Stonnington News SPRING 2025

BUDGET

PLAYGROUNDS

GET READY FOR FOGO

Planning for our future

New spaces to play

New food and garden organics service

page 5

page 7

page 9

Chapel Street – better & brighter New Chapel Street Precinct Improvement Plan – page 3

SPRING 2025

stonnington.vic.gov.au

STONNINGTON NEWS / page 2

A word from the Mayor Planning for tomorrow, delivering today.

a more liveable, vibrant, inclusive, sustainable and well-governed city.

In recent months, we’ve continued to shape the future of our city through the adoption of Stonnington Tomorrow, our shared blueprint for the future that outlines where we’re heading as a community, and how Council will get us there.

Of course, great plans also require sustainable funding. That’s why we’re developing a new financial framework called Funding Stonnington Tomorrow, which will guide how we invest in the services and facilities our community relies on, while making sure Council remains financially sustainable into the future.

At the heart of this is our Council Plan 2025–29, a roadmap shaped by community input that details our focus over the next four years. It’s anchored in five key directions: creating

Among the many highlights of the past few months, I was particularly moved to attend our most recent citizenship

ceremony, where students from Armadale Primary decorated plant sleeves as a welcome gift for new Australians. Their creativity and thoughtfulness was a beautiful reminder of what makes our community special.

On behalf of Council, thank you for continuing to share your feedback and ideas with us. Together, we’re creating a stronger, more connected future for Stonnington.

Cr Melina Sehr JP Mayor, City of Stonnington

With 24 hours access, 7 days per week, community members will be able to submit and manage requests at any time. All requests will be provided with a tracking number, and following up the progress of the request will be as simple as logging into the portal to see its progress.

For more information: stonnington.vic.gov.au

We oppose the Victorian Government’s expanded congestion levy that will increase parking costs for council and non-council carparks west of Williams Road from next year.

This new tax will not fund any council works or active transport improvements in our community.

We have been working closely with six other councils to call for action on community safety.

In the lead up to summer this year, we are launching a new customer portal that brings together many of the high-volume customer requests into one easy-to-access portal.

This new portal has been developed as part of our digital transformation program, aimed at improving customer experience.

Standing up for residents, businesses and visitors.

We are standing up for residents, businesses and visitors and will continue to raise this issue with the Treasurer and work with local MPs to raise the issue in Parliament.

Customers will soon find it easier to apply for permits, pay bills or log a request with us.

Customers will find it quicker and easier to interact with Council, reducing the need to contact or visit Customer Service.

Advocating for you

This is not about congestion or environmentalism, it’s about revenue raising.

Transforming the customer experience

Together we wrote to the Police Minister, calling for support including an increase in policing in identified hotspots, youth crime prevention programs and support for Neighbourhood Watch.

As part of the new Chapel Street Precinct Improvement Program, our mayor wrote to the government and opposition calling for improved policing and an expansion of our current CCTV.

We’ve also asked for legislative reform to address anti-social behaviour and greater investment in homeless services and youth engagement programs.

We will continue to work hard to be a voice for our community.

Find out more: stonnington.vic.gov.au/ advocacy

Make MyStonnington your Stonnington Put Council services in your pocket with the free MyStonnington app.

MyStonnington features useful information such as bin collection day notifications, helpful tips on what goes in each bin and hard waste dates.

Stay up-to-date with our latest news and connect with our library services at the touch of a button.

Download the app at stonnington.vic.gov.au/ mystonnington

Reconciliation Acknowledgement Statement 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.

Your voice matters Share your thoughts on projects that matter to you at connectstonnington.vic.gov.au Have your say on projects open for community consultation and feedback.

Find out more about completed and in-progress projects

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Information and events in this publication are current at the time of printing. Subsequent changes may occur.

Cover image: Enjoying Iwagumi Air Scape by ENESS at Prahran Square.

Inset image: Chapel Street, Prahran.

page 3 / STONNINGTON NEWS

SPRING 2025

Pinpointing community safety Since launching in May, we’ve had a significant response to our Community Safety Map with more than 730 pin drops and 240 survey responses telling us where you feel safe and unsafe in our city. » More than 130 pins (20%) are concentrated within the Chapel Street precinct in Prahran. » Recurring themes across the municipality include concerns about poor lighting, anti-social behaviour and drugs, home break-ins and road safety.

↗ Iwagumi Air Scape by ENESS transformed Prahran Square in August, drawing crowds of all ages into the heart of the precinct.

A fresh start for the Chapel Street Precinct The City of Stonnington has formally endorsed a new, comprehensive Chapel Street Precinct Improvement Plan.

Comprising a $4.38 million investment in 2025/26, combining Special Rate Scheme funds, capital works, operational funding and external grants, to reinvigorate one of Melbourne’s most iconic destinations.

