We know times are tough for some people in our community. We’ve teamed up with Laverton Integrated Services Centre (LCIS) to provide free and confidential support through our Community Connector and Support program.
The staff at LCIS have extensive experience in social work and counselling and are fully qualified to help you in times of need. The program is for individuals, couples and families, and focuses on providing practical financial support and improving overall health and wellbeing.
If you are experiencing financial hardship, please don’t hesitate to reach out and make an appointment, details are on page 3. Hobsons Bay is about community and being there for each other.
We’re also running Winter Home Energy Efficiency workshops at Altona Library to help you save on energy bills, details on page 12.
In November, we go to the polls for the state election. Earlier this year, we launched our advocacy plan and priorities which highlight projects and investments that we want and need in Hobsons Bay.
It's a crucial piece of work that will help us speak up for our community and call on state and federal governments to support the policies and projects which will benefit Hobsons Bay. You can read about what we’re asking the government for on pages 6 and 7.
Even though the weather is cooler, there is still lots of events happening in Hobsons Bay, check out the back page for details.
All Council meetings are held at the Hobsons Bay Civic Centre and livestreamed. If you would like to attend in person, please register online or at the door.
Monday 29 June | 7pm
Tuesday 28 July | 7pm
Tuesday 25 August | 7pm
Tuesday 22 September | 7pm
Tuesday 27 October | 7pm
Friday 13 November | 7pm (Election of Mayor and Deputy Mayor)
Tuesday 24 November | 7pm
Tuesday 15 December | 7pm
For more information, visit hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au/CouncilMeetings
We acknowledge the Bunurong People of the Kulin Nation as the Traditional Owners of the lands, rivers and coastal areas in Hobsons Bay. We recognise the First Peoples’ relationship to this land and offer our respect to their Elders past and present.
Cover: A brother and sister reading at Altona North Community Library
Deputy Mayor - Cr Lisa Bentley 9932 1044 (bh) 0418 796 486 lbentley@hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au
If you are experiencing hardship, free and confidential support is available through our Community Connector and Support program.
The program, run by Laverton Community Integrated Services (LCIS), is available to all Hobsons Bay residents.
LCIS community services program manager Emily Wright has witnessed firsthand how financial stress and wellbeing impacts residents in Hobsons Bay.
“We know the cost-of-living pressures are increasing the need for support more than ever, with many people using our service for the first time,” said Emily.
“ Our Community Connector program allows residents to access Laverton Community Integrated Services for short-term counselling alongside practical financial assistance, such as food hampers or food vouchers and referrals to other services.
“ We provide holistic, immediate relief for those facing financial strain to help people in Hobsons Bay shift from crisis to stability.”
Support is provided to individuals, couples and families.
The Community Connector and Support program, can assist with:
• food and material aid
• financial hardship including budgeting advice
• family and domestic violence
• mental health needs
• grief and loss
• housing issues
• parenting and carer responsibilities
• drug and alcohol issues
• gambling issues
For more information on Community Connector and other community support programs in Hobsons Bay,
CONTACT COMMUNITY CONNECTORS
The program is available five days a week, see below for sites and times:
scan here
Laverton Community Hub 95-105 Railway Avenue, Laverton (03) 8368 0170
Monday to Wednesday: 10am to 3.30pm Thursday and Friday: 9.30am to 2.30pm
Outlets Co-Op Neighbourhood House Newport 43 Mason Street, Newport (03) 9391 8504 Tuesdays: 10am to 1.30pm
Williamstown Community and Education Centre 14 Thompson Street, Williamstown (03) 9397 6168 Fridays: 10am to 1.30pm
for a better future SUSTAINABILITY INITIATIVES
LAST CHANCE FOR SOLAR SAVERS
If you haven’t used our free Solar Savers program yet, now is the time.
Available to all Hobsons Bay residents until 30 June 2026, Solar Savers takes the hassle out of installing solar and energy smart appliances by:
• recommending suitable products and connecting you with trusted installers
• helping you identify and claim eligible government rebates
• providing independent support throughout the process.
