Welcome to our December Connect Local News

Summer is here, and with it comes plenty of exciting events and opportunities to stay connected!

In this edition:

• Catch up with the Connect Local team as we share highlights and updates from our recent activities.

• We feature Margaret, one of our inspirational Connect Local community members and a Friend of Connect Local.

• Meet Libby, a Care Coordinator at Eastbound Medical Clinic dedicated to improving social connection for community members.

• We discuss the work Connect Local is doing at the library.

• Learn more about local groups and services, including the new Caulfield Probus Club, the Traveller’s Aid Service, and Community Club at C Care—each offering unique ways to get involved and stay connected.

• And finally, discover what’s happening around the community including some special festive activities

To keep up with the latest news events in Glen Eira, please be sure to follow and like us on Facebook.

Wishing you a safe and happy festive season and looking forward to seeing you around Glen Eira!

Warm regards,

The Connect Local Team

Rajna, Kerry, Ann, Lynn, Liz, and Sarah

Curious about the numbers behind our work? Here’s a quick snapshot of Connect Local’s reach and impact.

Spotted us around Glen Eira? We’ve been busy! Here’s a peek at some of the adventures and activities we’ve been part of.

Glen Eira Healthy Ageing Expo (31^st October)

We were thrilled to be invited to the Glen Eira Healthy Ageing Expo. The Council did a fantastic job organising this event—it was a great initiative and a brilliant way to wrap up Seniors Month! We had a wonderful time meeting residents from all around Glen Eira, as well as catching up with other service providers.

We really hope the Expo becomes a regular fixture in October!

We’re delighted to introduce Margaret and share the inspiring story of her journey back to social connection.

Margaret’s Journey Back to Connection

When Margaret moved in with her mother to care for her during illness, life changed dramatically. Once a social butterfly with a wide circle of friends, Margaret suddenly found herself isolated. After years of caring, she longed for connection.

That all changed one day in March 2025. While shopping at her local Woolworths, Margaret noticed a poster for the St John’s Chatty Café and Connect Local Neighbour Day event. It was close to home, and she decided to go along. At the event, she met new people, won a raffle, and signed up for Connect Local. From that moment, she never looked back.

“Walking into St John’s Elsternwick that day changed my life,” Margaret says. “It has put me back in circulation and I’m feeling much brighter and sociable. It has changed my life.”

What started as a casual visit to the St John’s Chatty Café has become a weekly highlight. “I thought I’d go occasionally, but now I want to go every week. I’ve enjoyed meeting interesting and lovely people.”

Margaret is now a member of Friends of Connect Local, sharing her story about how much Connect Local and St John’s Chatty Café has made such a positive difference to her life. We are lucky to have Margaret as part of our Friends of Connect Local group. Her energy and enthusiasm have brought so much joy to the community, and her experience is a powerful reminder of how easily disconnection can sneak up on us and how community can truly transform lives

We’re excited to introduce Libby, Care Coordinator at Eastbound Medical Clinic. Honestly, we at Connect Local feel so lucky to have Libby in our corner - her expertise and holistic approach to wellbeing makes a huge difference. Libby is passionate about connecting patients to the right support—including to Connect Local!

Can you tell us a bit about your role as a Care Coordinator at Eastbound Medical Clinic?

My role as a Chronic Disease Care Coordinator allows me to support patients with long-term or complex health conditions, providing clinical care and behaviour change coaching, coordinating their care across our practice, allied health, specialists, hospitals and community services. My purpose is to improve continuity of care, support patient self-management, reduce risk of deterioration or hospital admission, and ensure that the patient’s care is organised, proactive and person centred.

What do you enjoy most about working in this space? 

I enjoy delivering patient-centred, strengths-based care—educating, listening, empowering self-management, and supporting health goals. With my background as a registered nurse, health coach, and nutritionist, I use my skills in chronic disease management and behaviour change to help patients. I’m grateful to work alongside a committed team led by Justine Birchall, with Gabrielle McCann and Mia Mulvogue supporting our clinic’s workflow.

How important is social connection to health and wellbeing?