We’ve been hearing community and business concerns about Chapel Street loud and clear, and the data on our community safety map backs this up.

The newly endorsed plan takes a holistic approach to addressing these, with a targeted program of actions to support public safety, improve cleanliness and strengthen

business and community confidence across Chapel Street.

Key features of the plan include: » A precinct-wide marketing and activation campaign to attract visitation and position Chapel Street as a vibrant destination for retail, hospitality, culture and health and wellness. » Enhanced after-hours street cleaning and pressure washing. » A new outreach program delivered in partnership with community agency partners to support vulnerable individuals during the day. » A Chapel Street Place Manager to coordinate the program and act as a single point of contact for businesses.

» Continued collaboration with Victoria Police including joint patrols and advocacy.

One of the first outcomes of the new plan was the August installment of Iwagumi Air Scape by ENESS – an immersive art experience in Prahran Sqaure featuring towering light-up rock formations. Not only did this brighten and activate the square, it also created a buzz and increased visitation to the wider Chapel Street area, day and night, which was great for local business.

Read more: stonnington.vic.gov.au/ renewal

Joint safety patrols

Our team is now working on developing solutions to key issues such as lighting and road safety and we’re continuing our wider advocacy to State government for resourcing and sharing this intel with Victoria Police and local MPs.

REPORTING CRIME IS KEY Dropping a pin gives us useful intel, but it’s important to note it is NOT an official reporting channel. You must report all instances of crime directly to Victoria Police via their official channels.

In an emergency, to report a crime in progress, or to ask for immediate police attendance, please call Triple Zero (000).

For non-urgent reporting – visit the Victoria Police website More information:

police.vic.gov.au/report

Power in partnership In April, Council endorsed the next stage of our city-wide community safety response and voted to establish a Community Safety and Chapel Street Taskforce – a dedicated advisory body inviting health and housing experts, community leaders and agencies such as Launch Housing and Salvos to join forces.

Addressing community safety concerns takes teamwork.

That’s why our Local Laws officers have been working together with Victoria Police on joint patrols at Prahran Square and Chapel Street.

The team works together to respond to things like petty theft, public drinking and other antisocial behaviour.

Also offering outreach support to vulnerable people and engaging with local businesses.

By taking a proactive and coordinated approach with Victoria Police, we can respond faster and intervene more effectively to reduce antisocial behaviour and make the area feel safer for everyone.

» Areas respondents identified as safe were often described as having good lighting, strong visibility and a vibrant retail scene.

Watch the video to see how we're working together to make the Chapel Street precinct safer for everyone.

Our first meeting in July brought together key partners to discuss the priorities of the taskforce for the next 12 months. The meetings will be held bi-monthly and a report presented to Council by 30 November 2025 with recommendations on the expenditure of funding for community safety initiatives in the 25/26 financial year.

STONNINGTON NEWS / page 4

From rusting rails to native refuge If you’ve been down to Gardiner’s Creek (KooyongKoot) recently, you may have seen some extra aquatic activity.

environment can aid both physical and mental health, and Gardiner’s Creek is now a beloved space for walkers, cyclists, bush kinder and nature play groups, and native wildlife.

Malvern East’s Urban Forest Reserve, once an overgrown rail corridor, has officially turned 40 and to mark the milestone 100 native Southern Pygmy Perch fish were released into the northern pond of the reserve.

It hasn’t always been this way.

The fish release is the first of its kind for the City of Stonnington and is one small step toward protecting and enhancing aquatic biodiversity in the Gardiners Creek catchment.

Local resident and member of Friends of the Urban Forest, Faye Retchford is overjoyed with the way the area has evolved.

“Seeing how this serene pocket of bushland has evolved feels like we’ve made so much progress,” said Faye.

“My son helped plant the first trees here over 40 years ago. Now we have birds, fish and indigenous plants thriving.”

But it's not just about the bushland.

Spending time outdoors in our natural

Part of Melbourne’s Outer Circle Railway, the reserve sat idle after the line closed in the early 20th century before the former Malvern City Council proposed restoring the area to native bushland in 1979.

By 1985 1,200 indigenous trees and shrubs were planted by Council and community volunteers, and the Urban Forest Reserve officially opened.

Over the next couple of years, the health and population of the Southern Pygmy Perch will be monitored and, all things going well, some fish may be moved to other wetlands and ponds within the catchment.

The project is led by Council in partnership with Friends of the Urban Forest, Gardiners Creek (KooyongKoot) Regional Collaboration (GCRC), Native Fish Australia and Melbourne Water.