If you’re interested, sign up before the program ends on 30 June.
JOIN MILLIONS MAKING A DIFFERENCE
Plastic Free July is an opportunity to pause, rethink everyday habits, and take simple steps to reduce reliance on single -use plastic. Lasting change often starts small –from swapping a takeaway coffee cup, to choosing products with less packaging at the supermarket, or replacing cling wrap with reusable containers at home. Whether you’re just starting out or already well on your way to living with less plastic, there are plenty of ideas, events, resources, and tips to inspire action at home, school, work, and across the community.
Get involved, feel good, and join millions of people around the world taking action to reduce plastic waste.
Our community grants program supports community groups, clubs and organisations to deliver projects, initiatives and events that meet a local need.
This year, we received 115 applications, requesting approximately $940,000.
TIPS TO GROW YOUR GROUP
Are you part of an environmental group looking to attract more members and increase your impact?
Join us for a practical, hands- on workshop teaching you tips and tools to help you grow your reach and strengthen your work in the community.
When: Saturday 20 June 9.30am to 12.30pm
Where: Hobsons Bay Civic Centre, Altona
Cost: Free, however places are strictly limited and registrations are essential.
We’re also hosting a series of Winter Home Energy Efficiency workshops for all residents at Altona Library in June. View page 12 for details.
With $500,000 allocated in this year’s budget, each application has been assessed, and applicants will soon be notified of the outcome.
A list of the successful Make it Happen grant recipients will be published on our website in June at hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au/grants
A single tree can make a noticeable difference to comfort during hot weather; benefits that continue to grow stronger over time!
FREE TREES FOR RESIDENTS
Grow shade for the future
We’re giving away free trees to help create cooler, greener and more climate resilient neighbourhoods –and now is the perfect time to plant.
We know from climate projections that Greater Melbourne is expected to become hotter in the coming decades, with more frequent heatwaves and warmer nights in summer, and less reliable rainfall in the cooler months.
Planting trees on your property is one of the most effective ways to reduce heat, improve air quality and support local wildlife.
We’ve selected trees that suit local conditions, are resilient, shady, and suitable for our changing climate.
HOW TO REGISTER
• Scan the QR code below
• Choose your tree: select the best tree for your property
• Pick up: collect your tree in July from the Hobsons Bay Operations Centre, Altona
Depending on the species, trees are between 50cm and 1.5m in size, which can fit in the back seat of a car (you won’t need a trailer).
Numbers are limited, register today to claim your free tree.
Register
JOIN NATIONAL TREE DAY
Give back to nature and get some plants in the ground for National Tree Day on
Sunday 26 July at Altona Coastal Park, 10am to 12pm.
It’s our largest annual planting event with over 100 residents coming together to help the environment and celebrate their contribution with a delicious barbeque!
This year, we have 2,000 native plants, shrubs and trees ready to go into the ground.
Transforming Altona Coastal Park
Since we began celebrating National Tree Day in 2007, over 35,000 plants have been planted by the community. Our conservation ranger Suzette has seen the park transform from weed-filled paddocks into thriving native habitat.
“It’s overwhelming to see the change in vegetation and number of birds and other animals that have moved into the park thanks to community input and days like National Tree Day,” said Suzette.
“We’ve seen an increase in the number of bushland birds that now live permanently in the area, we have a higher diversity of birds that visit and the elusive Altona Skipper Butterfly is making a comeback.”
REGISTER
National Tree Day is a family-friendly event and all residents are invited to take part.
For more information and to register, visit hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au/ NationalTreeDay
INVESTING IN HOBSONS BAY'S FUTURE
Ahead of the state election this November, we’re calling on the state government to invest in Hobsons Bay and deliver the infrastructure and services our growing community deserves. We’re seeking a stronger partnership with the state government to deliver practical, local outcomes that will support our community now and into the future.
We are advocating for:
Stronger community infrastructure
Delivering key local projects, including Stage 2 of the Hobsons Bay Wetlands Centre, upgrades to the BayFit Leisure Centre, and continued investment in community spaces across our city.
