Welcome to our April/May Posi ve Ageing Newsle er!
This edi on is filled with hot ps, new places to discover, and plenty of local events to keep you inspired. With South Side Fes val
Frankston ligh ng up our neighbourhood, we’re shining a special spotlight on our wonderful crea ve community a vibrant mix of ar sts, makers, storytellers and performers who make our area such a rich and lively place to live.
We hope you enjoy diving into all the crea vity, connec on and community spirit this season has to offer.
Don’t forget to check out the Positive Ageing Together Webpage at www.frankston.vic.gov.au. Discover the latest newsletter, upcoming events, community news and helpful information.
Frankston City Council acknowledges and pays respect to the Bunurong people of the Kulin Nation, the Traditional Custodians of these lands and waters.
If you have any ideas you would like to submit or have events and activities you would like to promote, please contact
by
Image credit Steve Brown Sea Soak 2025
Hot Tips for Seniors
Home Fire Safety
Every year in Victoria, around 3,000 preventable house fires occur. Below are simple steps to make your home safer.
Kitchen Safety -The kitchen is the most common place for a house fire to start. Many kitchen fires occur when cooking is le una ended. What you can do:
· Stay in the kitchen while cooking.
· Keep the cooking area clean and free of grease.
· Keep flammable items well away from heat sources.
Bedrooms and Lounge Areas
Common causes: faulty or misused electrical items, overloaded power boards or damaged extension leads, hea ng placed too close to bedding or furniture. What you can do:
· Replace damaged cords or appliances.
· Keep heaters clear of blankets, clothes, and furniture.
· Never leave electrical items running overnight unless they are designed to do so safely.
Top Home Fire Safety Tips
· Have a licensed gas fi er check your gas heater regularly.
· Inspect chimneys, flues, and fireboxes for cracks or damage.
· Check electric blankets for worn wires or kinks.
· Look for frayed or damaged electrical cords around the home.
· Clean your dryer’s lint filter before every use.
Become an Engage Frankston member
Council regularly engages with our community on a range of projects and we want to hear from you!
As an Engage Frankston member you’ll be first to get alerts about upcoming engagement opportuni es.
Signing up also means you’ll never miss the chance to provide feedback on or influence the future of projects and decisions that interest you.
Sign up using the QR code or via engage.frankston.vic.gov.au.
Hot Tips for Seniors
Hop Aboard Council’s Social Ou ngs Program—Explore, Dine & Discover!
Council's Social Ou ngs Program is here to help eligible Frankston residents explore, socialise and enjoy the best our region has to offer. With affordable bus trips ranging from $3-$6, ge ng there is easy.
(Please note: Any costs at the des na on, such as lunch or entry fees, are at your own expense)
· Visits to local a rac ons
· Scenic drives
· Delicious lunches at cafés and restaurants
· Our popular Coffee Club and Walking Groups
There is a 6-monthly brochure featuring upcoming ou ngs—you simply choose the trips that interest you. Council’s program offers a warm, welcoming environment perfect for socialising and building friendships. For more informa on, please call our Intake Team on 9784 1933 to discuss eligibility.
Have Your Say on Exercise and Cultural Background
Monash University Physiotherapy is studying how cultural background influences exercise choices in older adults.
Residents aged 65 + are invited to complete an online survey about physical ac vity, including the mind body exercise known as Baduanjin (no prior experience needed). Take part here: h ps://bit.ly/MonashBaduanjin
For a paper copy of the survey, please contact Mr Xianhui Liao: Xianhui.Liao@monash.edu
Home Medicines Review
Under the Home Medicines Review, a pharmacist visits pa ent’s homes to help them understand all the medicines they take, and make recommenda ons to help health prac oners and pa ents develop medicine management plans. It helps to increase quality use of medicines and decrease adverse events. Pa ents are eligible to par cipate if they meet the following requirements;
· They hold a current Medicare card or Department of Veteran's Affairs Card
· Live in a community se ng
· At risk of, or experiencing, medica on misadventure
· The referring Medical Prac oner confirms that there is an iden fiable clinical need for a HMR Service Speak to your GP to see if you qualify
Good for the Hood
Frankston City Council has joined the Good for the Hood @ Home Program, an online resource that supports residents by offering events and informa on about simple sustainable behaviours and ac ons that anyone can do. Sign up for this free council funded program to access online resources and come along to upcoming events. www.goodforthehood.com.au/frankston
Spotlight—Our Crea ve Community
Whether you want to wander galleries, par cipate in crea ve workshops, or connect through performance and community events, Frankston’s local art scene offers plenty of op ons that are welcoming, accessible and easy on the wallet.