↘ I mages: Releasing Southern Pygmy Perch into Gardiners Creek (KooyongKoot), July 2025

Stepping up to make our streets safer During the first half of this year, you told us we needed to put measures in place to improve road safety on the streets of Stonnington.

So we’ve developed a Road Safety Improvement Program and to make our streets better for everyone by implementing a series of initiatives designed to make our streets not just safer but more inclusive as well.

In coming months, you’ll start to see 40km/h speed zones in sections of Malvern, Armadale, and Malvern East expanded. We will also be trialing 30km/h speed limits on Chapel Street, near local schools and on local bike routes.

New raised pedestrian crossings will be installed in busy spots like Toorak and South Yarra, making walkers more visible to drivers and reducing trip hazards.

This long-term strategy is already showing results.

In areas where 40km/h zones were introduced in 2012 and 2016, the total number of crashes dropped by 45 per cent.

Injuries among vulnerable road users like cyclists, pedestrians and those riding a motorbike also fell from 46 to 22 over the same time period.

With nearly one in three local trips made on foot or by bike, these upgrades support healthier, more connected communities.

Our focus on safer streets also aligns with the Victorian Government’s goal to halve serious road injuries by 2030 and work toward zero road deaths by 2050.

In Stonnington, safer streets are more than a promise – they’re a reality in the making.

IMPACT SPEED

SURVIVAL RATE

30

90%

km / h

60%

40 km / h

10%

50 km / h

Visit: connectstonnington.vic.gov.au/RSIP

Bins 4 Blokes

We’re teaming up with Continence Health Australia and Bins4Blokes to roll out a trial of incontinence product disposal bins across community centres and libraries.

Helping men with incontinence to get out and about.

More information and locations: stonnington.vic.gov.au/ bins4blokes

page 5 / STONNINGTON NEWS

SPRING 2025

Planning for our future: Stonnington Tomorrow Stonnington Tomorrow is our shared blueprint for the future.

Bringing together our Community Vision and Council Plan 2025–29, it sets out what matters most to our community, what we plan to deliver, and the overall direction we’re heading over the next four years.

What does Stonnington Tomorrow look like?

We asked people who live, work, visit, study or own a business in Stonnington to tell us what kind of future they want for our city.

Members of our People’s Panel 2025 worked tirelessly over the first few months of this year to review and update our existing Community Vision and ensure that it reflects our community aspirations for the future.

What was the People’s Panel?

Our People’s Panel 2025 brought together a group of community members that reflected and represented the diversity of people, ideas and opinions in our community.

They met online and in person over a two-month period and provided many valuable insights.

Thank you to all who were involved.

These insights helped us to develop the priorities and actions for our new Council Plan, identifying five key directions: 1

Livable city

2

Vibrant destination

Funding Stonnington Tomorrow If Stonnington Tomorrow is our blueprint for the future, Funding Stonnington Tomorrow is our financial roadmap to ensure we have the means to deliver on it.

Like many Councils across Victoria, the City of Stonnington is facing growing financial pressures. Due in part to the impacts of rate capping, cost shifting from other levels of government, insurance challenges and revenue loss since the pandemic, there is a widening gap between the income we receive from rates and the escalating costs to maintain important services – from roads and footpaths to sports fields, playgrounds and pools.

Our rates are amongst the very lowest in the state. This year there will be a 3 per cent general rates rise consistent with the Victorian Government approved rate cap, but combined with waste charges which have not increased from 2024, the average Stonnington bill has increased by just 1.85% – that’s an average weekly increase of just 75 cents per property.

The City of Stonnington’s average rates are lower than 71 of the 79 Councils in Victoria.

The conversation about key aspects of our future financial roadmap, Funding Stonnington Tomorrow, has begun.

This isn’t just about how we generate revenue. It’s about how we: » deliver services in smarter and more efficient ways » manage and use Council-owned assets to better serve the community » prioritise funding to meet evolving needs and challenges » advocate to other levels of government for increased financial flexibility and autonomy.

Read more about some of the potential options to build our funding capacity at stonnington.vic.gov.au/funding-stonnington-tomorrow

3

Thriving community

4

Sustainable environment

2025/26 Budget

Delivering on what matters for today and tomorrow

Our 2025/26 Budget sets out a $235 million operating program and $38.79 million for new capital works focused on delivering the things that matter most to our community.

It has been developed to address growing financial pressures while continuing to deliver high quality services, maintain key infrastructure and ensure we can deliver on our Council Plan 2025–29.

5

Focus areas

Well-governed organisation Together we’re working towards a modern, sustainable and interconnected community that supports the good health and wellbeing of all.

Keeping Stonnington moving Continued investment in core infrastructure such as roads, footpaths, bridges, buildings and drainage systems.

