Welcome to the final edition of Connect Local News

As we say goodbye to Connect Local, this final edition celebrates the people, partnerships and community organisations that made the program so special. We’re proud to share our final impact figures and the story of Bina and DK, whose experiences show the difference meaningful community connections can make.

In this edition, you’ll find:

• Connect Local’s final impact figures

• Bina and DK’s story of connection

• Reflections from the Connect Local team

• Farewell messages from community members and organisations

• What’s going on in the community – with plenty of activities to get involved in

We are incredibly grateful to everyone who has been part of Connect Local. Thank you to the participants who trusted us with their stories, the community organisations that welcomed us, and the many people who helped create a more connected Glen Eira.

Wishing you all good health and happiness 😊

Warm regards,
The Connect Local Team
Rajna, Kerry, Ann, Lynn, Liz and Sarah

How did you find out about Connect Local?

Bina and DK first heard about Connect Local through a brochure, and two years later, a dietitian from Alfred Health also suggested the program. Their eldest daughter contacted Connect Local after they had both experienced significant health challenges.

At the time, DK was feeling socially isolated and less motivated to take part in social activities. Bina, a former kindergarten teacher in India, was keen to find meaningful volunteer opportunities, particularly with children. Their daughter hoped Connect Local could help them rebuild confidence, strengthen social connections and become more involved in their community.

What has your experience been like with Connect Local?

Bina:
“Connect Local was incredibly helpful. Lynn, my Community Connector, was friendly, patient and knowledgeable. Without her support, I would not have found the volunteering opportunities that have become such an important part of my life.”

Lynn accompanied Bina to Murrumbeena Playgroup, where she continues to volunteer, and introduced her to The Meeting Place, where she joined the Friday Drop-In sessions.

DK:
“My experience with Connect Local has been excellent. Lynn took the time to understand my interests and helped me find the right places and activities to become involved in.”

DK joined U3A, enrolling in Russian language and Ancient Wisdom classes and becoming involved as a volunteer in the office and web maintenance team.

“The U3A model is fantastic,” DK says. “It gives people valuable opportunities to learn, connect and contribute.”

How has your life changed since you contacted Connect Local?

Bina:
Before Connect Local, Bina felt she was spending most of her time at home, watching TV and feeling that she was not contributing to the community.

“I am much busier now and have something meaningful to do every day,” Bina says. Alongside Murrumbeena Playgroup and The Meeting Place, she has also begun volunteering at the Community Pantry at St Peter’s Anglican Church.

Through these activities, Bina has met new people, built meaningful connections and gained a strong sense of purpose. She says she feels she is making a positive contribution and, most importantly, feels much more connected to her community.

DK:
Before joining Connect Local, DK was attending the Leila Road social group but still had plenty of spare time. Connect Local introduced him to new opportunities where he could keep learning and give back to the community.

For DK, the one-on-one support made all the difference. Lynn listened to his challenges and interests, accompanied him to activities, and helped him choose options that suited him.

Have you noticed any changes to your wellbeing?

Bina:
“I am much happier now and feel motivated to leave the house each day,” Bina says. “Volunteering and community activities have given me a greater sense of purpose and fulfilment, and I feel much more physically active.”

DK:
DK has also noticed a substantial improvement in his health and wellbeing. He feels more positive, active, connected and less lonely, with regular activities to look forward to three or four days each week.

“These opportunities have greatly improved my quality of life and overall wellbeing,” he says.

Their daughter:

“If not for Connect Local, DK and Bina (my parents) would have missed out on community activities happening in their very neighbourhood. The awareness and information given by Connect Local was invaluable and much appreciated. A big thank you and very sad to see you wind up because this program could have helped many more in need of the social connections.”

Connect Local has been one of the best programs I’ve ever worked on, and I feel incredibly lucky to have been part of it. A huge thank you to my amazing colleagues, and all the extraordinary people and community organisations I’ve met along the way. My work at here has also inspired my next chapter, Capacity Studio, my own Health and Wellness Coaching business and my part-time role at the City of Port Phillip. Much love and see you around the neighbourhood!
Ann

Connect Local has been one of the most rewarding programs I’ve been a part of. It was so satisfying to see it come to life and then witness its impact. Glen Eira has so many wonderful people and organisations. A big shout out to the Community Houses who welcomed us wholeheartedly and to everyone who was part of Connect Local.

Kerry

I’ve loved hearing the stories of the people we’ve met through Connect Local. Thank you to everyone who shared their experiences with us. Your stories have helped us understand the difference connection can make and will help us support others to feel more connected in the future.

Liz

I joined Connect Local as a Community Connector, believing I would be helping seniors discover new connections, places, and activities. What I didn't anticipate was how much Connect Local would connect me to my own community through the people I've met and the places I've visited alongside our participants in the program. Thanks, Connect Local!

Lynn

It has been a privilege to be part of Connect Local and to see what can happen when we start by asking people “What matters to you?” Thank you to everyone who helped create Connect Local with us. While the program is finishing, the relationships, learning and commitment to building more connected communities will continue.
Rajna

I've loved my time at Connect Local - getting to know our amazing participants and Friends of Connect Local has been the highlight for me! I've learned so much about the power of social connection!

Sarah

Connect Local was just an amazing job. What resonates for me about Connect Local was not only the giving, thoughtful colleagues, wonderful participants and their stories but also personally the importance of social connection for everyone in society. We need people, it makes our experiences and lives so much richer. Thank you to everyone I worked alongside and supported. You're all very missed. 
Taryn

A few snapshots from our farewell celebrations

We have received some lovely messages from the community – here’s a snippet!

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

Receive one-on-one assistance with My Aged Care through a 30-minute support session.