South Side Fes val
There’s no be er way to experience everything Frankston has to offer than by kicking things off at the South Side Fes val which runs 8-17 May.
10 days of arts, culture and heritage experiences across various Frankston loca ons. The city wide fes val features visual art, installa ons, music performances, talks and workshops. Many events are free or low cost designed for all ages.
You can find the South Side Fes val Program at www.southsidefes val.com.au or available from Frankston Art Centre and libraries.
Frankston Art Centre and Cube 37
A local hub for visual and performing arts with galleries, exhibi ons and workshops. They regularly host community art shows and events that are open to all ages and o en have free or low cost entry or ac vi es tailored to older adults
Cube 37 is part of the Art Centre, this is a gallery space showcasing local ar sts work and o en hos ng free to low cost exhibi ons.
You can check their calendar for upcoming crea ve events at www.artcentre.frankston.vic.gov.au or call 9784 1060
Peninsula Arts Society
159 Overport Road Frankston South
This local ar sts society hosts open studios, exhibi ons, demonstra ons, and workshops in a friendly, welcoming se ng in Frankston South. Free entry to exhibi ons offer a great opportunity to see a variety of artwork and chat with ar sts.
More details at www.peninsulaartssociety.org.au or call the office 9775 2640
McClelland Sculpture Park and Gallery
Open Wednesday to Sunday.
390 McClelland Drive Frankston
Free entry for Frankston City Council Postcodes during the week and $5 per adult on weekends. Just a short drive from central Frankston, McClelland is one of Australia's premier outdoor sculpture parks. The landscaped grounds make it a joy to stroll and enjoy the art and nature together. More informa on www.mcclelland.org.au or call 9789 1671
Spotlight—Our Crea ve Community
Murals of Frankston
Frankston's vibrant street art and mural culture is available all year a free outdoor gallery you can explore any me. I highly recommend doing a guided tour as you really get the story behind the artwork and the ar st. Book into a guided tour or download the Street Art Map at www.imaginefrankston.com.au calling 1300 322 842
Frankston Coastal Arts Discovery Trail
Take a self-guided walk or bike ride and check out contemporary art and architectural pieces inspired by Frankston’s coastal heritage. You’ll find them sca ered along the beau ful foreshore from Olivers Hill all the way to Seaford. The Coastal Arts Discovery Trail is designed to capture the stories, images and ideas that celebrate local culture from the me of the first Tradi onal Owners right through to today. Frankston was originally home to the Bunurong people, whose land covered the whole Mornington Peninsula. Evidence of their deep and enduring connec on to Country can s ll be seen across the region. From the early days of European se lement, ar sts were drawn to Frankston’s beau ful scenery. This trail brochure shares their stories and artworks and can be used as a self-guided tour. You can download the Coastal trail here www.imaginefrankston.com.au/coastal-arts-discovery-trail
Photo 1 The Round House Steve Brown 2018
Photo 2 Crab sculpture Steve Brown 2023
Volunteer Opportuni es
VOLUNTEERS WANTED Join Community Support Frankston
Make a Real Difference in our Community
We’re currently seeking dedicated volunteers for the following roles:
· Community Worker (Interviewer)
· Food Program Worker
· Recep on
· Administra on / Data Entry Support
By commi ng just one weekday shi (9:00am–12:30pm or 12:30pm–4:00pm) for a minimum of 12 months, you’ll help provide vital support to people in need and gain so much in return.