Enhancing open spaces Improvements to Gardiners Creek Trail, completion of Percy Treyvaud Memorial Park masterplan, the creation of Izett Street Pocket Park and some brand-new equipment at McArthur Playground and Connell Park.

A safe and vibrant city Investment to support the Chapel Street Precinct Improvement Plan, funding for Stonnington Zero and The Salvation Army to reduce homelessness and support vulnerable people across the city, as well as a new outreach program to support individuals on Chapel Street.

Climate smart Putting our Climate Action Plan into action and expanding our FOGO recycling service.

Read more at: stonnington.vic.gov.au/ budget-news Watch our Budget video to learn more.

STONNINGTON NEWS / page 6

Pickleball fever hits Stonnington The most exciting racket in town, Stonnington Pickleball Club is pulling in members from across the community.

The game combines elements from table tennis, badminton and tennis played on a court a quarter of the size of a tennis court.

Kimberly Strudwick, a founding member of the club was amazed at the sport’s popularity as 300 people signed up for the new club.

“It’s a grassroots sport, something you don’t see on TV, so the club’s success happened organically. Pickleball is addictive, it’s easy to pick-up but difficult to master and keeps drawing you back,” she said The draw of the paddle, while initially popular with Stonnington Seniors, has spread to children with demand from school-goers on the rise.

During Game On, Stonnington’s free indoor ‘come and try’ sports day, pickleball batted its way into the hearts of sports focused locals.

“We noticed at open days the kids gravitated to pickleball. We had lots of parents asking for more sessions

↗ T op image: Stonnington Pickleball Club members Anna and Kimberly.

Bottom image: Pickleball in action at Stonnington Sports Center.

but there wasn’t anything like it in the community. The sport is unique because it attracts such a variety of players from mums’ groups and children to people in their late 70s.

It can be competitive but it’s also very fun and social,” Kimberly said.

Club members can now access nine new pickleball courts at Margaret Connellan Stadium in the Stonnington Sports Centre.

The centre’s climate-controlled courts, accessible features and an onsite café make it a popular social hub in Stonnington.

For Kimberly it’s a chance to keep fit and catch up with friends across Stonnington.

“You don’t need to have great sporting abilities, it’s about getting together, getting out to the court and having fun!”

Come along to the weekly Active Stonnington pickleball sessions every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9am – 11am and 11am – 1pm.

Find out more stonnington.vic.gov.au/pickleball

ROOLA BOOLA Brings joy to thousands of local families.

Chapel Off Chapel was alive with colour this winter as the beloved Roola Boola Children's Arts Festival welcomed nearly 2,000 children and families through its doors.

From the enchanting sold-out performance of Snow White by the Victorian State Ballet to the wildly popular science show KABOOM!, the festival was bursting with colour, creativity and joy.

Little ones danced their hearts out at the interactive Play Date party, got hands-on with multicultural cooking and unleashed their imaginations through magic, circus, puppetry and art-making sessions.

The fortnight-long celebration of creativity and community left behind a trail of glitter, giggles and unforgettable memories.

11

30+

8

2,000

days of fun

venues

events

happy attendees

page 7 / STONNINGTON NEWS

SPRING 2025

Percy Treyvaud Memorial Park playground reopens after upgrade The playground at Percy Treyvaud Memorial Park has officially reopened, and it’s bigger, better and built for fun.

Designed to cater for children under nine, the upgraded playground features a fresh layout, new inclusive play equipment and improved amenities.

Key additions include monkey bars, parkour equipment, a new swing set, updated picnic seating and refurbished existing play sets.

The transformation follows community input on the draft design, which led to greater tree retention and additional seating.

We also upgraded drainage and installed new pedestrian paths.

Playgrounds, parks and plenty to love this spring

Come and explore the revamped park and enjoy one of our prized playgrounds in a brand-new way.

Unveiling Vista Grove: A new pocket park for Toorak!

From upgraded favourites to brand-new green spaces, our city is blooming with places to play, relax and explore.

Spring has sprung and so have vibrant new parks and playgrounds across Stonnington.

We've upgraded favourites like Percy Treyvaud Memorial Park and added some new additions like Vista Grove in Toorak as we deliver on our promise to create more welcoming, inclusive and green public spaces.

Above Alexandra Avenue, one of our cherished small spaces in Toorak has been transformed into an exciting new pocket park.

You’ll see new play equipment, picnic areas, walking paths and leafy outlooks in several brand-new public spaces.

Perched high above Alexandra Avenue, the park enjoys uninterrupted views across the Yarra River. Walkers can visit the park via Vista Grove or a footpath that runs up the hill from the corner of Alexandra and Verdant avenues.

Whether you’re exploring a pocket park with a river view or enjoying a refreshed playground, there's something to suit everyone in our community this season.

