80 per cent of members speak Chinese, the sessions play an especially important role.
“It’s useful for me to attend because I learn important information to share that might not otherwise reach [my members],” Lai Leng said.
“The sessions are really informative –I always bring valuable insights back to the club.”
Featuring guest speakers on topics ranging from senior wellbeing and environmental programs to elder abuse awareness, the network helps leaders stay informed and better support their members.
Interpreters are available on request, ensuring the sessions are accessible to diverse community leaders across Stonnington.
Beyond the presentations, Lai Leng says the opportunity to connect with other leaders is just as valuable.
“You learn a lot from other people’s concerns, especially leaders who are also from diverse backgrounds,” she said.
“We learn from each other, and that’s really important.”
Ward spotlight: Deputy Mayor Cr Samantha Choudhury on Orrong
Whether by foot or by tram, it’s all within reach in Orrong Ward, which is just one reason why Cr Choudhury loves it so much.
Born and bred in Prahran – and now raising her family here – Cr Choudhury is proud to be the Councillor for one of the most diverse, liveable and vibrant areas in Melbourne.
“I love the walkable neighbourhoods, tree-lined streets, [and] heritage and modern architecture styles… and the fact that you can walk to cafes, shops and the tram [to] get anywhere in minutes,” Cr Choudhury said.
By sharing knowledge and building connections, the network continues to strengthen local community groups – and the people they support. Keep your finger on the pulse of what’s happening in your community.
Are you a local leader of a community group?
If you’d like to attend the network meeting, email us at engaged@stonnington. vic.gov.au
From Hawksburn Village to Chapel Street and High Street Armadale, some of Melbourne’s finest fashion and dining experiences are only a stone’s throw away from Orrong Ward.
“It’s hard not to spend money every day,” Cr Choudhury jokes.
Orrong Ward comprises most of Prahran and half of Armadale.
It is also home to an historic twohectare green oasis: Victoria Gardens.
Although many associate Victoria Gardens with balmy evenings of opera music, ANZAC Day services or quiet moments of serenity, for Cr Choudhury, the gardens hold an extra special meaning as it's where she got married. Now, it’s where she goes for walks with her kids and dog.
“I love that it feels like a sanctuary in the heart of [the] inner city along a busy road,” Cr Choudhury said.
A fun fact about Orrong Ward
Cr Choudhury’s ward includes parts of Orrong Road, which is renowned for its dense offering of grand 19th century Victorian, Federation and Italianate mansions.
But what you might not know?
Head a couple streets north-west and you’ll find Grandview Grove, which also features an unusual collection of grand Victorian villas.
Many of these villas which we can still see today were erected during the land boom of the 1880s.
Stonnington Monthly provides a convenient snapshot of all the important and fun news and events in your municipality. Simply sign up on our website to receive the latest news and information from the City of Stonnington right into your inbox.
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Key concerns for Cr Choudhury
Managing local traffic and parking are top priorities for Cr Choudhury. She’s also focused on ensuring the ward is accessible and safe for residents and pedestrians.
“These are the key issues I get contacted by residents about, but it’s also something I notice daily,” she said.
“I’d like to manage the on-street parking arrangements more effectively, slow down traffic and in turn, reduce unsafe driving behaviours while also making the streets and intersections safe for children and families.”
Although Chapel Street falls into the neighbouring Greville Ward, uplifting the precinct is another priority for her.
“It’s a big part of Council’s strategic interests and progressing a major transformation and masterplan for Chapel Street is important to me,”
Cr Choudhury said.
Do you have any memories of Orrong Ward?
Share them with us by emailing communications@ stonnington.vic.gov.au
↗ Leader of the Stonnington Chinese Association, Lai Leng Chee.
↗ Cr Samantha Choudhury in Victoria Gardens.
WARD
SOUTH YARRA WARD
WARD
WARD
WARD
WARD
Stonnington Wards WATTLETREE WARD
Meet your Councillors
Cr Melina Sehr JP Mayor
msehr@stonnington.vic.gov.au 0417 773 644
Cr Sally Davis
HEDGELEY DENE WARD
sdavis@stonnington.vic.gov.au 0439 946 122
WARD
Cr Tom Humphries
thumphries@stonnington.vic.gov.au 0448 835 318
DENE WARD
VALLEY WARD
The City of Stonnington's Council comprises nine elected Councillors, representing each of the city's nine wards – Como, Greville, Hedgeley Dene, Malvern Valley, Orrong, South Yarra, Toorak, Tooronga and Wattletree.
Cr Samantha Choudhury Deputy Mayor
schoudhury@stonnington.vic.gov.au 0447 758 691
Cr Jami Klisaris
jklisaris@stonnington.vic.gov.au 0427 333 471
Cr Jamie Bell
jbell@stonnington.vic.gov.au 0455 547 430
Cr Meghan Hopper PhD
WARD
mhopper@stonnington.vic.gov.au 0456 820 209
Cr Kate Hely
khely@stonnington.vic.gov.au 0436 460 829
WARD
Cr Steve Stefanopoulos OAM
sstefanopoulos@stonnington vic.gov au 0456 637 215
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