Connect Local News
Welcome to our February Connect Local News
As the year gets underway, there are lots of ways to stay connected in our local community.
In this edition:
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Check out the new Chatty Cafes in Glen Eira!
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Meet Elaine, a local resident whose journey with Connect Local led to the creation of the new Chatty Café at Godfrey Street Community House
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We honour the life and legacy of Joy, a much‑loved member of the Connect Local community whose voice and generosity helped shape the program from its early days.
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Learn about the ongoing work Connect Local is doing at local libraries, including regular drop‑ins at Carnegie, Caulfield and Elsternwick libraries.
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Discover what’s happening around the community, including all the Neighbour Day events at local Chatty Cafés.
There are so many community groups, events and services offering opportunities to connect and get involved.
To keep up with the latest news events in Glen Eira, please be sure to follow and like us on Facebook.
Warm regards,
The Connect Local Team
Rajna, Kerry, Ann, Lynn, Liz, and Sarah
Connect Local at a Glance
Here are our latest stats, showing how Connect Local continues to support connection across Glen Eira.
Welcome to the New Chatty Café at Godfrey Street
A new weekly Chatty Café is bringing conversation, warmth and connection to Godfrey Street Community House – an initiative that has grown from the collaboration between Connect Local, the Community House team, and the courage of a local resident who was willing to put up her hand.
For Elaine, the journey began when she was introduced to Connect Local through Glen Eira City Council. Since then, she says her life has changed in meaningful ways.
“I feel more involved and feel I have more worth,” Elaine shares. “I’m getting out more and not so isolated. I just like being with people – it’s good for me mentally and socially.”
Through Connect Local, Elaine was paired with Lynn, her Community Connector, who supported her to build confidence, connections and a sense of belonging. Elaine describes the Connect Local team as “so caring, kind and inclusive – just like the team at Godfrey Street Community House.”
At the inaugural Chatty Café at Godfrey Street Community House: volunteers Tania (left) and Elaine (right) share a moment with Allison (centre), Community House Manager.
Allison reflects on how the Chatty Café came to life.
“We’ve wanted a Chatty Café for a long time, but it didn’t happen until Lynn spoke with Elaine and she was brave enough to start it,” she says. “Now it’s become a space where people can drop in, chat and connect without any pressure.”
“Our goal is to have this beautiful space filled with conversation and laughter, and for people to leave with a real sense of belonging.”
Elaine hopes the café will grow into a place where friendships form and people feel at ease. “Something to look forward to,” she says, “and maybe other things will grow from it too – like outings. The café will be run by volunteers Elaine, Helen and Tania. Tania is also connected through Connect Local, while Helen is a long-time member of Godfrey Street.
Every Thursday during term time, 11am–1pm
Enjoy friendly conversation and delicious pastries kindly donated by Noisettes Bakery.
Remembering Joy
We honour the life and legacy of Joy Nuske, who sadly passed away in December 2025.
Joy was a much‑loved member of the Connect Local community and someone whose generosity of spirit helped shape the very heart of our program.
Many in our community will remember Joy from our February 2024 newsletter, where she was featured as one of two remarkable Glen Eira women whose lives had flourished through connection. Joy was a gifted pianist, a passionate advocate for social connection, and someone who understood through lived experience, the profound difference that being truly connected can make.
Joy was especially important to Connect Local because she was involved in the co‑design of the program from its early stages. She shared her insights openly and thoughtfully, helping ensure Connect Local was shaped by the voices and experiences of the very people it exists to support. Her contribution helped ground the program in empathy, dignity and genuine human connection.
Joy often spoke about what connection meant to her, once reflecting:
“Being involved with Connect Local and Social Health has made me think of the lyrics, ‘people who need people, are the luckiest people in the world.’”
Those words beautifully capture Joy’s outlook on life and her belief in the power of community. Despite the challenges she navigated, Joy approached life with warmth, humour and a deep appreciation for relationships. She gave generously her time, her wisdom and her spirit, and in doing so enriched the lives of many.
Joy’s legacy lives on through the values she helped embed into Connect Local, and through every conversation, friendship and moment of connection the program continues to foster. We are deeply thankful for Joy’s trust, her voice and her belief that connection can change lives.
Our thoughts are with Joy’s family, friends and all those who were fortunate enough to know her.
Friends of Connect Local
An update from Ann…
Ann, Margaret and Lynn at Carnegie Library
We shared such a lovely afternoon together late last year, celebrating all the good work of the Friends of Connect Local. The group has played an important role in helping people find local activities and connect with Connect Local. These dedicated volunteers have made a real difference – not only in the lives of others, but also in their own friendships and connections. Thanks to a grant from the Murrumbeena Bendigo Bank, the group was able to gather regularly throughout 2025. During this time, members learned more about the importance of staying socially connected, discovered what was happening locally, and worked together on the best ways to spread the word about Connect Local.