Social connection is a strong predictor of health and wellbeing across the lifespan. Its impact is biologically, psychologically, and socially profound—and the evidence behind this is exceptionally strong, including from the Harvard Study of Adult Development, the longest-running study on human wellbeing in history which started in 1938 and is still ongoing today. This study found that people who were most socially connected—in friendships, community, and intimate relationships—lived longer and had significantly lower rates of chronic illness. Importantly, the study found that people who improved their relationships mid-life or later still gained major health benefits!

Have you seen patients improve their wellbeing through social connection?

100%.   Part of my role is linking patients up to the local services that will support their health and wellbeing.  Sometimes social connections is the number one outcome we are trying to achieve and sometimes it is a consequence but no matter which service, group, class or volunteering opportunity captures a patient's attention the next time they attend the clinic after attending a group regularly their mood is usually improved and they are more engaged (unless perhaps if they have had a health set back in the interim). 

What would you say to other health professionals thinking about referring to Connect Local?

Sometimes what our patients need most isn’t more medical appointments—it’s people. Connect Local gives them that and is a great adjunct to our clinical care. It helps reduce loneliness—which we know is a major risk factor for both mental and physical deterioration—and it supports patients to stay motivated with their health behaviours. Patients who attend often show improvements in mood, confidence, and self-management. Referring is an easy way to enhance the care we’re already providing.

We've met at The Meeting Place in Murrumbeena to explore ways to strengthen neighbourhood connections, recognising the benefits for physical, mental, and community health.

Friends of Connect Local played a key role in our Neighbourhood Day events as well as at the Connect Local library pop-ups.

Thanks to all Friends of Connect Local members—volunteers and organisations—who have helped spread the word about the importance of social connection in Glen Eira. Special thanks to Bendigo Bank Murrumbeena and everyone we've worked with this year.

The Library drop-ins have been fantastic for meeting residents and sharing information about Connect Local. We've had the chance to chat with people from all walks of life, answer questions, and connect them with local supports.

We're excited to announce that, starting next year, we’ll also be holding drop-ins at Caulfield Library.

It’s a great opportunity to stop by, ask questions, and learn more about how Connect Local can support you or your organisation.

No bookings required — just pop by and chat!

Upcoming dates:

Visit https://library.gleneira.vic.gov.au/whats-on/connect-and-create/connect-local-drop-ins for the full list of dates.

Now that summer is here and the days are at their longest, it’s the perfect opportunity to get out and discover what’s happening in our local neighbourhoods. Although things might be a bit quieter at our wonderful community houses over the holiday period, there are still plenty of great events to enjoy!

Probus clubs are great way to meet new people, stay active, and explore new experiences.

Caulfield Probus meetings are held on the first Wednesday of each month, meeting at 10am for a 10.30am start at the Glasshouse Caulfield, located at 31 Station Street, Caulfield East.

There’s a free carpark directly opposite the front entrance, and many group members stay on at The Glasshouse to enjoy a hot meal after the meeting. It has a $20 senior's menu.

It’s a fantastic way to meet new people, stay active, and explore new experiences in a welcoming environment.

New members are warmly invited to join.

Interested? Contact Judith, Secretary, on 0419 317 056

If you're travelling during the holidays, it's helpful to know about this free service!

Friendly staff and volunteers can meet you, help with bags, and guide you to your next train or tram—making travel less stressful and more comfortable.

This free service is available for those with limited mobility or anyone feeling unsure about travelling alone, ensuring a safe, comfortable, and stress-free transit experience.

Provided free:

• Buggy transfer

• Manual wheelchair access

• Personal guidance services for people with vision impairments

24 hours notice is preferred to ensure they can meet you at your train, bus or taxi.

Bookings on 1300 700 339

Volunteer companions can meet you at a public transport hub in Melbourne or Seymour and accompany you to and from:

• appointments

• social activities

• events/attractions

They offer wheelchair assistance as well as companion assistance to people who walk unassisted or with the help of a walking frame.

This service is available Monday to Friday, 8:30am – 6:30pm
Weekend or out-of-hours bookings can be arranged but will depend on volunteer availability.

72 hours notice is preferred.