Why Volunteer With Us?
· Make a meaningful difference in your community
· Meet like-minded people and build las ng connec ons
· Develop communica on and workplace skills
· Gain valuable experience for your CV
· Enjoy personal and professional growth in a suppor ve environment
We welcome mature adults with strong listening skills, reliability, and a genuine concern for others. Previous experience is helpful but life experience counts too!
APPLY NOW by comple ng an applica on form via our website h ps://www.frankston.net/volunteering
Peninsula Transport Assist
Helping Our Community, One
Drive At A Time
Volunteer drivers with Peninsula Transport Assist (PTA) have supported transport-disadvantaged residents across the Mornington Peninsula and City of Frankston for over a decade. Although PTA has around 60 ac ve drivers, more volunteers are needed.
Most drivers are re rees or people on Jobseeker who enjoy the flexible, choose-yourown-hours nature of the role. Using their own cars, they take clients to medical appointments, but also shopping, exercise classes and social ac vi es. Some clients require only local trips while others need longer distance travel. Drivers can choose the types of trips they’re comfortable with, and PTA provide reimbursement to help cover fuel costs. Volunteer drivers have said “At the end of a drive both the client and I go home with a smile”, “I feel like I’m really helping someone”. PTA clients have commented “It’s a wonderful service – I tell everyone about it”, “I don’t know what I would do without PTA”.
If you’d like to help, phone the PTA office for a chat on (03) 9708-8241 or email Tim on info@peninsulatransportassist.org Or you can get in touch via the PTA website: www.peninsulatransportassist.org
Seniors News
Maintaining Independence at Home Program—Na onal Centre for Healthy Ageing
A fun and prac cal life skills program led by a trained occupa onal therapy student and their supervising occupa onal therapist to understand your strengths, challenges and goals. You will a end regular sessions covering topics such as
· task modifica on
· home setup for safety and independence
· evidence based strategies to maintain health and well being in adulthood
· strategies to enhance health related quality of life
· ac vity pacing.
Where: Healthy Futures Hub, 2/151 East Road Seaford
Cost: Free
Dura on: 90 minutes
Contact: alliedhealthclinics@monash.edu or call 9904 4415
Physical Ac vity & Mobility Clinic
This clinic offers several programs related to physical ac vity and mobility. Each program commences and concludes with some brief published measures of physical ac vity and mobility.
Balance and Mobility Group A 9 week group circuit training program of physical ac vi es suitable for adults of all ages
Func onal Fitness Tes ng A one-on-one assessment of six simple, validated physical tests that help measure everyday func onal abili es, followed by personalised recommenda ons to support health, ac vity levels and independence
Floor Rise Program Focuses on teaching safe, step by step strategies to maintain or improve the ability to get up and down off the floor ( or ground).
Be Your Best Program runs for 6 months and is delivered via telehealth (phone or video call).
Par cipants choose from 4 health focused, self passed modules to work on during the program; Be er Bones, Be er Joints, Be er Life , or Be er Balance.
Pulmonary Maintenance Small group exercise sessions once per week. Focus on general fitness, muscle strength, daily physical ac vi es and educa on.
Where: Healthy Futures Hub, 2/151 East Road Seaford
Contact: alliedhealthclinics@monash.edu or call 9904 4415
See you there
Vision
Australia
Ac vi es include
Low
vision
Recrea on Group for Seniors Frankston
· Low intensity, chair based gentle exercise
· Gardening, card games, music bingo
· Cra and cooking
· Memory games, crossword, trivia and quizzes
· Social ou ngs and more!
When: Every Tuesday (excluding public holidays)
Time: 10am—2pm
Where: Ebdale Community Hub, 20 Ebdale Street Frankston
Contact: Vision Australia 03 8791 0200 or 1300 847 456
Walking Football 4 Health Victoria Belvedere Community Centre
A walking football program for all ages.
