Welcome to our May Connect Local News

It’s hard to believe how quickly the year is flying by, and there are still so many wonderful ways to stay connected, involved and supported in our local community.

In this edition:

• We share an important update about Connect Local

• Meet Emmeline, our new marketing student intern

• Meet Jill, one of our special Friends of Connect Local and her work on the Fence Project at The Meeting Place

• Meet Michelle, Healthy Ageing Liaison Officer at Glen Eira City Council, who is Caring for Carers in Glen Eira

• Read about our recent Neighbour Day activities

• Discover what’s happening around the community and hear from Kaye about the Connect Local Library drop‑ins.

There are so many community groups, events and services offering opportunities to connect, get involved and feel part of the local community.

Warm regards, 

The Connect Local Team 

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

We want to share an important update with you about Connect Local.  

As you know, Connect Local is a community‑based program made possible through philanthropic funding. Over the past four and a half years, it has grown through strong community partnerships and shared commitment to social connection. The program is now entering its final phase and will conclude on 31 October 2026. From 1 June 2026, new referrals will close so we can continue supporting people already involved.  

Connect Local was built on the belief that social connection is essential to wellbeing. It has since grown into a collaborative, place‑based program supporting a more connected Glen Eira community. 

Connect Local has supported residents of Glen Eira and surrounds to build confidence, find belonging, and re‑engage with their community. The impact of this work has been felt not just by individuals, but across the network of organisations and groups working together locally. We are very proud of what has been achieved. 

None of this would have been possible without the collaboration, commitment and shared vision of the many organisations, community partners and volunteers who have worked alongside us. Thank you for your role in shaping and supporting Connect Local.  

An evaluation of Connect Local is currently underway. This work will help capture the learnings and impact of the program to help inform future approaches to social connection.  

While Connect Local is coming to an end, the need for social connection does not. We remain hopeful that the groundwork laid through this program will continue to inform and inspire how services in Glen Eira support older residents into the future. There is a bright future for programs like this, and we are committed to continuing to advocate for place‑based, community‑led approaches to connection and wellbeing. 

Here are our latest stats, showing how Connect Local continues to support connection across Glen Eira.

Tell us a bit about yourself! 

I am a final year Marketing Student at Monash University. I took some time during my degree to travel, which, gave me a broader perspective and shaped my outlook. I’m keen to apply my skills I’ve learned at University in a real-world setting and gain practical experience within an organisation. 

What made you want to work on Connect Local? 

I wasn’t aware of Connect Local before starting, but I’ve quickly come to appreciate the genuine purpose behind this organisation. Having a 92 year-old Albanian grandma living in Australia, this has made me more aware of how important social connection is for older people. It’s meaningful to be part of something that supports community! 

What are you working on during your time at Connect Local? 

During my time at Connect Local, I’ve been supporting the team with a range of marketing tasks across social media, the website and newsletter. I’ve been creating Facebook graphics, contributing to the newsletter content, and assisting with the website banner updates. 

I’ve really enjoyed my experience at Connect Local so far, and everyone has contributed to creating a warm and welcoming environment!

How did you find out about Connect Local? 

I attended a Bolton Clarke presentation on ageing well and improving mental health. The work they were engaged in sounded amazing. I felt I should volunteer and give something back to the local community who had supported me after the death of my husband. So, the representative of Bolton Clarke, took my name and forwarded it to Connect Local. We arranged for a meeting at my place, which is when I met Ann for the second time (as we’d met a Primary school collecting children).

What has your experience with Connect Local been like? 

During our meeting, Ann was made aware of my needs and interest in the arts (due to prior career). She was able to provide me with awareness and choices on how I could become involved in the local art/ people. Ann provided opportunities linked to my interests, there was never pressure to attend, it was all my choice as to which or what I did. I have met quite a number of people with different experiences and ages, activities including artist gatherings, Xmas party, distant relative link, morning chatty coffee, communal art work etc . Quite diverse experiences. 
 

How has your life changed since you contacted Connect Local?  

Possibly the biggest change that Connect Local made to my life was when I was invited to be part of a communal art project. At first it was exciting but also daunting as I hadn’t actively engaged to producing artwork for 30-40 years. I had built a barrier up regarding creating actual artwork which was due to all my other life demands, including being a carer for my husband. But when faced with a board, paint and visual problem - I lost myself in the collaboration activity. It brought so much joy and stimulation to me, whilst achieving an external communication goal.  

