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Kingston Your City - Autumn 2026

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kingston.vic.gov.au

cityofkingston

kingstoncouncil

kingstoncitycouncil

info@kingston.vic.gov.au

PO Box 1000, Mentone, 3194

Bunurong Country

CUSTOMER CARE

1300 653 356

COUNCIL MEETINGS

Next meeting is: Monday 23 February. All other meeting times and dates and the link to live stream a meeting can be found on our website.

KINGSTON YOUR CITY EDITOR comms@kingston.vic.gov.au

Kingston encourages you to reprint articles and photographs from this publication, however permission must first be sought from the Editor. Acknowledgement of the source must be provided.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

The City of Kingston proudly acknowledges the Bunurong People of the Kulin Nation as the Traditional Owners and custodians of this land, and we pay our respect to their Elders, past and present.

COVER PHOTO

Headliner crowd at Mordi Fest.

Reaching new heights at Mordi Aquatic Centre

The new Mordi Aquatic Centre has passed a major milestone, with construction now more than 50 per cent complete.

The building is really taking shape, with the roof now on and major structural works finished. Large timber beams have been installed across the pool hall, and roofing, cladding and internal works are continuing.

All four pools, including the 50-metre lap pool, warm water pool, learn-to-swim pool and leisure pool, are now fully formed, along with key internal structures such as the main staircase.

Mayor Cr Georgina Oxley

0429 222 504 I georgina.oxley@kingston.vic.gov.au

Happy New Year!

I’m incredibly honoured to have been re-elected as Mayor for my fourth term and to continue serving our wonderful community. It is a privilege to represent Kingston, and I’m grateful for the trust that’s been placed in me once again.

I look forward to working with my fellow councillors, community groups and residents to keep delivering the services, facilities and opportunities that make Kingston such an awesome place to live.

One of the highlights of the past season was our Carols by Kingston event, which drew a record crowd to Bicentennial Park.

Seeing families, friends and neighbours come together to celebrate the festive season in such a joyful and relaxed setting was truly special. A huge thank you to everyone who joined us, and to the many staff and performers who helped create a magical night right here in the heart of our community.

I’m thrilled about the Chelsea Heights precinct revamp. We are revitalising

In addition to the four pools, the new centre will also feature a spa, sauna and steam room, gym and fitness facilities, café, modern change facilities and parking.

Located next to Jack Grut Reserve on Governor Road, the new centre is a major investment in community health and wellbeing.

Construction is on track for completion by the end of the year.

strip, upgrading Heights Park and installing traffic signals to improve the safety of pedestrians and cyclists who need to cross Thames Promenade and Fourth Avenue in Chelsea Heights. It will make a huge difference!

As we move further into the year, there’s plenty more to look forward to. Mordi Fest is just around the corner, and it promises to once again bring the Mordialloc foreshore to life with live music, delicious food, market stalls and activities for all ages. It’s one of Kingston’s signature events and a favourite for locals and visitors alike.

Whether it’s celebrating major community events, planning for the future, or supporting the day-to-day things that matter most to residents, I’m excited for the year ahead and proud to continue leading our vibrant, connected and resilient Kingston community.

the Thames Promenade shopping

Helping shape an even better Kingston

Thank you to everyone who has shared ideas through Talking Kingston – our always-on community consultation, feeding directly into the annual budget process.

Your feedback, from over 600 submissions, is helping shape our plans for the future and make Kingston an even better place to live. We loved getting out and about across Kingston – popping up in busy locations, connecting with residents, and hearing your ideas.

What we’re hearing

You’ve told us you’d like to see your rates invested in local priorities, including parks and open spaces, footpaths and basic infrastructure, waste and recycling, traffic and pedestrian safety, sport and recreation facilities, cycling and walking paths, and more vibrant shopping strips.

We’ve also received plenty of positive feedback about Council services, events, libraries and the chance to have a say – thank you!

All submissions received by 31 December 2025 are now being used to develop our Draft Budget 2026/27. Keep an eye on yourkingstonyoursay.com.au – the Draft Budget will be released in late March, before it is adopted in May.

Investing in safer roads and better drainage in the south of Kingston

We are investing strongly in essential infrastructure, with two major road and drainage upgrades planned.

In Chelsea, a section of Embankment Grove and all of Mulkarra Drive will undergo a full road reconstruction.