This is a low impact, modified version of football where players are required to walk instead of run. The game maintains the essence of football while reducing injury risks, making it ideal for individuals over 50, those recovering from injuries, or anyone looking for a gentle yet engaging way to stay ac ve.
When: Wednesday a ernoons 1pm -2pm
Where: Healthy Futures Hub – 151 East Road, Seaford
Join us for a special two part program for seniors.
Gain the skills to travel confidently on public transport. Train safety, boarding ps, myki card ps, naviga ng sta ons and travel confidence.
Part 1 Theory Session Tuesday 21 April. 2pm-3pm
Karingal Place, 103 Ashleigh Ave Frankston
Part 2 Prac cal Session Tuesday 28 April 10am 2pm
Frankston Train Sta on cket box. We will be taking the train to city.
Free to a end . Limited to 12 people
Bookings essen al email posi veageing@frankston.vic.gov.au or call Kelleigh 0482 691 444 or book via www.eventbrite.com.au
Ageing Well Community Expo – You're Invited!
Looking to discover new services, programs, or social groups in your community?
Come along to the Ageing Well Community Expo a welcoming, not for profit event designed especially for older residents in the Frankston LGA.
This Expo is a wonderful opportunity to connect directly with local not for profit organisa ons offering free or low cost services, ac vi es, and supports.
Event Details
· Tuesday 25 August 2026
· 10am – 12pm
· Frankston Arts Centre 27–37 Davey St, Frankston
· Free to a end
For more informa on, please contact posi veageing@frankston.vic.gov.au or call 0482 691 444
Interested in exhibi ng?
Visit www.engage.frankston.vic.gov.au
And search Ageing Well Community Expo and complete an Expression of Interest
Na onal Road Safety Week 17-24 May 2026
Na onal Road Safety Week is an annual ini a ve which highlights the impact of road trauma and ways to reduce it. As part of Council’s Community Road Safety Programs, we will be hos ng 2 presenta ons for older drivers developed by VicRoads. Presenta ons are co-funded by the Department of Transport and Planning Safe Driver
Join us for an engaging presenta on on how older drivers can keep safe and mobile. Learn about keeping safe as we age, poten al impacts of medical condi ons or medica ons and a refresh on road rules, including rules that may have changed recently. Frankston session
Bookings: h ps://www.frankston.vic.gov.au/Things-To-Do/Whats-On/Safe-Driver-Frankston Carrum Downs Session
When: 11am – 12pm Wednesday 20 May
Where: Lyrebird Community Centre, 203 Lyrebird Drive, Carrum Downs 3201
Cost: FREE bookings required
Bookings: h ps://www.frankston.vic.gov.au/Things-To-Do/Whats-On/Safe-Driver-Carrum-Downs
For more informa on, please contact Andrew.Peterson@Frankston.vic.gov.au or call 9784 1046 See you there
Frankston Library
Puzzle Hour – Keep Your Brain Fit!
Looking for a fun way to stay sharp and social?
Join us for Puzzle Hour, a weekly program designed to keep your mind acve and engaged. Enjoy a variety of puzzles including crosswords, sudoku, word games, and more all in a friendly, relaxed se ng.
Whether you are a seasoned puzzler or just curious to give it a try, Puzzle Hour is a great way to challenge your brain, boost memory, and connect with others.
When: Every Thursday 10.30am—11.30am
Where: Carrum Downs Library, 203 Lyrebird Dr Carrum Downs
FrankTALK with Mary-Lou Stephens
We will be welcoming the ever-popular Mary-Lou Stephens, author of The Jam Maker and The Chocolate Factory, to Frankston library to chat about her newest novel, The Hobart Hotel, a sweeping dual meline historical novel filled with glamour, intrigue and high stakes. From the gli ering 1939 opening of the Wrest Point Riviera to the dazzling launch of the Wrest Point Hotel Casino in 1973, Stephens weaves the stories of Sabine Winters and Jenny Davies - two women whose lives are shaped by secrets, danger, and the unexpected consequences of their bold choices.
