Stonnington News WINTER 2025

SUSTAINABILITY

REFLECTIONS OF A LIFETIME

WHAT’S ON

Composting for all

Meet a local centenarian

Upcoming winter activities

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Safer Stonnington Action on Community Safety and Chapel Street — page 3

WINTER 2025

stonnington.vic.gov.au

STONNINGTON NEWS / page 2

A word from the Mayor Coming into mid-year I am proud of the constructive strides Council is making for our community.

This winter, we are intensifying our efforts to improve safety, amenity and revitalisation across our city.

for more resources and tougher legislation to improve local safety.

Check out page 3 for more information on how you can be involved and have your say.

At its meeting on Monday 28 April, Council endorsed the creation of a Community Safety Taskforce. This taskforce will advise Council on community safety matters, oversee specific community safety initiatives and address community safety issues in our city, with a particular focus on the Chapel Street precinct.

We are also standing up for our residents, businesses, and visitors by opposing the State Government’s expanded Congestion Levy – a new and unfair tax on all paid public car spaces west of Williams Road that will significantly increase parking costs and take millions of dollars away from being invested back into our community.

People should feel safe wherever they are – throughout the day, at night, in shopping strips, public parks or walking home. The taskforce gives us a structured, community-informed way to prioritise safety and make impactful decisions. Our role is varied and includes crime prevention initiatives, making public spaces safer, advocating

Instead of staying in Stonnington to fund local services, this money will go straight to the State Government, with no clear benefit to our community. We support genuine congestion-reducing initiatives but oppose State Government imposing more unnecessary costs onto our community. We are committed to voicing our concerns and seeking alternatives.

Our priority remains the safety and wellbeing of our residents.

Our work also continues regarding the State Government's planning reforms, including the proposed ‘tram and train’ Activity Centres. We continue to advocate to the State Government for the best outcomes for the current and future Stonnington community, and we are pushing for an approach that is well designed, respectful of our local environment and preserves the community’s right to have its say on development.

Further, with every dollar carefully considered, we’re delivering a sustainable budget that protects today’s services while preparing for tomorrow’s challenges.

With the winter months ahead of us, please stay warm and do not hesitate to reach out to Council if you have any matters we can assist with.

Cr Melina Sehr JP Mayor, City of Stonnington

Let’s talk about Stonnington Tomorrow

Stonnington Tomorrow outlines what’s important to our community, what we’re doing and where we’re going in the next four years to work towards our long-term Community Vision, meanwhile the Budget breaks down how we’re going to fund the key objectives from the Council Plan over the next 12 months – the first chapter in our four-year plan.

Community priorities for Stonnington Tomorrow are clear: » investing in community safety » enhancing and developing more open spaces » revitalising Chapel Street » taking proactive steps to tackle climate change » ensuring long-term financial sustainability.

Investment in these key areas over the next four years will ensure Stonnington remains a great place to live, work and play for the years to come.

However, like many councils in Victoria, Stonnington is facing growing financial pressures because of the widening gap between rates income and the escalating cost to maintain important services like roads, footpaths, sports fields, playgrounds and pools.

Year by year, pressure has been building and our Budget has responded accordingly with cost savings, fee increases and service reductions where possible. However, continually cutting back isn’t a long-term solution if we want to maintain what makes our city great.

We’re now at a critical turning point and we need to advance a community conversation today about funding Stonnington Tomorrow, which will be the subject of formal engagement and future Council decisions later in the year.

Ensuring local voices are heard and reflected in government decisions.

The City of Stonnington recently gave evidence at the Victorian Government inquiry into new planning amendments, alongside Boroondara, Bayside and Whitehorse Councils. With our neighbour councils, we remain concerned that the state’s reforms, announced without consultation with councils or the community, will damage the liveability of our area and remove the rights of the community to have their say on developments. We are very supportive of housing growth and development, but it needs to be in the right areas near the right services and infrastructure.

Our submission to the Victorian Government’s Public Housing Inquiry focuses on the redevelopment of the Horace Petty Estate in Prahran. We’re advocating to ensure that residents are supported with the wraparound services they need to thrive – both during and after any transition.