Have you noticed any changes to your well-being in that time?  

I have been inspired to return to my artwork, but also am feeling more confident and complete in my daily life.  I am informally utilising my communication skills to support others at a weekly community coffee session, which also brings me joy. So I’m most grateful for the experiences Connect Local and Ann in particular provided me with.  

An update from Ann…

The Community Garden at The Meeting Place in Murrumbeena has been running for over 15 years. It is a beautiful place of bounty and colour – and that’s the people as well as the plants! Renee and Kirsten are Community Garden members and also key volunteers.  

They received a grant so that they could decorate the long fence that runs along the driveway from the busy Murrumbeena Rd to the carpark and garden. Their idea was to ask all the community groups that run out of The Meeting Place to design and paint a picture to advertise their group to put up on the fence.  

My call out was responded to by Jill and Loraine, and we all met at the garden shed to start designing the Connect Local poster. Thankfully Jill’s artistic skills emerged, and, with the help of the Connect Local logo, a design was created in no time.  

It was so fun painting and chatting along with people from the other groups and seeing the wonderful creative minds behind the project.  

A big thanks to Renee, Kristen and Nell Potter from The Meeting Place. What a wonderful place to spend time! 

We are very pleased to introduce you to Michelle, Healthy Ageing Liaison Officer at Glen Eira Council. We asked Michelle a few questions about her role, and her top tips for carers in Glen Eira. 

What led you to your role in Healthy Ageing at Council?  

My lived experience as a Carer of family members with Huntington’s Disease prompted me to work in this space and it is my absolute passion. Prior to 2020, I worked in media! 

What does your role involve day-to-day?  

My role involves connecting carers with local services, supporting and promoting existing services and creating programs/resources for Glen Eira carers. 

What’s one thing you wish more people knew about carers in our community?  

There are so many things I would love people to know about carers but above all, the fact that they deserve the same opportunities for social connection and respite as any other person. 

If someone is new to caring, where should they start, who can they call first?  

As a starting point, I always recommend registering with Carer Gateway to begin establishing supports and contacting Services Australia regarding carer entitlements. 

What kinds of support do carers typically find most helpful?  

Peer support groups – the best advice always comes from other carers due to their shared lived experience. 

How can a carer benefit from connecting with other carers?  

The carer role can vary widely however the common thread we most often see is the need for social connection. 

Are there any upcoming carer events, training, or activities you’d like carers to know about? 

Council is preparing to pilot a face-to-face carer connector role at our local Glen Eira neighbourhood houses and community centres where carers will be able to speak with me directly about carer supports and local services. Further details to come! The best way to stay updated on the events and opportunities for carers locally is via our Glen Eira Carer Community newsletter Carers Community e-news | Glen Eira City Council 

If you could give carers one message, what would it be?  

We understand that not all carers may identify as a carer. If you are someone who provides unpaid care and support to a family member, partner, or friend who needs assistance with daily living due to disability, mental illness, chronic health issues, or frailty you may be eligible for carer supports. If this is you, please reach out to council on carersupport@gleneira.vic.gov.au or ph. 03 9524 3333  so that we can help you on your carer journey. 

In March, the Connect Local team had fun hosting five Neighbour Day events across Glen Eira, held in partnership with local Community Houses and Chatty Cafés.  It was wonderful to see a great response at each event. 

A special thank you to the Community Houses/ Chatty Cafes for inviting us back this year and for their continued support.  

Neighbour Day activities were held at: 

• St John’s Uniting Church Elsternwick 

• Glen Eira Adult Learning Centre  

• Caulfield South Community House 

• Godfrey Street Community House 

• Moongala Women’s Community House 

Each event had a great buzz - lots of conversation, laughs, and plenty of excitement as names were drawn for the lucky door prizes. 

Thank you to Glen Eira City Council for the community grant to deliver these events, and to the Councillors and Healthy Ageing Team who joined us on the day. We also really appreciate the support of our amazing Friends of Connect Local, who helped with set‑up, promotion and organising lucky door prizes. 