Bookings on 1300 700 339

Many already know C Care as a lifeline for those needing a nourishing meal, but fewer know that C Care also has a social program for seniors - the “Community Club”. As part of the Australian Government’s Aged Care Volunteer Visitor Scheme, the program pairs older individuals with friendly, caring volunteers for regular visits and meaningful connection.

To register for Community Club to receive visits, or as a volunteer, contact:
03 9636 3321 or Email: community@ccare.org.au

Website: ccare.org.au/community-club

Godfrey Street Community House, 9 Godfrey Street, Bentleigh. Tel 9557 9037

Guest Teacher: Chris Thiel

Create a fresh Christmas Wreath for home using foliage and decorations.

• All tools and materials are provided

• Perfect for beginners – no experience needed

• Small group, relaxed & supportive environment

 Cost: $60 Bookings essential

Book online or call 9557 9037 for more information.

Cost: $3

Join us for a cuppa and social conversation about dying and death in an open, respectful and confidential space. Our objective is to increase awareness of death with a view to helping people make the most of their lives.

This is a discussion group not a grief support or counselling session.

This event is run by a volunteer.

Call 9557 9037 for more information, drop ins welcome.

Caulfield South Community House. 450-452 Kooyong Road, Caufield South. Tel 9596 8643

Be quick to snap up the remaining spots to CSCH's wonderful Festive Community Lunch - only a few seats remaining!

11.30am to 1pm

Book here or call 9596 8643

Join in the festivities for the end of the year and join our extra special Community Lunch. Delivered by a team of volunteers, our clever cooks bring their own specialities and focus on nutrition, wholesome meals, cultural diversity and most important of all - fun & friendship. Come and join this social group and enjoy a two-course lunch with all the festive trimmings.

Term 1 Program 2026 is out!

Try your first class for FREE! Bookings open Tuesday 27 January 2026

Please call, email or jump on our website for more information: admin@csch.org.au, 9596 8643, www.csch.org.au          

Fridays 1pm to 3pm

Starting in February 2026
$4 per session

Join us for a relaxed Friday afternoon of classic games, friendly competition, and great company.

Enjoy Scrabble, chess, cards and more in a welcoming space where seniors can socialise, keep the mind active, and share a few laughs.

We’ll also be serving afternoon tea with cakes or biscuits, tea and coffee, so pull up a chair, settle in, and make Fridays your favourite time of the week.

GEALC 169A McKinnon Road, McKinnon. Tel 9578 8996

The Meeting Place, 117 Murrumbeena Road, Murrumbeena. Tel 9568 8177

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567 Glen Huntly Rd, Elsternwick. Tel 9596 2620

Chatty Cafe at St John’s will continue to run every Wednesday from 10am to 12pm right throughout December and January.

Plus, Craft, Games, and Chat Group will also be meeting as usual on Mondays from 1pm to 3pm.

4:00 -5:30pm Friday 5^th December

Craft activities, stories, sausage sizzle

2:30-4:00pm

Sunday 14^th December

Music & afternoon tea

7:30pm

Sunday 21^st December

9:30am

Christmas Day

164 Neerim Road, Glen Huntly

Last year, St Anthony’s Parish prepared around 500 Christmas meals for residents in Glen Eira, bringing cheer to our community. They are inviting volunteers to lend a hand to make their traditional Christmas Day dinner a truly memorable event for everyone.

• Sunday prior (21/12/2025): Help with setting up the hall.

• Christmas Day (25/12/2025): Assist with serving meals, packing takeaway dinners, and delivering meals to those nearby.

• Clean-up (27/12/2025): Clean up and pack away, making sure the hall is ready for the new year.

If you can spare a few hours and want to spread joy this festive season, please call 9401 6336 or email stanthony.christmasdinner@gmail.com to register your interest. Every helping hand is appreciated!

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Got a tech query?

Need help setting up an email account? Got a question about the settings on your phone?

Head down to Carnegie Library and Community Centre and spend up to 15 minutes with a technology trainer.

No bookings required but wait times may apply. 
Registration required upon arrival.
 