We’ve also formally opposed the State Government’s proposed expansion of the Congestion Levy, including writing to the Premier and issuing a public statement on our website.

With recent changes to federal electorate boundaries and the abolition of the Higgins electorate, Stonnington is now represented across four federal seats. As our new members settle in, we look forward to working constructively to advance our advocacy priorities – from infrastructure and housing to climate action and community wellbeing.

– an update on our Draft Council Plan 2025–29 and 2025/26 Budget It’s been a busy few months working with the community to shape Stonnington Tomorrow – our updated Community Vision 2040 and Council Plan 2025–29, and 2025/26 Budget. The Budget and the Council Plan are two very important strategic documents that will steer our Council in the short to medium term.

Advocating for you

We will continue to stand up for the needs of our residents and ensure that Stonnington’s voice remains strong.

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

You can read more about the draft Budget on Connect Stonnington connectstonnington.vic.gov.au/ budget-2025-26

Stonnington Tomorrow, our draft Council Plan, will be shared with the community for feedback in July.

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.

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

Cover image: Council officers with local Police on Chapel Street.

Inset image: Our Clean Team hard at work on Chapel Steet.

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WINTER 2025

Safer Stonnington Separately, the proposed precinct improvement plan details some of the ideas we have to uplift our iconic entertainment strip – including how we'll support thriving business, design more welcoming spaces, reduce harm, and work with our partners to pave the way for a better, brighter future and a new era of Chapel Street.

The plan outlines immediate and medium-term ideas to support public safety and precinct activation including: » increased after-hours cleaning and graffiti removal » refreshed public spaces and infrastructure upgrades

↗ Increased street cleaning underway on Chapel Street.

Action on community safety and Chapel Street Addressing safety is a top priority for Council and the community.

The community is reporting growing concerns around crime, cleanliness and economic vitality and the message is clear – action is needed now.

At its 28 April committee meeting, Council endorsed the next stage of our city-wide community safety response and is now inviting feedback on our proposed Chapel Street Precinct Improvement Plan.

Designing out crime

Community safety is a shared responsibility and there is power in partnership, which is why Council voted to establish a new Community Safety and Chapel Street Taskforce – a dedicated advisory body which will invite health and housing experts, community leaders and relevant agencies such as Launch and The Salvation Army to join forces.

We’ll also continue our close working partnership with Victoria Police across the municipality.

» Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) reviews of public spaces, including Chapel Street and Prahran Square » community initiatives such as the Good Night Out project to support night-time safety.

However, Council can only impact community safety so much, and we know that action from the State Government is needed. In line with this we’re continuing to advance advocacy directly and with neighbouring councils, including calls for: » more frontline police presence in key activity centres » expansion of Safe City CCTV » greater investment in mental health, homelessness and youth engagement programs.

a.

Some important CPTED principles include natural surveillance (eyes on the street), maintenance, access control and activation. It’s more than just making an area look nice – it’s about making sure a space looks cared for, with good visibility, clear pathways in and out, and creating a buzz with a mix of activities attracting different groups of people.

This training will support an upcoming CPTED review of Chapel Street and Prahran Square to inform safety improvements to the public realm.

Community safety is an ongoing conversation, and your input over time plays a vital role in shaping effective, locally informed solutions and influencing our advocacy to partners.

More lighting needed in an alleyway?

Reporting a near miss incident?

We want to hear your thoughts, feedback, and experience of safety in Stonnington.

All feedback will be reported to the bimonthly Community Safety Committee – a meeting held every two months with key Council officers and local police.

It’s an opportunity to review crime statistics and discuss police operations as well as community and Council concerns about safety.

Matters outside the Council’s area of responsibility will be passed on to the relevant government authority on your behalf.

Safe, welcoming and vibrant public spaces aren’t designed by accident – it’s all down to a methodology called Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED).

One of the first outcomes from our community safety plan was a week-long CPTED training session for key Council officers. They’ll be applying these learnings about safe design right across the city – from planning and development, to landscaping, liquor licencing and events.