New drainage pipes and pits will also be installed along Mulkarra Drive and a section of Embankment Grove, improving stormwater management and reducing flooding risk. Footpaths, vehicle crossings and kerbs and traffic islands will also be removed.

Further south in Bonbeach, Broadway will undergo a full road

reconstruction between Station Street and Fowler Street with new asphalt pavement, new drainage infrastructure and replacement of ageing concrete footpaths, vehicle crossings, kerb and channel.

This will enhance safety for pedestrians, drivers and cyclists and improve drainage.

All of these projects are an investment of more than $10 million in local roads and drainage, reflecting our ongoing focus on renewing critical infrastructure, responding to changing conditions and ensuring safe, functional and future-proofed streets.

If you have a great idea for future budgets – let us know!

Visit yourkingstonyoursay. com.au/talking-kingston

0499 770 523 sarah.odonnell@kingston. vic.gov.au

After a wonderfully busy summer across Kingston, I want to extend my sincere thanks to everyone who helped make the season such a success.

Our beaches were bustling with families, locals and visitors enjoying the sunshine, and our traders once again created a vibrant atmosphere right across our foreshore and activity centres.

A special thank you goes to our dedicated lifesavers, whose vigilance and professionalism kept our community safe during some of our busiest days. Their commitment is truly appreciated.

As we move into autumn, I’m thrilled to turn our attention to one of my favourite events of the year — the Kingston Women of the Year Awards.

This year we received an incredible list of nominations, showcasing the inspiring women who strengthen our community through leadership, compassion, creativity and advocacy. I’m very much looking forward to celebrating all of our nominees and learning more about their achievements at the awards ceremony in March.

Supporting and championing women in community leadership is something I am deeply passionate about.

Whether it’s in local business, volunteer groups, sport, or civic life, increasing female participation brings diverse perspectives and stronger outcomes for everyone. I’m proud that Kingston continues to recognise and elevate these contributions, and I’m excited to see more women step into leadership roles across our community.

I hope you enjoy this edition and the many great things happening across Kingston this autumn.

PUTTING KINGSTON FIRST

We’re always advocating for the Kingston community, and we’re getting results.

Recently we won a grant for $2.5m from the Commonwealth Government to pay half the cost of converting Waves to all-electric. The conversion will cut annual C02 emissions by 1,100 tonnes, reducing overall energy consumption, saving money and keeping the temperature more consistent year-round.

In other news:

• We recently opened the beautiful new resurfaced bowling greens at Mordialloc Bowls Club, thanks to $350,000 from the Victorian Government.

• The Bentleigh Greens Soccer Club, based at Kingston Heath, will get an additional new playing

YOUR COUNCILLORS

Cr Caroline White

0499 776 885 I caroline.white@kingston.vic.gov.au

It’s been wonderful to welcome Hawthorn Football Club to our neighbourhood in Dingley Village.

Over recent months many of you have visited the new facility — at the opening, members days and open training sessions — and the energy has been fantastic. This year, we’re excited to see Council’s investment unlock 20 hours a week of community use. Local clubs and groups will have more time on the field and in the pavilion, helping sport and community life to thrive.

I’ve also been discovering some of the many different activities on offer each week at Dingley Village Library. There is a great line-up for all ages.

Here’s just a taste:

• STEAM Club runs every week for primary school children. Each session explores Science, Technology,

field to support the growth in women and girls soccer, following $1.3m from the Commonwealth Government.

• The Hawthorn Football Club officially opened its new Dingley Village HQ with significant contributions from all three levels of government. Our contribution ensures the community has access to these amazing facilities for regular sport and leisure activities. We’ve also been working with our State MPs to make sure Kingston gets its fair share in this year’s Victorian Budget in May. Watch this space!

With a state election coming in November this year, we’ll be working to make sure every candidate standing for election puts Kingston First.

Engineering, Art or Maths. Kids get to design, build, problem solve and create.

• Book Group offers small, friendly discussions led by library staff, running monthly at Dingley Village. If you prefer to join from home or at a time that suits you, Kingston Libraries also hosts an online book group —perfect for flexible participation. Drop in, say hello and ask the library team about dates and how to join.

Our libraries are welcoming, free, and a great way to meet people and learn new things.