Special mentions to Elaine, Rhonda, Caryn, Tania, Margaret A, Margaret Mc, Jill, Judy, John and Ken. 

A big thank you to the local businesses and community groups who donated prizes: Silver Salties (Sandringham Life Saving Club), Woolworths Metro Caulfield South, Woolworths Bentleigh, Coles Bentleigh, Taking Shape Bentleigh and Mr Burch in McKinnon. 

Neighbour Day continues to be a simple and enjoyable way to bring people together and support local connection, something Community Houses, Chatty Cafés and Connect Local do every day. 

Here’s a snapshot of what’s happening around the community.  

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.

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

An update from Kaye … 

I have enjoyed the Wednesday Pop Ups. It is a nice social occasion for me. We have interesting conversations with people of all ages, even though we are meant to be helping the older section of the community 

I am an old person being 81. During these Wednesday sessions, I have found there are plenty like me. We all need the social contact and quite often a helping hand as well. It is through Connect Local that I started to explore my options at various community houses in Glen Eira. I now take several classes at Caulfield South Community House. Volunteering on the Wednesdays at Carnegie Library has made me more aware of my neighbourhood. 

Kaye Greaney  

Feeling overwhelmed and confused by the aged care system? You’re not alone. Receive one on one assistance with My Aged Care through a 30-minute support session.

When: Thursdays during school term 

• 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. 
   

• 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. 

May 28        – Moongala Women’s Community House
June 4         – Godfrey Street Community House
June 11        – Caulfield South Community House
June 25       – Moongala Women’s Community House
July 16         – Caulfield South Community House
July 23         – Godfrey Street Community House
July 30         – Moongala Women’s Community House

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

These sessions are possible thanks to funding from Community Bank Murrumbeena.

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

Moongala, Moorleigh Community Village, 92 Bignell Rd, Bentleigh East. 9570 3468

Monday ‘Bake & Bond’ Program  $2

‘The Morning Tea’ and ‘The Global Kitchen’ are two groups running alternatively each week, to share skills and learn a variety of cuisines.  Enjoy over a cuppa and help us fill our freezer!

Tuesday Crochet & Knitting Group & Wednesday Crochet 10am – 12 noon $35 term or $5 casual attendance

Tuesday’s session is led by our volunteer Vicki who is keen to teach crochet and knitting to beginners and we also offer an opportunity for those more experienced to work on their own projects in a friendly setting!  Wednesday’s session is self-led and a creative bunch who are keen to share their skills with others.  All welcome

Tuesday Chatty Café Connect 10.30am – 12 noon  $3

A fun morning making friends & connections.  Enjoy a cuppa, barista coffee, morning tea and playing games – card and board games – beginners welcome, we will teach you!  Five Crowns, Quiddler,  Rummikub, Sequence, Scrabble, Trivia morning etc!  Lots of fun and these sessions are open to men and women to attend.  Kindly supported each week by Adrian and Lee, our volunteer baristas.

Stretch, Strength & Balance and Chair Yoga Exercise Classes

Wednesdays 1.15-2.15pm and 2.30-3.30pm our weekly exercise classes with instructor Ange are very popular.  $10 payable by the term.  Call to see what class you would be best suited to attend.

Social Sewing  Thursdays – 1-3pm  4 – 25 June   $27.50 or $8 casually, sewing machines supplied

Work on your own projects in a friendly group with the guidance of Rose our skilled seamstress and other group participants. Limited places available

My Aged Care Support

Moongala together with Godfrey Street Community House Inc and Caulfield South Community House each offer monthly appointments for 30 minutes to members of the community who need assistance in navigating the My Aged Care system.  Call Moongala 9570 3468 or Godfrey Street Community House 9557 9037 or Caulfield South Community House on 9596 8643

Bookings essential, call 9570 3468 or admin@moongala.org.au or visit www.moongala.org.au

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

These sessions are designed to support people to build confidence and develop essential digital skills in a friendly, small-group setting – think iPhone, laptops, scams and more.

Contact our Admin team to secure you spot: 9596 8643 or admin@csch.org.au

$15

Cherie will guide you through this painting experience. Landscapes, portraits, and more with acrylics. You’ll be immersed in a wonderful atmosphere of music, laughter, knowledge and kindness.