Join the conversation

b.

c.

PINPOINT ON COMMUNITY SAFETY

d.

CPTED principles in action: a. Candlelight Concert lights up Prahran Square after dark b. Outdoor dining in parklets creates a buzz and increases eyes on the street c. Artwork makes a space feel vibrant and cared for, and discourages graffiti d. Attracting diverse groups of people to a space deters anti-social behaviour

Show us the places where you feel safe or unsafe and add any suggestions on how they could be improved or what works well.

Share your thoughts here: connectstonnington.vic.gov.au/ safer-stonnington

STONNINGTON NEWS / page 4

ENBACCI Skin care with a conscience.

Nestled on a strip of lifestyle stores on High Street, Armadale, Enbacci offers a high-end skin care range with a unique point of difference.

Director, Yong-Li Zhou said that as a product-based business, Enbacci is aware of its contribution to overconsumption and the importance of minimising waste.

“Our products are based on fruit and stem cell cultivation processes, which support conservation projects that protect genetic biodiversity. We’re committed to fostering conscious consumerism through our products and disrupting the beauty industry.

Central Park Village Malvern East Central Park Village shopping precinct in Malvern East is a hidden gem for anyone who loves strip shopping and a more personal retail experience.

Its homewares, fashion and specialty shops are delightfully unique, offering one-off designs, sought after pieces and the kinds of little gems you’ll be cherishing forever.

Coupled with restaurants, cafés and bars that’ll keep you coming back time and time again, Central Park Village really is a must see. Here are just a few of our favourite local treasures.

“Sustainability isn’t just a consideration, it is an obligation.

That’s why we’ve committed to minimising waste at every stage of production, while also offering recycling solutions to our clients and the wider community,” she said.

Enbacci reinvests a portion of its profits into recycling partnerships, ensuring that every purchase contributes to a more sustainable future, but it also offers customers an over-the-counter drop-off point and is a collection point for hard to recycle items, like batteries, balloons or coffee pods.

Enbacci 552 High Street, Armadale enbacci.com

Norsu 148 Burke Road, Malvern East If you dream of beautiful homewares, Scandi-inspired interiors and colour palettes that exude comfort and cosiness, then you simply must visit Norsu Interiors.

Started 10 years ago by friends Nat and Kristy who bonded over their love of Scandinavian design, Norsu now sells everything you need to make your home even more special. The curated range of products encompasses everything from artwork to furnishings to fashion accessories.

Central Park Interiors 411 Wattletree Road Malvern East

Riserva Wine Bar 395 Wattletree Road Malvern East

Central Park Interiors was established in 1996 and over that time has been delivering high-end furniture and services to customers all over Australia.

Riserva, a wine bar and restaurant located opposite Central Park, has secured a firm place in the hearts of the local community since it opened in 2017.

In close collaboration with each client, Central Park Interior’s experts aim to create memorable interiors that express your unique personality and style.

Riserva draws inspiration from European dining and offers an approachable menu that changes with the seasons.

Use our Support Local guide to browse local businesses offering food and drink, retail, arts, fitness and a range of services.

Add your business to the guide stonnington.vic.gov.au/ local-business Would you like your business featured in Stonningon News?

Reach out to our Business Concierge. stonnington.vic.gov.au/

business

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WINTER 2025

Thomas Oval home to more than dogs this autumn

COMPOSTING

If you’ve visited Thomas Oval recently, you may have noticed piles of leaves being collected.

Between March and July this year, a temporary leaf storage compound has been set up as part of our ongoing commitment to sustainability.

Food waste drop-off trial

Food for thought

If you live in an apartment or town house or simply don’t have space for a food and green waste (FOGO) bin, you can now take your food scraps to even more community drop-off points.

Green bins are not just for garden waste.

For the next 12 months, we’ve added new community bins in Prahran, Windsor, South Yarra, Armadale and Malvern East.