I look forward to seeing you around the Village — on the oval, in the pavilion and at the library. library.kingston.vic.gov.au

Council and Dingley Village are calling for urgent changes to the former Kingswood golf course housing development – and it’s not too late for the Victorian Government to hear the voice of the community.

For years Council and the community have called for changes. In 2018 we refused permission to rezone the site for housing, but the Victorian Government over-ruled to approve the 900+ development.

We had appealed to VCAT to try to achieve some improvements and unfortunately due to confusion over the legal timeline, the tribunal refused to hear the case despite it regularly allowing time extensions. However, the Planning Minister can still step in.

We refuse to accept poor planning and inadequate infrastructure and continue to stand with our community to fight for:

• a key pedestrian/cycling link from the Kingswood site to Marcus Road

• vital flood mitigation water retarding basins are wellmaintained, but without placing added burden on ratepayer funds

• wider roads and laneways

• improved open space plus tree and wildlife habitat protection

• adequate community and active recreation infrastructure contributions.

Add your voice calling on our local MPs and the Minister to help secure improvements before it’s too late at:

kingston.vic.gov.au/kingswood

CARUANA WARD

Taking care of our local shopping strips

Edithvale revitalisation nearing completion

A major $3.3 million revitalisation of Edithvale Shopping Village is on track to finish this autumn.

Spanning 11 blocks along Nepean Highway, it will have new footpaths, improved accessibility and drainage, new landscaping and street furniture, creating a vibrant precinct.

kingston.vic.gov.au/ edithvale-revitalisation

KINGSTON’S

Cavanagh

Street upgrade

A $300,000 upgrade of Cheltenham’s Cavanagh Street shopping strip will include new seating, bins, bicycle hoops, landscaping, a new accessible parking bay and widened footpaths.

Picnic table and seating will be added near Frank’s Café and the phone booth relocated.

kingston.vic.gov.au/ cavanaghstreet-revitalisation

Parkdale shopping strip refresh

Thanks so much for your feedback! We’re using your input to help develop a draft concept plan for the shopping strip revitalisation. We look forward to sharing it with you later this year!

yourkingstonyoursay.com.au/ parkdalerevitalisation

Kingston’s free and family-friendly Pet Expo is back in 2026!

Save the date and join us for a day of pet competitions, kids’ activities, demonstrations, and interactive talks - and to find out more about all of the pet-related services we offer its residents.

YOUR COUNCILLORS

Cr Kirralee Ashworth-Collett

Saturday 28 March 9am–1pm

Kingston Heath Reserve, Cheltenham kingston.vic.gov.au/petexpo

YOUR COUNCILLORS

Cr Jane Agirtan

0499 770 391 jane.agirtan@kingston. vic.gov.au

G’day neighbours!

We’re pressing ahead with plans for a new Pitch 5 at Kingston Heath Reserve, with detailed designs now underway.

The project will deliver a natural turf soccer pitch with sports lighting at the Kingston Heath Soccer Complexa much-needed boost to support the continued growth of women’s and girls’ football.

0484 605 156 I kirralee.ashworth-collett@kingston.vic.gov.au

In just over a year serving as a councillor, some of the most impressive people I’ve met have been our local young people. Kingston’s Youth Voice working group brings together teenagers and young adults to advise council on the issues thvat matter to them, helping shape decisions across Kingston. I often leave their meetings feeling inspired (and a little in awe) by the clarity and intelligence they bring. Our future is in excellent hands!

If you have people aged 12 to 25 in your life, I’d encourage them to check out Platform 81 in Mordialloc, the home of Kingston Youth Services. It’s a welcoming space offering programs for those connected to Kingston. The rockstar team at Kingston Youth Services also does practical work across schools and the wider community, providing training, events, and support where it’s needed. One exciting event coming up is Kingston Youth Fest — a free, drug, alcohol and vapefree celebration with music, workshops, a skate and scooter competition, and food trucks.

It’s on Sunday, 29 March at Chelsea Skate Park. I’ll be cheering from the sidelines and definitely leaving the tricks to the pros.

There’s always something happening, so hop onto kingstonyouth.org.au and see what’s on.

It’s also been great to see the Edithvale Shopping Village coming to life as the final touches are added, with new footpaths, landscaping and seating. These upgrades have given the area a fresh lift and hopefully just the boost needed to see some of those empty shops buzzing again.