Transport that works for the community
Improved public transport, including a new train station in Altona North, more reliable bus services, and safer, more accessible stations across Hobsons Bay.
Sustainable, climate-ready homes
Reinstating Environmentally Sustainable Design (ESD) standards so new housing is energy-efficient, comfortable and built for the future.
Accessible healthcare close to home
Greater investment in mental health and community services to ensure residents in the west have the same level of access as other parts of Melbourne.
Targeted local investment
Funding for park upgrades, sporting facilities, and critical infrastructure to respond to coastal impacts such as sea level rise and flooding.
Key asks
Hobsons Bay Wetlands Centre partnership
Ask Why
Contribute $5 million to help deliver Stage 2 of the Hobsons Bay Wetlands Centre.
Bayfit Leisure Centre upgrades
A regional facility, located alongside the internationally significant Ramsar-listed Cheetham Wetlands, would strengthen wetland protection, environmental education, and biodiversity outcomes, while supporting nature-based health and wellbeing.
Ask Why
Partner with Council to deliver priority upgrades to the BayFit Leisure Centre.
Upgraded facilities are essential to meet growing demand and ensure equitable access to health, fitness and rehabilitation services through a modern, inclusive recreation facility for all residents.
Connected and reliable public and active transport
Ask Why
Invest in a new train station in Altona North or reinstate Paisley Station.
Expand transport infrastructure grant programs for roads maintenance and prioritise funding for Hobsons Bay.
Upgrade station safety, lighting and accessibility and improve bus services across the municipality.
A train station is a core piece of infrastructure needed to support housing and population growth in Altona North. Infrastructure planning reviews have identified this station as a priority.
Many parts of Hobsons Bay are poorly served by public transport, with infrequent or indirect bus routes and limited connection to key destinations. Safe, reliable and well-connected transport is essential to improving access to jobs, education, services and community life.
Resilient, efficient and climate-ready housing
Ask Why
Reinstate the Environmentally Sustainable Design (ESD) provisions removed through the Planning Amendment Act 2025 and strengthen the enforcement mechanisms to ensure all new homes meet minimum quality and performance standards.
New housing is increasingly being delivered with weaker ESD requirements, leading to homes that are less energy efficient, less comfortable, and more vulnerable to climate impacts. Strong, consistent ESD requirements are essential to ensuring new homes are fit for a changing climate and the needs of future generations.
Fair access to health and community services
Ask Why
Increase investment in health and mental health services in Melbourne’s west to bring service availability in line with neighbouring local government areas.
Health and mental health services in Melbourne’s west remain under-resourced compared to other areas, leaving many Hobsons Bay residents facing long wait times or travelling outside the municipality to access essential support. Improving local access reduces inequity, shortens wait times and ensures care is available close to home, strengthening community health and resilience.
In the lead up to the election, we’ll continue to advocate strongly for Hobsons Bay and keep our community informed on progress.
To learn more, scan the QR code to view the priorities in full and see how you can stay informed and involved.
BETTER CITY BUILDING A
NEW OUTDOOR YOUTH SPACE
Altona North has a new outdoor space for young people featuring a pump track, multiple seating areas and a basketball half-court.
The new outdoor space in Paisley Park, called The Zone, was designed in collaboration with Council’s youth services team and incorporated input from youth representatives and local groups.
Through community consultation, we heard there was a lack of open areas and activities in Altona North and a need for outdoor places that were safer, friendlier and more fun.
The Zone, next to Altona Badminton Centre, aims to transform Paisley Park into a vibrant, creative, engaging and inclusive space for young people that is safe and welcoming for all.
The informal mudstone seating and timber platforms create study areas and spaces where young people can relax, be active and socialise.
The area will be well lit at night with solar lighting and has been landscaped with beautiful native plants and wildflowers. Stay tuned for an update on the opening event in the coming weeks.