Your food waste will be collected and processed into mulch by Stonnington’s composting facility Bio Gro, to be used in our parks and reserves. And if you’re lucky enough to have a garden, you can also buy the compost from a nursery.

This is a 12 month trial to see how effective the bins are, so make sure you check out the drop-off bins.

Learn more: stonnington.vic.gov.au/FOGO

COMPOST REVOLUTION Stonnington residents can access up to 60 per cent off compost bins, bokashi systems and worm farms through our partner Compost Revolution.

Learn more at

compostrevolution. com.au/stonnington/

In addition to traditional garden waste, all sorts of food scraps can be placed in your green bin for recycling. Food scraps add to the nutrients in compost and reduce landfill waste.

Food scraps you can pop into the bin include: » bones, meat, meat scraps or seafood » citrus, onion or garlic » bread, cakes or pastries » coffee grounds, coffee beans or loose-leaf tea » dairy and egg products » fruit and vegetable scraps » expired foods » pasta or rice.

There are however some food items that must not be disposed of in your green bin, as they can contaminate the composting process or attract pests.

These include: » coffee pods and tea bags » cooking oil

Small spaces can still have big impact Ever wondered how you can reduce your environmental footprint if you live in an apartment building?

Why not apply to join our Apartment Composting Program?

The program supports residents and owners corporations to set up a communal worm farm or composting system. It allows residents to share the benefits of composting and is a great option if the building has an outdoor space.

Stonnington streets are home to many beautiful leafy trees, so the large volume of leaves dropped each year presents us with an opportunity to use them in an environmentally friendly way. This autumn, as our street sweepers collect these leaves they are being stockpiled at the oval, before being transported to our recycling facility for processing into mulch.

The mulch will be used to nurture our parks and gardens, giving back to where it came from – gardens to ground, recycling to gardens… it’s the circular economy at work!

This year we’re expecting to collect more than 500 tonnes of leaves – that’s enough to fill almost one and a half Harold Holt swimming pools.

The program provides: » up to three free compost systems or worm farms for each apartment building » full subsidies on worm farms and solar composters » free on-site or online workshops and support materials » free kitchen caddies for participating residents.

» shellfish shells (such as oyster shells).

For a full list of what to do with your food waste, visit stonnington.vic.gov.au/FOGO

For more information and how to apply, visit stonnington.vic.gov.au/ apartmentcomposting

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

eNews Want to get your monthly fix of Stonnington news?

Sign up to our monthly eNews.

Sign up here

STONNINGTON NEWS / page 6

Welcoming back Prahran Town Hall Library The Prahran Town Hall Library is returning later this year!

Our pop-up library and community space, Study@Greville, closed its doors on 3 April to allow the space to be refurbished and expanded when we welcome the return of library services to the Prahran Town Hall later this year.

When the Prahran Town Hall Library reopens in mid-2025, it will allow us to offer expanded services such as children’s activities, library events and programs, more computers for public use and a larger library collection in one location.

Once the upgrades are complete, the Prahran Square Library will also relocate to the new space.

We’re excited to bring the library back to Prahran Town Hall and will share more news as the works progress.

Other libraries nearby Prahran Square Library Wattle Street, Prahran

For regular updates, visit stonnington.vic.gov.au/ prahranlibrary

Toorak/South Yarra Library 340 Toorak Road, Toorak

Who left the gate open?

Registering your pet could save its life.

Earlier this year, Animal Management Officer Chris was alerted to a lost dog on Henderson Avenue, Malvern.

“I received a call that an elderly dog had been seen wandering off lead and seemed a little disoriented, but she had her registration tag on, so I was able to find out how far she’d actually gone and reunite her with her grateful owners,” Chris said.

HAVE YOUR SAY ON

STONNINGTON NEWS Stonnington News is a free publication by the City of Stonnington delivered to residents four times a year.

We want to know what you want to read about in your newspaper!

Have your say stonnington.vic.gov.au/ feedback

Chris said that Daisy’s owners were unaware that Daisy had gone.

“They had some tradespeople at the property and the gate had been left open. If Daisy hadn’t been registered, who knows how far she would have wandered,” Chris said.