Thank you to our traders and community for your patience. I’m looking forward to seeing the finished result in the coming months. You can follow the final steps of the project at: kingston.vic.gov.au/ edithvale-revitalisation

And before anyone asks: yes, the funding is locked in. The project includes a $1.5 million Federal Government Play Our Way grant, a $100,000 contribution from Bentleigh Greens Soccer Club, and up to $800,000 from Council, bringing the total estimated cost to $2.4 million.

A genuine thank you to everyone who took part in consultation in late 2025. Your feedback wasn’t just “noted” — it shaped the final design.

That means no perimeter fencing so the space remains accessible outside organised sport, low fencing to keep balls where they belong, the pitch staying dog-on-leash, plus a drinking tap and improved path lighting. Practical, sensible, and community minded.

We’re also deep in the work of finalising Council’s 2026/27 Budget. As a chartered accountant, this is my comfort zone.

My focus is simple: every ratepayer dollar must work hard, be spent transparently, and deliver real value - not fluff. Thank you to the 670+ residents who had their say and helped set the direction for investment in their neighbourhoods.

SANDPIPER WARD

Mordi Fest is back

celebratiNg all thaT makEs kingsTon greAt

Everyone’s favourite local festival returns to the Mordialloc foreshore with two unforgettable days of live music, delicious food and relaxed summer fun by the sea.

Across Saturday (28 February) and Sunday (1 March), the foreshore will come alive with a sensational collection of great acts performing over three stages, with the best of Australian live music drifting out across Port Phillip Bay.

This year’s headline acts promise something special for music lovers of all ages,

with indie favourites Teenage Dads taking to the stage on Saturday night, followed by Australian music royalty Joe Camilleri and The Black Sorrows headlining Sunday.

Teenage Dads have built a devoted national following with their energetic live shows and catchy indie-pop sound, while Joe Camilleri and The Black Sorrows bring decades of iconic hits and timeless blues and soul to close out the festival in style.

As always, Mordi Fest is about more than just the music.

Festival-goers can enjoy fabulous food trucks, tasty local beers and wines, and a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere that captures the very best of summer on the bay.

An alcohol-free, family-friendly zone ensures there’s something for everyone, making Mordi Fest the perfect event for families, friends and visitors alike.

Whether you come for the headline acts, to discover new local talent, or simply to soak up the atmosphere by the water, Mordi Fest is a must-do on Kingston’s events calendar.

Sat 28 Feb | 11am–10pm Sun 1 March | 11am–7pm

Peter Scullin Reserve, Mordialloc

GETTING TO MORDI FEST

Walking, cycling or via public transport is the best way to get there.

Mordi Fest is a short walk from Mordialloc Train Station. Buses 705, 706, 708, 709, and 903 all go to Mordialloc.

Plan ahead: ptv.vic.gov.au

FOOD AND DRINKS

Food trucks, licenced sites, and more! Wander the festival site and savour what’s on offer.

For event information and for the full performer lineup visit: SATURDAY HEADLINER TEENAGE DADS

There will also be free water stations dotted throughout to keep you hydrated. SUNDAY HEADLINER

Cr Georgia

Erevnidis

0499 778 524

georgia.erevnidis@kingston. vic.gov.au

Welcome into 2026!

It’s been a big year, adapting to Council and advocating for Wattle Ward.

Highett buzzed with a great Christmas vibe, with families visiting Highett Village to interact with Santa and the singing Elves. The brandnew Christmas trees (all the way to Nepean Highway) added to the joy.

Recently, we’ve been designing Follet Road Reserve upgrades (including a playground upgrade) completed the Chesterville Road pram-crossing and continued the renewal of critical assets at Waves.

Construction of a new footpath along Reeve Court Cheltenham will start this autumn, improving pedestrian safety and connections with Southland and nearby path networks.

We’re investing $2.8m, alongside a $2.5m federal government grant, to electrify Waves Leisure Centre. Switching from gas to electric will save ratepayer dollars over time.

As a keen gardener, I’m keen to promote the health and wellbeing benefits of gardening. Our wonderful Gardens for Wildlife Program supports residents of all types of housing, in creating wildlifefriendly gardens. Have a look at kingston.vic.gov.au /gardens-for-wildlife.