Boasting expanded garden beds, sleek seating, new footpaths and a paved seating area under the shade of the mature trees, it’s a charming new space for everyone to enjoy.

For the latest information on these projects, visit stonnington.vic.gov.au/projects

McArthur Street Park playground

William Street Park

Grattan Gardens new open space

9 Scott Grove Park, Glen Iris

McArthur Street Park playground in Malvern has been revitalised to delight toddlers and children alike.

We’re adding a new park at 17 William Street, South Yarra – adjacent to Lover’s Walk and South Yarra Siding Reserve.

We’re building a new open space and creating a green link between Prahran Square and Grattan Gardens.

Purchased in 2024, this 4,000 sqm site is being rapidly transformed into much-needed open space.

The site of the former Chris Gahan Centre in Grattan Gardens will be transformed into parkland, increasing the amount of open space within Grattan Gardens, eventually providing a connection to the Izett Street park.

Building demolition and site cleanup is underway to create the park, with trees being pruned and new grass planted.

The playground’s famous pencils are staying and we’ve added more seating and lots of new plantings.

Informed by community feedback, the refreshed playground offers tall and small play units, swings, a basket swing and wheelchair accessible carousel.

It’s an exciting new playspace for all to enjoy.

Construction is underway and follows a 2024 consultation when we asked the community for their views on concept designs for the new park.

When the park is completed later this year, visitors will be able to enjoy new seating areas, garden beds and feature lighting in the evening.

Once demolition is complete, a new lawn will be planted to provide community access while we invite feedback on the future design of the space.

While further park development including pathways, garden beds and lighting is planned for 2026, locals will begin enjoying the park’s lawn and seating areas this spring.

STONNINGTON NEWS / page 8

WHAT’S ON LIBRARIES

For more information: stonnington.vic.gov.au/library

School holiday fun

The Stolen

22 September – 3 October Join in the holiday fun with free and low-cost activities across our libraries this spring!

There is coding, cross-stitching, wooden constructions and sustainable Halloween decorations. We’ve also got Storytime, author talks and much more. Book your spots early so you don’t miss out.

Bookings open 1 September.

THE WINNER TAKES IT ALL: Exhibition 30 September – 19 October Throughout Prahan Sport, but make it fabulous!

This free outdoor exhibition transforms the streets of Prahran into a high-camp hall of fame, featuring dazzling portraits of community participants and art stars The Huxleys living out their wildest sporting dreams at iconic Stonnington locations.

CHAPEL OFF CHAPEL

American Psycho – The Musical 4 – 20 September Based on Bret Easton Ellis’ controversial novel and the cult film, this satirical thriller follows a well-dressed investment banker with a chilling double life.

With music by Tony Award-winner Duncan Sheik, the show fuses original music with 80s hits by Phil Collins, Tears for Fears and New Order. Don’t miss this thrilling journey into privilege, perfection and the cost of keeping up appearances.

Your digital afterlife

Wednesday 12 November 6.30pm – 7.30pm

Thursday 13 November 10.30am – 12pm

Toorak/South Yarra Library 30 Toorak Road, South Yarra

Malvern Library 1255 High Street, Malvern

Join us to hear bestselling author, Vikki Petraitis, in conversation about her latest crime fiction novel, The Stolen. Step into the dark heart of small-town Australia in this gripping follow-up to the award-winning The Unbelieved.

What happens to our online data when we die?

Free, bookings required

Free, bookings required.

New public artwork unveiled

Walking sports – come & try!

Mount Street Pocket Park 35–37 Mount Street Prahran Monument to the Overheard by artist Stephen Banham offers fragments of real conversations overheard at the Prahran Market in 2023. From phrases of motherly comfort to a discussion of beauty treatments, this installation investigates how cultural histories are recorded.

Our trainer from Ready Tech Go will explain what is meant by a Digital Legacy and how you can manage your digital assets as part of your estate.

Tuesday 14 October 10am – 11am Stonnington Sports Centre 32B Chadstone Road, Malvern East Low-pressure, multi-sport sessions for older adults and anyone keen to try low-impact social sports.

Come and try walking football (soccer), walking basketball and walking netball. Bookings essential: stonnington.vic.gov.au/active

Bookings and more information: chapeloffchapel.com.au

Rhythms Unleashed!

Saturday 4 October Rhythms Unleashed! is the unmissable gala event of the Australian Tap Dance Festival – a high-energy celebration where Australia’s top tap talent takes the spotlight alongside international and local guest artists.

Whether you're a tap aficionado or a first-time viewer, prepare to be swept up by infectious rhythms, dynamic choreography and the joy of making music with your feet.