When: Friday 24 April 1.00pm—2.00pm
Where: Frankston Library 60 Playne St Frankston
FrankTALK with Victoria Purman
Join us as we welcome back bestselling Australian author of The Radio Hour, A Woman's Work and The Nurses War, Victoria Purman as she introduces her new novel The Marriage Trap, a powerful and compelling story set in 1960s Adelaide. Exploring the arrival of the contracep ve pill, shi ing social expecta ons, and the fight for women's freedom, Purman shines a light on the lives of ordinary women naviga ng extraordinary change.
When: Friday 15 May 1.00pm-2.00pm
Where: Frankston Library 60 Playne St Frankston
Frankston Art Centre
Silver Screen Soundtracks and Serenades
Celebrate the unforge able music of the silver screen in a spectacular Day me Music concert starring pianist William Schmidt, soprano
Alison Jones and host Christopher McKenna. Enjoy unforge able themes and songs from legendary composers including Burt Bacharach, Elton John, John Williams, Henry Mancini and more.
When: 30 April 10.30am and 1.30pm
Tickets: $24 $27
Book online at thefac.com.au or call 9784 1060
Gallery Talk Auto Photo : A life in portraits
Discover the remarkable hidden story of Alan Adler, brought to life through thousands of in mate self-portraits in Auto Photo: A Life in Portraits, a compelling exhibi on presented by the Centre for Contemporary Photography. For over 50 years, Adler maintained a suite of photobooths across Melbourne, most notably, the site near Flinders Street Sta on. Join us for a free Gallery Talk event with Curator Catlin Langford with Christopher Sutherland and Jessie Norman (Metro Auto Photo).
When: Saturday 2 May
Tickets : Free bookings essen al Book online at thefac.com.au or call 9784 1060
The Australian Barbara Streisand Show
Join us in our Func on Centre to experience the magic of Barbra Streisand’s legendary career with Rachael Grace, as she brings to life the meless hits that have defined genera ons. Enjoy a chef-prepared 2-course dinner as you take a musical journey through Streisand’s iconic songs, from emo onal ballads to disco classics.
When: Saturday 23 May, 6pm (Dinner) 7.30pm (Show)
Tickets: $52 - $62 (including 2-course dinner)
Book online at thefac.com.au or call 9784 1060
Important Contact Numbers
Friendline
FriendLine is for anyone who needs to reconnect or just wants a chat. All conversations with FriendLine are anonymous and friendly volunteers are ready for a yarn and to share a story or two.
Contact: 1800 424 287 or visit https://friendline.org.au/
When: Support line is open 10am - 8pm everyday
Online chat is open 6pm - 8pm Monday – Friday
Lifeline
Lifeline is Australia's largest crisis support service, there to ensure you'll never face your darkest moment alone. The service is confidential and you'll be connected to a trained Lifeline Crisis Supporter who will be there to listen, without judgment. If you or someone you know is going through a hard time and needs someone to talk to, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14
Financial counselling
Times are tough, if you are experiencing financial hardship, speak to a financial counsellor today
Good Shepherd: 1300 765 595
Better Place Australia: 1800 639 523
Older Persons Advocacy Network
If you need support accessing aged care services, require advice or would like to speak to someone about your rights, Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN) is there to help and offers free, independent and confidential support Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN): 1800 700 600
Seniors Rights
Everyone deserves to be treated with respect and dignity. For confidential support and advice regarding elder abuse please contact:
The Orange Door: 1800 319 353 Seniors Rights Victoria: 1300 368 821
Domestic and Family Assistance
If you or someone you know is experiencing family violence you can get support via the following support services: The Orange Door (Frankston) 1800 319 353 Men’s Referral Service 1300 766 491 Djirra 1800 105 303
Frankston City Council Positive Ageing Team
Mail – Frankston City Council, Positive Ageing, 30 Davey Street, Frankston 3199
Email – PositiveAgeing@Frankston.vic.gov.au or call 0438 902 205