Last year I held four ‘Meet ‘n Greets’ in Wattle, connecting with locals. I love these and will continue them. I’d love to hear your thoughts on improving our neighbourhoods.

Check out locations/dates on community hubs, kingston.vic.gov.au and my Facebook page. Can’t wait!

0437 913 851

Whether I’m taking my Golden Retriever for a swim on a warm day or enjoying a walk on the sand, our beaches are a big part of daily life in Kingston.

With the mercury hitting the 30s and even the 40s on multiple days this summer, it’s been another busy season on the foreshore, showing just how much our community loves spending time by the water.

That said, not everyone has been able to enjoy a trip to the seaside in years gone by, which is why I’m so pleased with the work Council has been doing to make our foreshore more accessible.

We’ve delivered Changing Places toilets in Carrum, Mordialloc and at Mentone LSC, along with new DDA-compliant paths providing better access to beaches.

We’re now trialling accessible beach matting to help make it easier for more people to enjoy the sand and sea. The durable matting has been designed to withstand regular beach raking operations.

Come down, try it out and let us know what you think. Your feedback will help shape the future of accessibility at our beaches. Visit yourkingstonyoursay. com.au.

We’ve just launched a newsletter dedicated to our beautiful foreshore. You can sign up at kingston. vic.gov.au/foreshore-newsletter I continue to strongly advocate for our community as the State Government progresses planning work for the Mentone Activity Centre.

While Council isn’t the planning authority, I’ll work closely with our officers to try and ensure local voices are heard and what residents value most about Mentone is protected – please register to be kept up to date at engage.vic.gov.au/project/ activity-centres-program-stage-two/ page/mentone

Something for everyone at our community hubs

There’s so much to do, here in Kingston

Pick up a new hobby this year at a community centre near you!

Kingston’s community centres are a great place to unleash your creativity, try a dance, art or exercise class, meet people and try something new.

All ages and abilities welcome.

Find a community centre or hub near you and view the program timetables at: kingston.vic.gov.au/ community-hubs

Quality care for our seniors.

Our AccessCare team has 30+ years of experience providing in home support. Speak with us to explore the services and packages we provide.

Call 1300 819 200 or visit accesscare.org.au

LET US ENTERTAIN YOU THIS AUTUMN

SUNDAYS ARE ABOUT THE SOUNDS

Kingston Arts welcomes back Live at City Hall: Sunday Sounds, a series of free, family-friendly live music events.

Bring your own picnic platter and come along for a laid-back afternoon - soak in the tunes while the kids enjoy some free activities. Presented in partnership with PBS 106.7FM.

Sunday 22 February

Sunday 22 March

Sunday 19 April

2pm–4.30pm

City Hall, Moorabbin

YOUR COUNCILLORS

Cr Hadi Saab

0437 885 142 I hadi.saab@kingston.vic.gov.au

Kingston’s diversity is one of the greatest strengths of our community, and it continues to be a big part of what makes our city such a vibrant and welcoming place to live. Supporting and celebrating that diversity remains a key priority for Council, and I’m proud of the work underway to ensure everyone feels respected, included and heard.

Our draft Reconciliation Strategy is now out for community consultation, and I encourage everyone to take a moment to read it and share their feedback. This is an important step in strengthening our

ARTS BLITZ IS BACK FOR 2026

Artz Blitz is back again this year.

The ultimate 24-hour creative challenge, this fun competition is a race against the clock.

You have 24 hours to make and submit a creative work based on a secret theme. Entries are open to all ages and skill levels, with fantastic prizes up for grabs across categories like visual art, poetry and creative writing.

Registrations open on Monday 30 March and the theme will be revealed on Friday 8 May at 4pm.

All works will be on display at the Kingston Arts Centre from Friday 22 May – Saturday 20 June. The awards night is on 27 May.

LAUGHS AT THE SHIRLEY

Once again 2026 is looking fabulous for laughs with Comedy at the Shirley showcasing many well-known comics and rising stars from Australia and around the world.

Comedy at the Shirley is at Shirley Burke Theatre in Parkdale and sells out fast so be sure to get in early and book your tickets.

Shows from Friday 13 March

For more information and pricing on our 2026 programs and events, visit kingstonarts.com.au

relationship with First Nations people and advancing meaningful reconciliation across Kingston.

March also brings Cultural Diversity Week, a wonderful celebration of the many cultures, languages and traditions that shape our community.