SHARED VISION FOR WETLANDS TAKING SHAPE
New walking trails, elevated boardwalks and an open shelter have been built as part of Stage 1 early works for the Hobsons Bay Wetlands Centre in Altona Meadows, marking a significant step toward the creation of a regional environmental hub for Melbourne’s west.
Located next to the internationally recognised Ramsar-listed Cheetham Wetlands, the early works lay the foundation for the future development of a state-of-the-art wetlands community education centre.
It is envisioned that the Hobsons Bay Wetlands Centre is a place where people can connect with nature, enhance their health and wellbeing, and be inspired to care for our precious natural environment.
Construction works for Stage 1B are scheduled to be completed at the end of June 2026, with additional planting in spring.
The boardwalks and walking trails are scheduled to open in July/August 2026.
We’ve partnered with Hobsons Bay Wetlands Centre Inc to advocate for the next stage of the project.
Council has committed $5 million towards Stage 2, which is dependent on securing matching funding from state and federal governments to deliver a legacy environmental education and eco-tourism centre for Hobsons Bay and the broader western region.
The Hobsons Bay Wetlands Centre is one of our primary advocacy priorities, read more on page 6 and 7.
Native vegetation at the site of the proposed Hobsons Bay Wetlands Centre, Altona Meadows
The Zone pump track - Paisley Park, Altona North
The Zone - Paisley Park, Altona North
New walking trails at the site of the proposed Hobsons Bay Wetlands Centre, Altona Meadows
VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT
Hobsons Bay Arts Society has been part of our community for 47 years!
The non-profit organisation is run entirely by volunteers and aims to make art accessible to everyone in the community through low-cost classes, workshops and exhibitions.
Hobsons Bay Arts Society’s president, Mary Kennedy, loves being able to create a safe welcoming space for people to try new art forms.
“ You don’t know whether you’ll enjoy something until you try it,” said Mary.
“By creating affordable programs for people to try different art forms, we’re opening the door for people to gain confidence and embrace art.
“ We want every tutored program that we run to be available to all and based on interests whether it is drawing, oil painting, watercolour, pastels, acrylic or printing.”
The Hobsons Bay Arts Society currently has 125 members and has recently introduced half-priced membership for 18- to 30-year-olds. There are also family memberships which can include children (under 18).
This year, the arts society ran a series of successful art fundamental classes from Woods Street Arts Space in Laverton, in partnership with Council.
“It was wonderful to see such a diverse group of people coming together and connecting with each other to learn art fundamentals,” said Mary.
“ I get so much joy from being able to see other people try something new and embrace it.”
The Hobsons Bay Arts Society also runs the popular 5x7 Art Prize. Over 350 artists from Melbourne’s west and Hobsons Bay schools participated in this year’s exhibition at Louis Joel Arts and Community Centre.
Mary encourages anyone over 18 who is interested in art to become a member.
“ We take pride in being inclusive and welcome all artists, no matter where they are on their artistic journey, from beginners to working artists,” said Mary.
To find out more about the Hobsons Bay Arts Society and to become a member or join one of their classes, visit hobsonsbayartssociety.org.au
Write 100 words about your favourite Hobsons Bay business
Under 18 winner – Sylvie, 10 West Pointe Ballet Academy
The music beats high and low, Girls dance in tutus as white as snow, Practising for a recital, Swan Lake is its title, After awhile the music comes to an end, The teacher has costumes to mend, So she sends them off to snack So they eat the food they pack They tell stories they have been waiting to exchange, All I hope is, it doesn’t change!
Open winner – Leah Dunkley, Altona
Have you ever gone to bed with a meal inside your head?
A dish of eggs and prawns to be feasted on at dawn.
For that mouthwatering chilli scramble to Bezirk I would amble every single week into my waiting beak
‘The usual!’ we cry welcoming plates piled high
A conversation paused and food comas caused.
The kind of dish that begs,
Have you ever gone to bed with a meal inside your head?
Snap a photo of you taking part in your favourite hobby in Hobsons Bay for the chance to win a $100 voucher. There will be two categories: under 18 and open.
The winning photos will be published in the next edition of Hobsons Bay News. View the terms and conditions and enter the competition by Sunday 12 July.