More often than not, wandering dogs and lost cats are found and able to be reunited with their owners due to being registered. It’s important to make sure your registration and microchip details are up to date, and outfitting your pet with an identifiable collar is also a great idea.

All cats and dogs aged more than three months are required by law to be registered.

Drop in to any one of our service centres to register your pet or visit stonnington.vic.gov.au/pets

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

Proudly Australian Art galleries, vintage stores, quality dining and a buzzing night-time economy led by trendy bars and clubs make Windsor the ultimate place to live.

So it’s not surprising that when deciding to become an Australian citizen, Ainslie Holmes chose to make Windsor her home.

Originally moving from Canada to Sydney for work in 2018, Ainslie started applying for citizenship during the pandemic but made the move to Windsor in May last year to be close to the city.

“We quickly fell in love with Windsor, which made our move to Melbourne so easy. I especially like how connected Windsor is to everything – and it’s never short on amazing new restaurants to try (my list keeps growing!),” she said.

how long I have lived here in Australia. I am proud of all the work I’ve put in and excited that I get to call myself Australian. I also think getting to be a dual citizen with Canada is pretty amazing too,” she said.

Many people live in Australia for a long time without getting their citizenship, some never at all. But those who do usually have a strong reason for getting it. Gaining her Australian Citizenship was crucial to Ainslie as it reflects her ongoing commitment to her adopted country.

Each year the City of Stonnington welcomes many new citizens with citizenship ceremonies, presenting them with certificates and a native plant they can keep as a reminder of the day.

“Getting my citizenship was important to me because it mirrors

More information stonnington.vic.gov.au/ citizenship

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WINTER 2025

Reflections of a lifetime approximately 73,000. A steady increase in population since the area was officially renamed City of Stonnington in 1994 has seen numbers grow to just over 114,000.

Watching Stonnington grow and thrive over 100 years.

South Yarra resident Beverly Batters will soon turn 101 years of age. She has lived in South Yarra almost all her life, raised her family here and has witnessed the transformation of Stonnington over this time.

Still living in a property a stone’s throw from Toorak Road that was purchased by her grandfather and had an outdoor toilet with no doors, Beverly recalls when Toorak Road had little traffic, no traffic lights, and ‘grocery shopping’ meant essentials like bread, milk, meat, fruit and vegetables (even ice!) were hand delivered daily to your door (a mid-century style Door Dash you could say!)

Population and economic growth in the area has meant more high-density apartments, retail, hospitality and service businesses, as well as entertainment venues, but Beverly still considers the area a wonderful place to live.

“I have enjoyed everything that the area has had to offer over the years, both old and new, I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else”, Beverly said.

In the 1920s, the combined population of the cities of Prahran and Malvern was

Beverly was officially recognised by the City of Stonnington in 2024 and awarded a certificate and centenarian lapel pin.

For more information about our Centenarian program visit stonnington.vic.gov.au/centenarian To learn more about your area visit stonnington.vic.gov.au/historycentre

↖ Beverly relaxing at home in South Yarra.

2025 Volunteer Awards Nominations for an outstanding volunteer or volunteer group are open until Friday, 4 July.

The City of Stonnington Volunteer Awards recognise and celebrate the incredible efforts of our volunteers who are making a difference to the Stonnington community and positively impacting others.

With more than 15,000 volunteers, we have a wealth of candidates to choose from. Our people happily volunteer for the many not-for-profit and community initiatives within our municipality and we look forward to celebrating them at our annual awards ceremony later this year.

Volunteering attracts people from all cultures and backgrounds and enables a diverse perspective and approach to community projects and initiatives.

We felt so proud to be the first inner city public high school to create a safe and inclusive multifaith room for both staff and students.

Caitlin Manyau 2024 Young Person Winner, Prahran High School Cultural Committee

Find out more and submit your nomination stonnington.vic.gov.au/community/volunteer-stonnington

↗ T op: 2024 Award winners

Bottom: Winner – 2024 Young Person Award

STONNINGTON NEWS / page 8

WHAT’S ON LIBRARIES WHAT’S YOUR STORY? 1 June – 31 July Our What’s Your Story? writing competition is back for another year, so fire up your laptop or pull out pen and paper and get writing!