I really look forward to the energy and colour this week brings each year, and proud that we have a great range of events for our community to enjoy.

We’re also heading into a fantastic season at Kingston Arts, with our theatres, galleries and creative spaces offering something for

all ages and interests — from live music and comedy to exhibitions, performances and hands-on workshops. These spaces are at the heart of community connection, providing opportunities to come together, share stories and enjoy the incredible creativity found right here in Kingston.

I hope to see you out and about enjoying everything our diverse and dynamic community has to offer this autumn.

YOUR COUNCILLORS

0499 776 893

chris.howe@kingston. vic.gov.au

BANKSIA WARD

Your voice in local issues is important, whether it is via consultative actions, feedback, reviews or community meetings. Register on yourkingstonyoursay. com.au to stay informed. Recently these have included:

• Thompson Road Traffic issues. Thank you to everyone who either responded to the survey on Thompson Road or dropped into the Community Centre to share their thoughts and concerns. The comments and feedback given will help shape what happens next.

• Learmonth Reserve. A consultation has been conducted on Your Kingston Your Say plus a pop-up session has been held to collect feedback on how the reserve is used and could be used, which will ensure Learmonth Reserve continues to meet community needs – now and into the future. Your input will help shape the plan for this important local space.

• Patterson Lakes Tidal Waterways and Quiet Lakes. It is important for Patterson Lakes residents to read the joint Melbourne Water and City of Kingston review which can be found at letstalk.melbournewater. com.au/pattersonlakes/beachmaintenance to be aware of the potential financial impacts.

• I have had another Community meeting with both the Carrum (State) and Dunkley (Federal) MPs which has the single focus on transparency and outcomes for the community. These meetings have been a positive step and a great way for anyone to ask about issues in Carrum, Patterson Lakes & Bonbeach.

Your voices shaping Kingston

Thank you for engaging in more than 75 community consultations last year.

Your feedback on everything from parks and beaches to arts and open spaces is directly shaping key policies and master plans.

This year they will come to life as construction begins on roads, playgrounds, sporting facilities and shopping strips.

You say, we do

More than 800 of you gave feedback on our Community Local Law leading to deletion of a proposal to restrict new gates accessing public parks and the foreshore, removal of the existing restriction on foreshore access points and adjusted new rules on storing boats, trailers and caravans on public roads.

Strong support for our Street and Park Tree Strategy led to community input in tree selection and clearer information for older residents.

Kingston Women of the Year!

Join us as we reveal Kingston Women of the Year!

We’ll announce our award recipients and mark International Women’s Day at a free ceremony from 9.30am, Thursday 5 March.

Snowdon Reserve will have improved dog access, new seating, native planting and retained open turf as requested by our community. Namatjira Park Outdoor Gym’s inclusive design with adjustable cardio and strength equipment and improved layout is a result of your input.

There are many ways to help create a safer, more inclusive and more liveable Kingston. What method works best for you?. Tell us at:

yourkingstonyoursay.com. au/community-convos

The inspiring morning is an opportunity to:

• connect with others while enjoying light refreshments

• celebrate our award winners

• hear from engaging keynote speaker Shelley Ware, TV presenter and MC

• enjoy dance performances by Mzuri Dance ArtisTree.

To book and find out more visit: kingston.vic.gov.au/ women-of-the-year

A season of discovery at Kingston Libraries

Kingston Libraries continue to be vibrant community hubs, offering something for everyone this season – whether you’re looking to learn a new skill, connect with others or simply enjoy a great read.

February is Library Lovers’ Month, a perfect time to celebrate the many ways our libraries enrich daily life.

Visitors are invited to drop in, share what they love about their local library on community boards and take part in a range of fun, family-friendly activities that highlight the joy of reading, learning and belonging.

This season also features a strong line-up of talks, workshops and cultural events.

YOUR COUNCILLORS

Cr Tony Athanasopoulos

0400 396 723 I tony.a@kingston.vic.gov.au

I’m pleased to share that the Namatjira Park Master Plan has now been finalised, marking an exciting step forward for this much-loved community space in Clayton South. Namatjira Park plays an important role in bringing people together, whether it’s for sport, play, exercise, nature or quiet enjoyment, and this plan sets a clear vision for how the park will grow and improve into the future.