LIBRARIES + COUNCIL NEWS
A BOOK FOR EVERYONE COLLECTIONS SHARING
Hobsons Bay Libraries have over 63,000 books. Stacked up, they would be higher than twelve West Gate Bridge pylons – that's 21 times higher than the bridge’s road deck!
Our diverse library collection has a huge range of books for all ages, abilities, and interests.
On Hobsons Bay library shelves, you’ll find translated books, bilingual books, large print and dyslexic books (these have different fonts more suited to people who are dyslexic).
Recently, we’ve added Auslan and braille books and kits.
Our family and engagement librarian Georgia is proud to expand the library's collection.
“These new collections are a fun, hands-on introduction to Auslan and braille as they include plain English text and colourful exciting illustrations,” said Georgia.
“In addition to our community languages, large print and dyslexic books, we're making sure there are books for everyone at Hobsons Bay libraries.”
Each Auslan kit includes an English language children's book, Auslan signage and tactile objects like toys and props to make reading fun.
Plus, there's Auslan stories on Storybox and Lote4kids. The online story collection is available 24/7, you don’t need to visit a library or reserve the book to gain access. You can also access ‘read aloud’ books via BorrowBox, just download the app and use your library membership.
The braille collection includes 19 picture books and two learning braille kits.
Thanks to the Libraries Victoria network, you can also borrow a book from other libraries across Victoria and have it delivered to your local library.
Simply search our online catalogue and reserve the item as you would for Hobsons Bay Libraries. Search results will show its home library service (eg. Yarra).
When your reservation is ready to collect at your chosen Hobsons Bay Library branch, we’ll let you know via text or email.
Not convinced we have something for everyone? Suggest a purchase to add to our library collection.
A DAY AT KINDERGARTEN
For kindergarten teacher Lynda Garland, every day of kindergarten starts with a big smile and a warm welcome.
“ We make sure the children feel safe and happy by providing a fun, supportive, inspiring, learning environment,” said Lynda.
“Our entire day is dedicated to the children and creating experiences for them.”
Lynda has been a kindergarten teacher for 18 years and enjoys being a sessional kindergarten teacher at Laverton Community Children’s Centre.
“ Children are so fun to be around and everything I do is fun,” said Lynda.
“ The activities we do are based on interests shown by the children, so every day is different. There’s lots of active play, outdoor activities, cooking experiences, stories, songs and creativity.”
Funded kindergarten is available at both sessional kindergarten and long day care for three- and four-year-olds.
Three-year-old kindergarten is available for children who turn three before 30 April each year, two years before they are eligible to start primary school.
Following three-year-old kindergarten, children start four-year-old kindergarten.
All children in Victoria are eligible for 15 hours per week (or 600 hours annually) of funded kindergarten in the year before they start primary school.
“ Kindergarten offers children exposure to social learning that they can’t get being at home,” said Lynda.
“ It prepares children to transition to school by providing a balance of structured learning and care.
“They learn how to build and sustain relationships, navigate social relationships with other children that have different personalities, build empathy and acceptance and learn the skills to become more independent.”
Throughout the kinder year, Lynda sees how children’s confidence grows from being initially shy to running into kinder and sharing what happened on their weekends.
She has seen how children use the conflict resolution skills they have been taught to deal with a conflict in the kindergarten yard.
Not only is kindergarten fun, but it’s a crucial part of preparing your child for school and fostering a love of learning.
REGISTER FOR 2027
Three- and four-year-old kindergarten registrations are open for 2027. Registration is free online through the Parent Portal. For more information on how to register, contact Council's early years team on 9932 1534 or visit hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au/kindergarten
Before starting four-year-old kindergarten, we recommend all children see their maternal and child health nurse to have a three and a half year health and development assessment.
To book an appointment, please call 9932 1300 or visit hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au/MCH
Kiki, 4
Mateo, 4
“Riding on bikes and playing football.”