Even though the funding for the group has finished, the group decided they would keep meeting in 2026. Our first meeting was held on Monday 16th Feb, kindly hosted by Carnegie Library. At this meeting, we began planning our Neighbour Day activities. These events are being organised together with local Chatty Cafes run by Neighbourhood Houses and St John’s Uniting Church. The Neighbour Day events will be held in March and will be relaxed, welcoming and fun. There will be tasty food and plenty of prizes. We hope many people will come along and enjoy a friendly chat at a Chatty Cafe close to them.
A big thanks to our Friends of Connect Local who support our community in so many ways.
What’s Going on in the Community?
Here’s a snapshot of what’s happening around the community.
Make note of the upcoming Neighbour Day morning teas — there’s sure to be one near you.
Neighbour Day Activities
Neighbour Day is coming up, and once again Connect Local is proud to partner with our wonderful local Chatty Cafés to celebrate the power of connection, thanks to a community grant from Glen Eira Council.
Neighbour Day is a national initiative by Relationships Australia that promotes respectful relationships and community belonging. It’s been running for over 20 years, inspiring people across Australia to connect, include and support each other.
Throughout March, Connect Local will be co‑hosting five Neighbour Day morning teas with local Chatty Cafés. These relaxed, welcoming morning teas are a chance to meet new people, catch up with familiar faces, and be reminded that connection starts right where we live – in our neighbourhoods.
At each morning tea, we’ll be sharing information about Neighbour Day and simple ideas for staying connected, as well as giving away some lucky door prizes!
We’re thrilled to continue working alongside our local Chatty Cafés, who create safe, welcoming spaces for connection.
Three Simple Ways to Connect
1. Say Hello 👋
A smile goes a long way.
Smile, nod, or say hello to people when you pass them on the street.
2. Get to Know Your Neighbours 🏡
Take the first step.
Introduce yourself with a friendly hello or write a short card and pop it in their letterbox.
3. Get Involved in Your Community 🤝
Join in and feel connected.
Take part in local activities, groups, or events in your neighbourhood.
Details of the five Neighbour Day morning teas are listed below – we’d love you to come along, bring a friend, or invite a neighbour.
Free Navigating My Aged Care Sessions
One on one support
Receive one on one assistance with My Aged Care through a 30-minute support session. Sessions are available on Thursdays, fortnightly at Godfrey Street, monthly at Moongala, and Caulfield South Community House (from May).
When: Thursdays during school term
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Assistance with My Aged Care: Support understanding the My Aged Care system, making phone calls to My Aged Care and registering online.
- Exploring Commonwealth Home Support Program services: Guidance on finding services for independent living.
- Support At Home Program Provider Assistance: Help with understanding Support At home Program and assistance in selecting and connecting with a suitable provider.
Facilitator Lynn Cai
- Residential Care Services Support: Assistance in accessing services tailored to individual circumstances.
- Connecting to Other Community Services: Referrals to programs relevant to an individual's needs.
Bookings essential, contact:
9557 9037 to book at Godfrey Street Community House
9570 3468 to book at Moongala Women’s Community House
9596 8643 to book at Caulfield South Community House
This service is available thanks to support from Community Bank Murrumbeena.
Connect Local at the Libraries
The Connect Local library drop-ins have become a valued touchpoint for residents looking to learn more about what’s happening locally. They provide an informal, friendly opportunity to talk things through, explore options, and make connections.
We’re now holding regular drop-ins at Caulfield Library, alongside Carnegie and Elsternwick libraries.
Carnegie Library and Community Centre
Last Wednesday of every month, 10.30am—12pm
Caulfield Library
Last Wednesday of every month, 10.30am—12pm.
Elsternwick Library
Second Wednesday of every month, 10.30am—12pm
No bookings required — just pop by and chat!
Visit https://library.gleneira.vic.gov.au/whats-on/connect-and-create/connect-local-drop-ins for the full list of dates.
Godfrey Street Community House
Godfrey Street Community House, 9 Godfrey Street, Bentleigh. Tel 9557 9037
Thursdays 11am – 1pm (during school term)
Join like-minded locals for some fun and conversation.
This is a new group, and we hope to build it into a regular catch up for locals.
$3 per session, no Membership required for the first 2 months.
From April participants will need to become Members of the Community House ($25 per annum).
Call 9557 9037 or email coordinator@godfreystreet.org for more information.
Tuesdays 10am – 12pm (during school term)
Join our friendly Mahjong group to enjoy social games in a relaxed, welcoming environment.
Beginners are very welcome, teaching and guidance are provided.
Mahjong is a traditional Chinese tile game that combines strategy, skill, and a bit of luck, making it a fun way to challenge your mind and connect with others.
$3 per session, Annual Membership required $25
Call 9557 9037 or email coordinator@godfreystreet.org for more information.
Moongala Women’s Community House
Fridays 10am-12.30pm, 27 February to 27 March 2026
Kicking off this February, this free five‑week program is designed to support women 45+ years in strengthening their self‑awareness, clarifying personal values, and cultivating a more positive, compassionate mindset. Whether you're navigating change or simply looking to invest in your wellbeing, Thrive offers a warm, supportive space to grow alongside others in your community.