Importantly, the final plan reflects strong community input. Through consultation, residents told us what mattered most: safer and better-lit paths, improved accessibility,

Acclaimed Australian author Toni Jordan will visit Kingston to discuss her latest novel Tenderfoot, sharing insights into her writing journey and the art of storytelling.

For those keen to try something hands-on, workshops in 3D printing and sustainable loom weaving offer opportunities to explore creativity and emerging technologies in welcoming, supportive spaces.

Kingston Libraries will also celebrate cultural connection with events marking the Chinese New Year – Year of the Horse –including bilingual storytimes,

traditional Chinese calligraphy drop-ins and a special performance by the Melbourne Zhiyin Choir.

Beyond events, libraries continue to offer far more than books. Borrow a Citizen Science Kit, discover digital resources such as eBooks, audiobooks and streaming services, or explore the ever-popular Library of Things.

Whether you’re attending an event, learning a new skill or settling in with a favourite book, Kingston Libraries are here to inspire, connect and support our community. We look forward to welcoming you.

more trees and landscaping, quality recreation spaces, and facilities that balance active sport with passive, natural areas.

As a result, the plan includes enhancements such as upgraded play and skate facilities, improved lighting and wayfinding, expanded tree planting, outdoor table tennis, and improved parking and access — all while protecting the park’s environmental values. Thank you to everyone who took the time to share feedback, attend pop-ups or make submissions. Your voices have helped shape a plan that is practical, buildable and genuinely community focused.

Looking after places like Namatjira Park also means caring for our environment more broadly.

That’s why I encourage everyone to get involved in Clean Up Australia Day on 1 March. It’s a simple but powerful way to make Kingston cleaner, greener and more welcoming.

Whether you join a local clean-up or organise one with friends, family or neighbours, every small effort makes a big difference. Together, we can enjoy our parks and take pride in looking after them.

AUTUMN 2026 What’s On

PRESERVING YOUR FAMILY HISTORY

Whether its documents or jewellery, correct storage and handling helps your family history survive into the future.

TUESDAY 17 FEBRUARY 2pm–3pm Cheltenham Library library.kingston.vic.gov.au/ preserving-your-familyhistory

MORNING MELODIES2026 SEASON

Morning Melodies brings a rich program for 2026 filled with song and dance.

TUESDAY 24 FEBRUARY 10.30am

TUESDAY 26 MAY 10.30am Kingston City Hall kingstonarts.com.au/ morning-melodies

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

FOR ARTISTSMARKET THE HEART

An engaging and practical session designed for artists looking to learn how to better market themselves and their work.

SATURDAY 21 FEBRUARY 2pm–6pm Kingston City Hall kingstonarts.com.au/ market-the-heart

JAZZEOKE

Enjoy a night of great music, great singers and a great atmosphere.

WEDNESDAY 11 MARCH 7.30pm

WEDNESDAY 8 APRIL 7.30pm

WEDNESDAY 13 MAY 7.30pm

Kingston City Hall kingstonarts.com.au/jazzeoke

CLIMATEWATCH WORKSHOP

Enjoy a hands-on discovery session exploring the plants, birds, and insects that thrive around Chelsea Library - while contributing to Australia’s citizen science project, ClimateWatch.

SATURDAY 21 FEBRUARY 11am–12pm Chelsea Library library.kingston.vic.gov.au/ climatewatch-workshop

LIVE AT CITY HALL: SUNDAY SOUNDS

Kingston Arts and PBS presents Live at City Hall: Sunday Sounds, a series of free performances by Melbourne’s best indie bands and DJs.

SUNDAY 22 FEBRUARY 2pm–4.30pm

Kingston City Hall kingstonarts.com.au/ sunday-sounds

giveaway

Council is committed to increasing tree cover and vegetation in the City of Kingston.

Each Autumn, we offer a free indigenous plant giveaway, allowing residents to collect up to five free tube stock native plants per household.

SATURDAY 2 MAY 9am–12pm

The Grange Reserve, Clayton South

FRIDAY 8 MAY

TUESDAY 12 MAY 9am–12pm Carrum Indigenous Nursery, Patterson Lakes

SATURDAY 16 MAY 9am–12pm

Kingston Heath Reserve, Cheltenham

kingston.vic.gov.au/ free-plants

Check out our NEW Arts website: kingstonarts.com.au

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