When: Monday 15 December
Time: 10.30am–12.30pm
Where: Carnegie Library and Community Centre, 7 Shepparson Avenue, Carnegie

Call: 9524 3700
Email: libraryevents@gleneira.vic.gov.au

 A special Christmas eve tradition

Jólabókaflóð (Yule Book Flood) is a much-loved Icelandic tradition where books are exchanged on Christmas Eve, followed by a cosy night of reading with hot chocolate in hand.  

Glen Eira Libraries is once again bringing the tradition to life! Drop in to pick up a free second-hand book to keep, chat with our friendly team, and enjoy a complimentary barista-made hot chocolate or coffee. 

Suitable for all ages. No bookings required — just turn up! 

When: Wednesday, 24 December 2025
When: 10am–1pm
Where: All Glen Eira Library Branches

Call: 9524 3700
Email: libraryevents@gleneira.vic.gov.au

Get ready to feel the festive spirit at Carols in the Park! This free annual event is packed with holiday fun for the whole family.  

When: Saturday 13 December
Time:4pm–8pm  
Where: Bentleigh Hodgson Reserve, Higgins Road, Bentleigh. View map

Enjoy cheerful Christmas tunes from a fantastic lineup of local and much-loved performers, while the kids get creative with Christmas crafts, have their faces painted, and maybe even spot a special visitor in a red suit — Santa himself!  

The event is filled with roving entertainment and plenty of fun for kids of all ages. Grab a bite from the delicious food trucks or bring your own picnic and soak up a magical night of music, laughter and holiday cheer.  

Recommended for all ages.  
Free to attend.  
Bookings not required.  

Corner Glen Eira and Hawthorn Roads, Caulfield. Tel. 9524 3333

This December and January, Glen Eira City Council Gallery will host a vibrant program of creative workshops,
performances and activities for all ages.
 

A gentle and restorative exercise therapy incorporating a variety of low impact movements with stillness and some meditation.

The purpose of the practice is to release tension - physical, mental and emotional.  

Thursday 11 December
1.30pm - 2.15pm   
Glen Eira City Council Gallery   
Free!

Bookings required  

Saturday 13 December

Time: 1.30pm—4pm
Tickets: $7 per person.

All materials supplied.
Ages: Suitable for adults aged 18 and up.

Take a moment for yourself and create a Collage Mandala while reflecting on what you need today to feel more balanced and grounded. You will make a unique and very personal Mandala that tells the story only you can tell. 

Bookings required  
 

Sunday 14 December

Time: 10am—12pm
Tickets: $7 per person.

All materials supplied. 
Ages: Suitable for adults aged 18 and up.

Join Taungurung and Dja Dja Wurrung artist, Cassie Leatham Fisher-Patterson, for a native ink printing workshop and sharing of her knowledge of native plants. Participants will learn how to print on eco-friendly paper with native plants and create their own artworks. 

Bookings required
 

Did you know that in Australia we use more than 150,000km of wrapping paper over the festive season—enough to wrap the Earth nearly four times.  

Friday 19 December, 10am-5pm 
Saturday 20 December, 1pm-5pm 
Sunday 21 December, 1pm-5pm 

Drop in and create your own unique wraps using sustainable materials. A fun, hands-on activity for all ages. Planet friendly gift wrapping has never been more fun!  

Free. No bookings required. Activity will run until supplies run out. Maximum of three gifts per person. Wait times may apply.  

Sunday 14 December

Time: 2pm and 3pm (2 x 45-minute performances)
Tickets: Free. No bookings required. 
Ages: Suitable for all ages.

Celebrate the festive season with a Very Bonnie Christmas, starring the remarkable Bonnie Thorn and her hot jazz trio of Dan Witton (bass), Jeremy Hopkins (drums) and John Thorn (piano).  

All your holiday favourites with some surprises and a whole lotta fun. The perfect swinging seasonal soundtrack. 

These popular 30-minute 1-on-1 support sessions will continue into 2026 at Moongala and Godfrey Street.

When: Thursdays during February (alternating at Moongala and Godfrey Street)

If you know of any hidden gems in Glen Eira we would love to add them to the Community Directory so others can enjoy them too. Please let us know or ask the group to list themselves on the Community Directory.