Aussie to the Bone – Nathan Foley Friday 31 October ARIA, Logie, Mo, ACE and Helpmann Award-winning performer Nathan Foley (The Voice, original Hi-5) brings his powerhouse vocals and six-piece band to the stage for an energy-fueled night of music that’s pure Aussie gold.

This show is a non-stop musical ride through Australia’s greatest hits.

Jazz at the Chapel 20 – 25 October Melbourne International Jazz Festival returns to Chapel Off Chapel for five jam-packed days, featuring an outstanding lineup of international virtuosos, local stars and more. Don’t miss this captivating series of performances from some of jazz’s finest talents, all under one roof in the heart of Stonnington

page 9 / STONNINGTON NEWS

SPRING 2025

Get ready for FOGO Do you live in

an apartment or unit?

Help shape how FOGO could work for your building.

If you’re currently using Council waste bins, join our FOGO multi-unit dwellings trial to help us: » decide how many FOGO bins your building needs » find the most effective ways to promote and communicate the roll-out » identify and problem-solve any FOGO issues that may arise.

As part of a Victoria-wide initiative, we’re rolling out a universal food and garden organics (FOGO) service to households in Stonnington.

Later this year eligible standalone properties, including houses and some townhouses, will receive a green-lidded FOGO bin and caddy. Apartments and unit blocks will be included in the FOGO roll-out program from 2026. In the interim, we will run a FOGO trial this year for eligible units and apartment buildings to help guide our formal

roll-out for these properties. See details to the right for how you can participate.

Participating buildings will receive a free FOGO bin (for the duration of the trial).

Bigger, brighter and better than ever.

Once the rollout is complete, FOGO and recycling bins will continue to be collected fortnightly and garbage bins weekly.

Scan to join our FOGO multi-unit dwellings trial

After five years at Prahran Square, the Prahran Library has officially returned to its home at Prahran Town Hall – and locals are thrilled.

Using FOGO bins for all food scraps and garden organics minimises waste sent to landfill, cutting our greenhouse gas emissions and directly helping to support the creation of nutrient-rich compost for local farms, parks and gardens.

Find out more about FOGO: stonnington.vic.gov.au/ FOGO

The Greville Steet location has been made over with a fresh new look and offers twice the space of the Prahan Square site, with spaces to foster connection, learning, and creativity.

Golden years of care Half a century of smiles, support and community spirit for children with special needs.

The centre’s longest-serving volunteer, Joanna Brownell, joined the playgroup in 1986 and has proudly served her community for nearly 40 years.

This year, the Malvern Special Needs Playgroup will celebrate its golden anniversary as a cherished respite centre for children with special needs.

“I wanted to do something meaningful for my community, and the playgroup gave me a great sense of purpose.

It’s such a unique organisation – one of the only places where parents of children with special needs can leave their children for four hours and know they’re getting the care and support they need,” Joanna said.

The dedicated team of local volunteers ensures each child receives one-on-one support in a space equipped with adapted play equipment, sensory activities and music sessions.

PRAHRAN LIBRARY RETURNS HOME

The playgroup is led by a multidisciplinary team, including a physiotherapist, speech pathologist, occupational therapist and early childhood teacher.

“There is such a positive vibe in the playgroup, and some of the staff have worked here for over 20 years,” she said.

The group includes a wide range of volunteers, from people in their 30s to some in their early 80s and offers wraparound services. The playgroup is also the recipient of a three-year partnership grant from the City of Stonnington.

The group plans to celebrate its 50th anniversary this October with families and children.

“It’s a remarkable milestone. We are looking forward to celebrating it,” she said.

Playgroup sessions are held twice a week for four hours at the McArthur Street Maternal and Child Health Centre, with each session accommodating up to 11 children.

Find out more stonnington.vic.gov.au/ MSNP

↖ O utdoor play at Malvern Special Needs Playgroup

Inside the Greville Street Library, you’ll find expanded book collections, more study areas and public computers, and spaces for events.

Librarian Phil Costello said the move has been long anticipated – and deeply welcomed.

“We’ve had many questions about when we may be returning to the Town Hall, and it’s great to say that we’re heading back. The Town Hall has such a strong historical connection with the library” he shared. “We’ll be able to do more with the community – more workshops, more activities for kids, more chances for people to connect.”

The beloved Storytime sessions are returning, as well as Book Chat, digital learning programs, author talks and more.

And while the team is excited to be back, they look back on their time at Prahran Square fondly.

“We enjoyed being part of the Square and seeing the space come alive”, Phil said. “People would bring their kids to the playground, pop into the library, then head to the market or local shops. It became part of their daily routine.”

So next time you’re near the Prahran Town Hall and in need of a book, why not pop in and visit the new Greville Street Library?

We’d love to see you.