Lynn will provide support to:

• Support for understanding 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

Whether you're just beginning your aged care journey or navigating ongoing support, this one-on-one support will help you move forward with greater confidence.

Lynn is available on Thursday’s and works across three Community Houses in
Glen Eira until December 10, 2026:

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

Please book in for all activities, call 9570 3468 or email admin@moongala.org.au or visit www.moongala.org.au

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

Join us for a festive and flavourful experience that’ll make your Christmas extra special!

Tuesday 17 November, 2pm – 4.30pm

$20

Get into the festive spirit and learn the art of crafting the perfect Christmas pudding and Christmas cake in our upcoming cooking class! Discover time-honoured techniques, tips for flavour enhancement, and the joy of creating a pudding that's steeped in tradition. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned cook, this hands-on session will have you stirring, steaming, and perfecting a delicious festive treat to impress your family and friends and take home two delicious Christmas treats (pudding and cake)!

Booking link

Wednesday 2 December, 11.30 - 1pm

$15 (2 course)

 It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas! Let's wrap up the year with a little festive fun and join us for our extra-special Christmas Community Lunch!

Our wonderful team of volunteers and clever cooks are pulling out all the stops to bring you a traditional Christmas feast, complete with all the festive trimmings. Expect delicious food, good company, a little entertainment and perhaps a few surprises along the way!

So dust off your Christmas cheer, bring your appetite and come celebrate the end of another wonderful year with us. Bookings are essential, and payment must be made at the time of booking to secure your spot. All welcome! 

Booking link

Saturday 28 November

Election Day is fast approaching! CSCH will once again be a voting station, and we’ll be hosting our usual Election Day Market! 

Pop in for a BBQ, browse our plants, and pick up some other art and craft goodies while you’re here.  A coffee cart will be in operation with home made cookies!  Make sure to mark the date in your diary. Come along to cast your vote, enjoy the good vibe and market.

GEALC 169A McKinnon Road, McKinnon. Tel 9578 8996

Chatty Café

 Every Thursday during school terms, 11:15 am–12:15 pm

Part of the national Chatty Café Scheme, Chatty Café offers a welcoming space for people to connect over coffee and conversation, helping reduce social isolation and build community connections.

Community Meal Program

3rd Thursday of each month during school terms, 5pm–7pm
Come for the food, stay for the friendships! A monthly dinner bringing residents together to enjoy a nutritious meal in a safe, welcoming and inclusive environment.

Upcoming dates:
Thursday 19 November
Thursday 17 December – Christmas Dinner

WELLvember – Free Health and Wellbeing Activities

Celebrate GEALC’s annual WELLvember this November with free health and wellbeing workshops! Explore creative arts, breathing techniques, Qigong, healthy eating, jewellery making, EFT tapping, drumming and more. Relax, recharge and reconnect with your wellbeing. Spaces are limited, so book today!

Mahjong Club

Every Thursday during school terms, 1pm–3pm

Learn Mahjong in a relaxed, social environment while building strategy, memory and concentration skills. A great way to meet new people, have fun and try something new.
 

1:1 Digital Sessions

FREE one-on-one support with computers, smartphones, iPads, the internet and everyday online tasks, tailored to individual needs.

Holiday Special Karaoke Chatty Café

Celebrate the festive season with our special Karaoke Chatty Café! Sing your favourite song, join in with others or simply enjoy the music and atmosphere. Everyone is welcome, regardless of singing experience!
 

will be available in the first week of December.

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

567 Glen Huntly Rd, Elsternwick. Tel 0494 305 999

Chatty Café  
Wednesdays 10am to 12pm

Promotes social inclusion and engagement.  
The urn is always ready. 
The conversation is friendly and engaging. 

Craft, Games and Chat 
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. 

Every Wednesday afternoon from 4:00pm to 5:00pm under the Peace Tree at the front of Elsternwick-Caulfield South Uniting Church, 567 Glen Huntly Road. 
The church will be open for quiet reflection and lighting candles.   

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. 

A Christmas event for toddlers and their families.

This Christmas event is designed for toddlers and their families – older children are also welcome.  Join in Christmas crafts – help your child make angels and stars, decorate Christmas biscuits. 
The event will finish with a sausage sizzle and ice-creams before you head home in time to put your little ones to bed. This is also an opportunity to see the Elsternwick Toddlers Playgroup facilities and what the group offers to young families in the Glen Eira community.

When: Friday 4th December, 4 – 5:30pm

Where: Elsternwick Caulfield South Uniting Church (St John’s), 567 Glen Huntly Road

Music and interactive story
BYO picnic rug or chair

Sunday 20th December 7:00pm

With support from Ambulance Victoria, we are hosting a free, in-person 1.5-hour "Safety During Extreme Heat" information session on 17 November at Murrumbeena Community Hub.

Event details and registration:
https://www.gleneira.vic.gov.au/our-city/whats-on/extreme-heat

Cuppa and Connect is a series of talks where experts share information and practical advice on healthy ageing and support for carers of all ages. Sessions are held at venues across Glen Eira and online.

Upcoming sessions include:

Celebrate the festive season with an afternoon of music, entertainment and holiday cheer at Carols in the Park!

Bentleigh Hodgson Reserve, Higgins Road, Bentleigh

Gather your favourite people, pack your picnic rug and get ready for a magical night at Carols in the Park.

Enjoy classic Christmas songs and performances by a brilliant lineup of local favourites and if you’ve been extra good this year, you might see a special someone in red — Santa!

Bursting with festive cheer, there will be scrumptious food trucks, roving entertainment, and fun for kids of all ages. Join us for a truly jolly night out!

The Healthy Ageing Team at Glen Eira Council produce a regular newsletter with information on local services, programs and events.

If you haven’t already signed up, we encourage you to do so to stay up to date on what’s happening locally.