Held annually by Stonnington Libraries since 2012, the open theme competition celebrates creative writing and storytelling within Stonnington.

Entry is free and there are fantastic prizes to be won.

Categories: Adult: Short story, poetry.

Youth: Creative writing: Ages 5 – 8 years, 9 – 12 years, 13 – 17 years.

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

DESIGN A BOOKMARK COMPETITION 1 – 31 August In celebration of Children’s Book Week (16 – 23 August), we’re calling on avid readers and aspiring artists to design a bookmark on the theme ‘book an adventure’.

Entry into the competition is free and book and art prizes are awarded in three age categories: 5 – 8 years, 9 – 12 years and 13 – 17 years.

One winner will be chosen in each category and winning designs will be printed onto a bookmark that will be available to collect from our libraries (while stocks last).

PHOENIX PARK LIBRARY 30 Rob Roy Road Malvern East

Scraptastic cooking Saturday 14 June 10.30am – 12pm Join permaculture and sustainability educator, Anna aka “The Urban Nanna”, to find out how to turn your food scraps into delicious meals.

Anna will demonstrate how to cook with food scraps and share some of her scraptastic creations.

This session will feed you information to help make the most out of your food scraps and weekly shop, and minimise food waste.

TOORAK/SOUTH YARRA LIBRARY 340 Toorak Road South Yarra

Get Connected: Tech Q&A Thursday 3 July 10.30am – 12pm Need help to find your way around your device or technology in general?

Bring your technology questions to this informal Q&A session.

Our trainer from Ready Tech Go will be on hand to answer frequently asked questions.

Free, bookings required.

Free, bookings required.

SCHOOL HOLIDAY FUN

Gail Holmes on: In the Margins

7 – 17 July

Saturday 2 August 11am – 12pm

School is out and the fun begins.

Stonnington Libraries winter school holiday program has a range of free or low-cost activities to keep children busy, engaged and entertained. With something happening in the libraries nearly every day, there’s plenty of fun to be had! Some activities are drop-in and some require bookings.

CHAPEL OFF CHAPEL

Bachelor Girl ‘Waiting for the Day’ Redux Tour 13 and 14 June Bachelor Girl’s ARIA-winning debut album Waiting for the Day is reimagined for its 25th anniversary.

Tania and James transform 15 tracks into pop/punk, country, soul and electronica. Don’t miss out on experiencing this celebration of career making songs and stories – a special 25th anniversary occasion, live.

Meet author Gail Holmes and hear about her debut novel In the Margins.

Inspired by real-life Frances Wolfreston, who lived and wrote in the margins of time, and who uniquely preserved the earliest part of Shakespeare’s legacy.

Free, bookings required.

Bookings and more information: chapeloffchapel.com.au

Two of Us: The Songs of Lennon & McCartney 4 July Darren Coggan and Damien Leith celebrate the songbook of John Lennon and Paul McCartney, in an acoustic portrait of songs that changed the world. The two-hour show includes back-to-back hits from The Beatles’ treasure trove of pop history, along with the richness and diversity of Lennon and McCartney’s solo careers.

Prince of the Violin – Patrick Roberts 19 July ARIA award-winning and Grammy nominated violinist Patrick Roberts is back with a brand new show!

Fresh from the success of his chart-topping album Fragile with Universal Music featuring Sting and Tommy Emmanuel, Patrick will take you on a breathtaking musical journey.

The Australian Barbra Streisand Show 28 – 30 July This is more than a tribute – it’s a heartfelt love letter to Streisand’s iconic career. Experience the magic of Barbra Streisand’s legendary career with Rachael Grace, as she brings to life the timeless hits that have defined generations.

page 9 / STONNINGTON NEWS

WINTER 2025

Oodles of fun at Pets in the Park!

Pets of all shapes and sizes were out and about at Pets in the Park 2025.