Learn more at stonnington.vic.gov.au/ prahranlibrary

STONNINGTON NEWS / page 10

Stonnington Engaged

Helping older adults stay active and socially connected.

Engaged offers people aged 55 years or older, people with disabilities and carers a variety of activities and opportunities to stay active and socially connected in Stonnington.

SENIORS FESTIVAL OCTOBER 2025 Connect, Create, Celebrate!

Celebrate positive ageing and take part in more than 25 free and low-cost activities this October across the City of Stonnington.

As part of this year’s Victorian Seniors Festival, join a month-long series of activities that will empower, entertain and engage seniors.

LGBTIQA+ seniors BBQ lunch & karaoke Saturday 25 October 11am – 2pm ositive Living Centre P 31– 51 Commercial Road South Yarra Join seniors from the LGBTIQA+ community, their allies, families and carers to celebrate this year’s Seniors Festival. Enjoy a delicious BBQ lunch and join in the karaoke and jukebox fun.

This is a free event. To register call Thorne Harbour’s Community Support on 9863 0426.

Super Stomper line dancing Monday 6 October 10am alvern Town Hall M Corner High Street and Glenferrie Road Malvern Join us for this supersized, fun fitness event. With sensational music to dance to, our line dancing instructors will ensure you have fun no matter what your level of fitness is.

All ages and abilities are welcome. There will be free giveaways. Don’t be shy, wear your cowboy boots and hat.

Enjoy a free barista made coffee afterwards. This is a free event.

To book, call 8290 3337 or email engaged@stonnington.vic.gov.au

Planning for your future How to recover from debt and scams Friday 3 October 10am – 1pm

hoenix Park Community P Centre, 22 Rob Roy Road Malvern East This session will explore what support options are available to someone who may experience debt and how to rebuild your finances after debt. Presented by The Financial Independence Hub. Enjoy a light lunch and refreshments. This is a free event.

Bookings on 8290 3337 or email engaged@stonnington.vic.gov.au

One Stage, Many Cultures Thursday 2 October 1pm – 3pm rattan Gardens G Community Centre Activity Room 40 Grattan Street, Prahran Come along to this vibrant and colourful singing and dancing cultural event and bring along your family and friends!

Celebrate the talents and traditions of our diverse communities by showcasing sensational singing and traditional dance from around the world. If you who love music and dance, this is the perfect opportunity to get up and join in. Stay for afternoon tea and free barista coffee. This is a free event.

Bookings on 8290 3337 or email engaged@stonnington.vic.gov.au

Keep up to date by subscribing to our digital monthly Stonnington Engaged newsletter.

Subscribe online with your email address at stonnington.vic.gov.au/subscribe

Pickleball Friday 17 October 10.30am – 12.30pm Orrong Park Tennis Centre 603 Orrong Road Prahran Come and try a free game of pickleball with a qualified instructor. Combining elements of tennis, badminton and table tennis, pickleball is a paddle sport you can learn in minutes and play for a lifetime.

It’s easy on your body and perfect for all ages and skill levels. Grab yourself a complimentary coffee at the café. This is a free event.

Bookings 8290 3337 or email engaged@stonnington.vic.gov.au

Little shoots, Big shoots Tuesday 21 October 2pm rattan Garden G Community Centre 40 Grattan Street Prahran Join us for a fun day of friendship and song as Lauriston kinder kids join with our senior singers for a special community event.

You’ll sing along together to popular songs, have afternoon tea and enjoy an afternoon of multigenerational fun.

This is a free event. Bookings on 8290 3337 or email engaged@stonnington.vic.gov.au

Malvern Town Hall charity dance Tuesday 21 October 12pm – 5pm alvern Town Hall M Corner High Street and Glenferrie Road Malvern Join the Windsor Senior Citizens Club as we celebrate the Seniors Festival with ballroom dancing, door and spot prizes, raffle for charity and a lovely afternoon tea, in friendly company.

Cost: $20. Bookings essential, call 0455 523 496.

Open Day at U3A Stonnington Murder, Art & Music Tuesday 14 October 9.45am – 2pm – 3 Valetta Street 1 Malvern Former Supreme Court Judge Bernard Teague AO introduces us to a world of crime, murder and the law. Followed by a journey through the art of Renaissance Europe and lunch with a hearty serving of orchestral brass. Along the way enjoy refreshments and see regular U3A groups in action.

This is a free event.

Bookings essential, call 10am – 1pm Monday to Friday on 9500 1288 or email mail@u3astonnington.org.au

For more events visit: stonnington.vic.gov.au/ seniors-festival To enquire about transport to Council events call 8290 3337

page 11 / STONNINGTON NEWS

SPRING 2025

Your feedback helps us deliver

Contact us 8290 1333 PO Box 58 Malvern Victoria 3144 Stonnington City Centre 311 Glenferrie Road Malvern

Your input is invaluable when we undertake community engagement.