Tuesdays
10.30am—12 noon
$3 All sessions are open to both men and women to attend
Chatty Cafe Connect
24 Feb Morning Melodies-Singing for fun
3 Mar Bingo
10 Mar Games Morning & Cuppa
17 Mar Trivia - Fun for all
24 Mar Morning Melodies-Singing for fun
31 Mar Neighbour Day Chai, Chat & Cappuccino & Games
11.30am—1pm
Join us for ‘Table Conversations’ with Devonshire tea and cupcakes!
And a morning of connection, reflection and being together.
Kindly RSVP by calling 9570 3468.
10am -12noon
$27.50
Using donated materials you will be introduced to the art of quilting! Learn techniques, terminology and equipment used to create a patchwork square
Caulfield South Community House
Caulfield South Community House. 450-452 Kooyong Road, Caufield South. Tel 9596 8643
3.15pm – 4pm
$11 - $15 per class
This class consists of low impact exercises that focus on strengthening muscles while improving flexibility, stability, posture and strength mostly performed while seated in a chair! Staying seated means that even those who are frail, or not very flexible or sturdy on their feet can safely do the exercises and work towards increasing their strength and flexibility using bands and balls.
3rd Friday of the month
10am – 12pm
Free
The Community House is delivering a supportive and inclusive initiative designed to connect, support and care for those in our community who care for others.
Many people in caring roles don’t see themselves as “carers” — they are committed, loving and unwavering individuals providing support to a family member, friend or neighbour. We invite you to register your interest in connecting with our Caring for Carers group. This is a space to pause, connect with others who understand, and enjoy some well-deserved moments of uplift and care for yourself.
Fridays
9am to 10.30am
$200 per term
French classes at the Community House, perfect for those who love all things French. Learn about culture and places to see, while gaining practical skills like navigating menus, reading directions and signs. Classes also focus on real language learning, from the very basics through to more advanced skills. All class materials and study notes are provided.
3rd and 4th Wednesday of the Month
10am to 11am
$11 - $15 per class
Perfect for active people and anyone keen to learn or brush up on basic line dancing skills. Whether you're new to line dancing or a regular on the floor, this class offers a fun and social way to stay active. Enjoy moving to the music while giving both your body and mind a gentle workout.
3rd Monday of the month
12.30pm-2.30pm
$5/ $10/ $15 depending on garment
Rhiannon helps breathe new life into your well-loved items. Rhiannon will mend them while you watch and learn or simply drop your item off and collect at the end of the day. Please contact our Admin team for more details on how Pop-Up Shop works.
Contact Admin admin@csch.org.au or call 9596 8643.
Glen Eira Adult Learning Centre (GEALC)
The Meeting Place (Murrumbeena Uniting Church)
Get in quick for this one!
Phoenix Park Neighbourhood House
Join this fun and friendly class designed to help you build strength, improve posture, and stay flexible, all at your own pace. Using a chair for balance and support, you’ll enjoy a gentle workout that’s kind to your joints and leaves you feeling energized and refreshed. Suitable for all fitness levels, including those looking for a low-impact way to staying mobile and energised.
Book now online or call 9530 4397.
Thursday’s 1pm. $2 per session.
Join this new social group!
If you like putting things together and meeting new friends, this group is for you! In a friendly and fun environment, you can work on group jigsaw puzzles or learn how to play challenge games all while improving memory, visual acuity and dexterity.
Tea & Coffee available.
Wednesday (every fortnight) From Midday.
Cost $10
Enjoy a delicious home‑cooked meal in our upstairs Dining Gallery at an affordable price.
Led by a qualified nutritionist, our community lunches are a welcoming space to share wholesome food, connect with locals, and make new friends.
Bookings essential, secure your spot today! Book now online or call 9530 4397.
St John’s Elsternwick Caulfield South Uniting Church
567 Glen Huntly Rd, Elsternwick. Tel 9596 2620
Mondays 1-3pm.
Free afternoon tea.
You are warmly invited you to drop in for Craft, Games and Chat. Bring your own craft, learn from others. Play a game or two of Rummikub – no experience needed. Chat and meet new people.
Chatty Café
Wednesdays
10am to 12pm.
Drop in for a cuppa and a chat.
The urn is always ready.
The conversation is friendly and engaging.
Vigil for Peace
Wednesday 4-5pm.
Under the Peace Tree at the front of Elsternwick-Caulfield South Uniting Church, the church will be open for quiet reflection and lighting candles.
Gentle Chair-based Strength and Exercise Sessions.
For more information or to register, contact Cathryn on 0494 305 999.
Community Directory
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.
Connect Local is on facebook!
Connect Local has joined Facebook!
Find us: www.facebook.com/ConnectLocalAus
Follow us on Facebook to find out what the team is doing and what’s going on in your community!
Connect Local is a program by Connecting Communities to Care,
a collaboration with Bolton Clarke, Australian Disease Management Association and Alfred Health.
We acknowledge the generous support of The Ian Potter Foundation, the Ian Rollo Currie Estate managed by Perpetual, the Felton Bequest managed by Equity Trustees, and the Helen Macpherson Smith Trust for funding this initiative.