More than 4275 people and their pets visited Central Park, Malvern East to visit the 60-plus stallholders, all offering some fabulous products and services. They enjoyed a pet-friendly day of informative presentations, stalls, entertainment, competitions and much more.

On the main stage, Wildlife Xposure wowed the crowd with some curious

Australian lizards, snakes and marsupials, while Dr Nicole Rous and Animal Behaviouralist Lara Shannon provided some great advice on animal adoption, understanding dog and cat body language and solutions for allergy relief.

The highlight of the day, the Superstar Pet Competition, celebrated the many talented pets of Stonnington. We saw dogs turning tricks, jumping hoops and dressed to kill in the costume parade – think fairies to pirates and bumble bees to wizards!

International Women’s Day 2025 Local women representing more than 100 different businesses joined community leaders and attended this year’s International Women’s Day Breakfast, at Hotel Chadstone.

Special guest, acclaimed author, podcaster and gender equality advocate, Jamila Rizvi inspired guests with her key-note presentation, many commenting that her powerful messages of diversity, equality and inclusivity left a lasting impact.

Held in partnership with Chadstone, the sold-out event attracted around 200 guests and featured a pre-breakfast networking function aimed to help foster an uplifting atmosphere of empowerment, connection, and community.

The event inspired fresh ideas and created valuable networking opportunities, all of which can contribute to the growth and success of my business.

A fantastic celebration of women’s achievements and a great platform for growth.

Attending the International Women’s Day event was an incredibly valuable experience, both personally and professionally.

STONNINGTON NEWS / page 10

Stonnington Engaged Planning for your future workshops Join us for free workshops to help you plan for your future.

Limited seats available on the Community Transport Service (bus).

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

» Watch out, it’s a scam!

Monday 16 June 9.30am – 11am Grattan Gardens Community Centre 40 Grattan Street, Prahran

» Ask a funeral director anything Monday 14 July 10.30am – 12pm Phoenix Park Library Meeting room 30 Rob Roy Road Malvern East

» Writing your will Monday 4 August 9.30am – 11am

Grattan Gardens Community Centre 40 Grattan Street, Prahran

The Thorne Birds First Monday of each month 11am South Yarra location

Older LGBTIQA+ people and their carers and family are invited to socialise and connect in a welcoming and inclusive space.

Bookings essential, call Thorne Harbour Community Support 9863 0426 or email engaged@ stonnington.vic.gov.au

Tai Chi Tuesdays 9am – 10am

Prahran Square Izett Street, Prahran A gentle exercise to increase mobility, suppleness and mental alertness. Whether experienced or new, these free classes suit people of all levels and led by an instructor from Tai Chi Australia.

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

Meet U there Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday

Share a meal with friends in a welcoming local Stonnington eatery. Meet at a different place each day. Meet us there or book a ride on the Community Transport Service (bus).

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

U3A Stonnington Something for every Senior Monday to Friday Semester 2 (beginning 21 July) 1–3 Valetta Street, Malvern

Join a welcoming group of seniors and learn anything from the history of cricket to Japanese instruments, French language and conversation, health, art, poetry, Chess, Mahjong and more.

For details, enrolments and costs, call 9500 1288 or email mail@u3astonnington.org.au or visit u3astonnington.org.au

Prahran Place 40 Grattan Street, Prahran Bookings essential, call 9510 7052 or visit prahranplace.org.au

Healthy Bodies Get moving with Yoga, Zumba, and Walking Groups. A calming stretch, an upbeat dance party, or an energising walk – we’ve got the perfect class for you.

Art classes Explore creativity in our studio arts, watercolours, or NDIS Inclusive art classes.

Digital Essentials – Levels 1, 2 & 3 Supercharge your tech skills in a relaxed, supportive classroom.

Starting out or ready to level up to advanced classes, master these essential digital tools.

English classes Jump into our beginner or intermediate classes and improve your English language skills. Learn practical skills for everyday situations.

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.