It provides us with an understanding of your views and values, and helps us to make informed decisions, deliver better services and meet the needs of our community.

We regularly consult on a wide variety of topics, from strategies, plans and your experience as you interact with council services, to libraries and footpaths. Recent consultations include our new Council Plan and Budget, a range of playground designs and our Road Safety Improvement Program.

You can have your say in a number of different ways. This year we ran a representative People’s Panel along with pop-up sessions in parks, markets and train stations, and of course anyone in our community can provide feedback through our online portal at any time.

Prahran Square Customer Service Hub Chatham Street Prahran Square, Prahran

In the first six months of this year, we had a contribution increase of 63 percent from the same period last year – thank you to all the community members who have engaged with us.

Visit us online stonnington.vic.gov.au

If you’d like to get involved and have your say about what matters to you and your community, visit our Connect Stonnington page to take part in the latest consultations.

Or better yet, why not register and we will regularly update you on opportunities to provide feedback.

Request a service online at stonnington.vic.gov.au/ requestservice Report an issue on Snap Send Solve at snapsendsolve.com

Get social with us StonningtonCityCouncil

↗ Community members taking part in

Visit connectstonnington.vic.gov.au and click the ‘Join’ button in the top right-hand corner to create an account.

GREVILLE WARD

our People's Panel early 2025

TOORAK WARD

COMO WARD

StonningtonCityCouncil company/

city-of-stonnington

Access us If you are blind or have low vision, you can receive an audio version of Stonnington News delivered to your home.

Cr Melina Sehr JP Mayor

Cr Tom Humphries Deputy Mayor

Cr Meghan Hopper PhD

msehr@stonnington.vic.gov.au

thumphries@stonnington.vic.gov.au

mhopper@stonnington.vic.gov.au

0417 773 644

0448 835 318

0456 820 209

HEDGELEY DENE WARD

Cr Sally Davis

MALVERN VALLEY WARD

Cr Jami Klisaris

ORRONG WARD

Cr Samantha Choudhury

jklisaris@stonnington.vic.gov.au

schoudhury@stonnington.vic.gov.au

0439 946 122

0427 333 471

0447 758 691

Cr Kate Hely

TOORONGA WARD

Cr Jamie Bell

WATTLETREE WARD

Cr Steve Stefanopoulos OAM

khely@stonnington.vic.gov.au

jbell@stonnington.vic.gov.au

sstefanopoulos@stonnington.vic.gov.au

0436 460 829

0455 547 430

0456 637 215

About Stonnington News Stonnington News is published by the City of Stonnington. While every effort is made to ensure the information contained in this edition of Stonnington News is correct at the time of printing, details are subject to change.

Disclaimer The views expressed by individuals in this publication do not necessarily reflect the policy or position of City of Stonnington. Stonnington News is a publication of City of Stonnington Council for communication and information purposes, which may include communications from Councillors. The views and opinions of Councillors as democratically elected representatives of the community are their own individual views and opinions, which may not be reflective of the views and opinions of City of Stonnington Council.

© City of Stonnington

If you are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech impairment, contact us through the National Relay Service: TTY users call 133 677, then ask for 8290 1333 Speak and listen users, call 1300 555 727, then ask for 8290 1333

sdavis@stonnington.vic.gov.au

SOUTH YARRA WARD

Call 8290 1192 or email access@stonnington.vic.gov.au

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The paper is manufactured by an ISO 14001 certified mill, and all virgin pulp is derived from well-managed forests and controlled sources.

Where do my rates go?

For every $100 we spend:

$20.43 $8.73

Capital works

Waste services

$1.93

$5.68

Programs for families

Community programs

$0.79 Public health and immunisation

$6.99

$8.66

Events, public art & business support

Improving customer experience

$16.17

$5.97

City operations, transport & infrastructure

Town planning

$10.52 $4.50

Governance & administration

Community sport, recreation & pools

2025–26 Budget Highlights

$13.9 million

Core infrastructure (roads, footpaths, bridges and drainage works)

$0.37 million

Critical infrastructure renewal at Council aquatic centres

$2.5 million

Completion of Percy Treyvaud Memorial Park masterplan

$3 million

Open space improvements to the Gardiners Creek trail

$0.55 million

$0.65 million

Redevelopment activity at Prahran Market plus $3.5 million essential roof works and remediation of stormwater at Prahran market Installation of emergency back-up generator at Malvern Town Hall to support essential services and Emergency Relief Centre operations

$5.59 Open space & environment

$4.04 Council buildings & property

For information on how your rates are calculated and when or how to pay your rates, visit stonnington.vic.gov.au/rates