Contact our Admin team to secure you spot: 9596 8643 or admin@csch.org.au 

$5/ $10/ $15 depending on garment  

Georgia helps breathe new life into your well-loved items. Georgia will mend them while you watch and learn or simply drop your item off and collect when they are ready.

Contact our Admin team to secure you spot: 9596 8643 or admin@csch.org.au 

$15 

Paint with watercolours with Jessi. A talented artist who can show you a trick or two. Jessi will guide you through step by step on how to paint flowers, landscapes, animals and various paintings of interest with a kind and caring approach in a relaxed and joyful atmosphere. Contact our Admin team to secure you spot: 9596 8643 or admin@csch.org.au

GEALC 169A McKinnon Road, McKinnon. Tel 9578 8996

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

This year our Community Meal is on the last Saturday of the month.

Community Lunches – Welcome Table 
Cost: $10 per lunch 
Day: Wednesday each fortnight 
Time: 12.00pm 
 
Enjoy a home cooked meal and dessert offered fortnightly during term dates. Greta company, great food and all welcome! Tea & coffee available 

More info: Welcome Table – Phoenix Park Neighbourhood House

567 Glen Huntly Rd, Elsternwick. Tel 9596 2620

Wednesdays
10am to 12pm. 

Wednesdays 10am to 12pm Promotes social inclusion and engagement.  The urn is always ready.  The conversation is friendly and engaging. 

Mondays 1pm to 3pm. 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. 

Free afternoon tea. 

Does your community group need a place to meet? Conveniently located at tram stop 48 on Glen Huntly Road, Elsternwick-Caulfield South Uniting Church has spaces available. Photos are available on our website: https://elsternwick.unitingchurch.org.au/facility-hire/  or phone 0494 305 999 to arrange a site visit. 

Sunday 21st June at 2pm at 567 Glen Huntly Road, Elsternwick.  

Members and students from Melbourne Community Cellists and Get Noted Music Enterprises will play a range of well-loved and other classical pieces.  Join us for an afternoon of stringed music followed by afternoon tea.  Entry by donation, with all proceeds going to the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (Australia). 

Gain practical knowledge about type 2 diabetes and how small lifestyle changes can make a big difference. 

Here’s a note from Arjun Bhugra, founder of Social Threads, a new initiative for people of all ages that creates opportunities for social connection. 

Big news... Social Threads is linking up with @besocial.adl who are visiting Melbourne, and we’re putting together something a bit special. 

Let’s be honest - most social events can feel a bit awkward. Standing around, checking your phone, wondering who to talk to. So we’re doing the opposite. 

We’ve booked a private space and put together a relaxed Sunday afternoon filled with fun connection games and activities designed to help conversations happen naturally - without forcing anything. 

No weird vibes. Just good people, laughs, and an easy way to meet others. 

A few things to expect: 

• Fun connection games  

• Meet both Melbourne and Adelaide legends  

• Expand your circle across two cities  

• A few nibbles 

• Potential new friendships (or at the very least, a wholesome Sunday afternoon)  

Come solo or bring a friend! 

Details: 
📅 Sunday, June 7 
🕑 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM AEST 
📍 Boyd Community Hub (207 City Road), Southbank  
💰 $5 pp (covers venue + Meetup platform costs + snacks) – can pay cash on the day or call Arjun to arrange payment 

We’ve booked a private space, so spots are limited. 

If you have any questions or can’t find the group on the day, feel free to call Arjun: 0448 474 277

The new walk-in, bulk-billed service is helping local patients access urgent care sooner and avoid unnecessary emergency department visits 

When to visit a Medicare Urgent Care Clinic  

Visit a Medicare Urgent Care Clinic if:  

• Your regular GP is unavailable and your condition cannot wait  

• You need urgent care for a non-life-threatening illness or injury  

• You would otherwise consider attending an emergency department  

In an emergency, always call Triple Zero (000).  

Carnegie Medicare Urgent Care Clinic now open - Located at Level 2, 2 Koornang Road, Carnegie, within Carnegie Central Medical Clinic, the service operates 14 hours a day, seven days a week, providing walk-in care for urgent but non-life-threatening conditions.  

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.