Grattan Gardens Community Centre 40 Grattan Street, Prahran Bookings essential, call 8290 1333 or email engaged@ stonnington.vic.gov.au

Try a Tune Tuesdays – Community Singing Tuesdays 2pm – 3pm

Come along to a free feel-good singalong with others to lift your winter spirits and have some fun.

All singing abilities welcome.

Book a seat on the Community Transport Service (bus).

Ptolemei Association of Senior Greek Citizens from Egypt and the Middle East Friday afternoons 3pm Every third Sunday 1pm

The Greek community is invited to a cultural and social opportunity to have fun and make long-term friendships. Come and play cards, rummikubs, backgammon and take part in chair exercises, conversation and afternoon tea.

For costs and bookings, call Chrisoula 0422 659 805 or Nina 0412 243 748.

Stonnington Chinese Association Second and Fourth Sundays of the month 10.30am Fourth Thursday of the month 9.30am

Meet other seniors from Chinese backgrounds with limited English.

Enjoy social connections, day trips, and celebrate cultural events together, while encouraging English conversations. $20 annual fee and $2 activity cost.

Bookings essential, call Lai Leng Chee 0421 813 868.

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

Phoenix Park Community Centre

22 Rob Roy Road

Malvern East For information and bookings visit phoenixparknh.org.au

Zumba Gold Wednesdays and Fridays 9.30am

Zumba Gold is the perfect workout for older adults or anyone wanting a gentle, low-impact fitness class – no jumping, just great movement and music!

Led by a supportive instructor, enjoy these easy-to-follow dance moves in a welcoming and safe environment.

Session fee $8.

Pilates Flow Mondays 6.30pm

Achieve fitness goals safely with low-impact mat work designed to strengthen, tone, and improve flexibility while supporting overall well-being. Suitable for all levels, every exercise can be modified to match your ability.

Session fee $14.

Photography First Thursday of each month (excluding school holidays) 7pm – 8.30pm

Join a welcoming and creative photography group, exchange tips, and improve skills.

Whether it's digital, film, or just your phone, the focus is on photography, not the gear.

Learn how to get the most out of your equipment and join excursions. $5 per session.

For information about programs or to make a booking, call 8290 1333 or visit stonnington.vic.gov.au/ engaged Scan the QR code for more:

page 11 / STONNINGTON NEWS

WINTER 2025

How we listened

Contact us 8290 1333

5222

online views

We’re making parking a priority Our city is growing and the way we live, work and play is changing.

Parking and advocating for sustainable and enjoyable pedestrian, cycling and public transport options are important local issues for City of Stonnington residents, and you’ve also told us you want more trees, seating and wider footpaths.

Since May last year, we’ve undertaken a series of consultations including a survey, community workshops and some community pop-up sessions to help us better understand existing parking challenges and

your preferences for addressing competing demands.

Using the feedback and information that you provided along with benchmarking and research findings, we've developed a new Parking Action Plan, an updated Resident Parking Policy and Scheme, and an Activity Centre Parking Policy.

1101

online surveys completed

418

110

in-person conversations

Prahran Square Customer Service Hub Chatham Street Prahran Square, Prahran

Visit us online stonnington.vic.gov.au

Priorities identified:

Request a service online at stonnington.vic.gov.au/ requestservice

Accessible parking

Reassess paid parking in shopping areas

Report an issue on Snap Send Solve at snapsendsolve.com

Get social with us StonningtonCityCouncil

Pedestrian access and safety

Learn more and give feedback: connectstonnington.vic.gov.au/PAP

GREVILLE WARD

Stonnington City Centre 311 Glenferrie Road Malvern

maps marked

Now we’d like to hear from you again.

Do we have it right? Is there something we have missed?

PO Box 58 Malvern Victoria 3144

TOORAK WARD

Restrict speed limits and introduce one-way traffic flow around schools

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

We speak your language Mandarin

9280 0730

Cantonese

9280 0731

Greek

9280 0732

Italian

9280 0733

Polish

9280 0734

Russian

9280 0735

Indonesian

9280 0737

Vietnamese

9280 0748

All other languages

9280 0736

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