Kindergarten teacher Lynda Garland at Laverton Community Children's Centre
NATIONAL TREE DAY
WHAT'S ON WOOD STREET ARTS SPACE EVENTS
Sunday 26 July, 10am to 12pm
Altona Coastal Park
Join our biggest annual community planting event. For details, read page 5.
UPCOMING
WILLY LIT FEST
EVENTS LIBRARY EVENTS
Friday 12 June to Sunday 14 June
Various locations
The Williamstown Literary Festival brings together readers, writers and book creatives for an annual celebration of storytelling, author talks, panel discussions and writing workshops.
Supported by Council’s Make it Happen grants program. For tickets, visit willylitfest.org.au
SEAWORKS WINTER SOLSTICE FESTIVAL
Friday 19 June, 5pm to 9pm
Seaworks, Williamstown Entertainment, food, music and community festivities.
COFFEE WITH A COP
Tuesday 16 June, 10am to 12pm
The Backyard cafe, Newport Tuesday 7 July, 10am to 12pm Coco Lane Union Quarter, G09 – 31 Mclister Street, Spotswood
Monday 17 August, 10am to 12pm
Laverton Community Hub
Ask questions, discuss issues, and get to know more about our local police members.
NEWPORT FOLK FESTIVAL
Friday 26 June and Saturday 27 June
Various indoor spaces
The Newport Folk Festival is back with bands, choirs, dancing and fine music. Supported by Council’s Make it Happen grants program. For tickets, visit newportfolkfestival.org.au
NAIDOC WEEK FLAG RAISING CEREMONY AND EXHIBITION
Thursday 9 July, 11am
Hobsons Bay Civic Centre, Altona
Celebrate and recognise the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
OPEN HOUSE MELBOURNE
Friday 24 July to Sunday 26 July
Across Hobsons Bay
Save the date to explore buildings, places and spaces in Hobsons Bay. For tickets, visit openhousemelbourne.org
Our libraries are fun, vibrant welcoming spaces. We run regular programs for all ages and interests including baby time, story time, art club, STEAM club, tech help and heritage advice.
Upcoming events include:
WINTER HOME ENERGY
EFFICIENCY WORKSHOPS
Save energy at home this winter with our series of free workshops, hosted by the team at Going Green Solutions.
NO AND LOW-COST ENERGY EFFICIENCY TIPS
Wednesday 10 June, 6pm to 7.30pm
Altona Library
Learn simple, low- or no-cost ways to reduce energy use and lower household bills, without sacrificing comfort.
LIVEABLE HOMES – WINTER COMFORT
Wednesday 17 June, 6pm to 7.30pm
Altona Library
Feeling the chill and spending big bucks trying to stay warm? Learn how thermal (heat) energy is lost from our homes, and a range of upgrades that help us stay comfy.
REDUCING SCAM STRESS
Friday 26 June, 10am to 11am
Altona Library
Learn how to spot warning signs, protect your information, and block unwanted contact.
LEGO CLUB FOR ADULTS
First Thursday of the month 6pm to 7.30pm
Altona Meadows Library
Get creative with LEGO in a safe and welcoming space (ages 18+).
HERITAGE HELP
12 and 26 June, 10 and 24 July 10am to 2.30pm
Williamstown Library
Every second Friday, you can access personalised one-on-one research assistance, either in our dedicated Heritage Room or via teleconference. All library events are free, but bookings required at hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au/events
44 Woods Street, Laverton
A creative space that offers free and low-cost workshops, art exhibitions and events.
Upcoming events include:
SAMANTHA BENNETT'S BUNURONG BASKET WEAVING CIRCLE
Saturday 27 June, 10am to 12.30pm and 1pm to 2.30pm
Led by Samantha Bennett, a Bunurong Traditional Custodian and descendant of Naynertgoroke, these workshops use the art and practice of traditional weaving to share stories of colonialism, culture and resilience.
Cost: $5, book online at hobsonsbay.vic. gov.au/woodsstreetprogram
CREATIVE KIDS AFTERNOONS
11 June, 25 June and 23 July, 4.30pm to 5.30pm
Free children’s art workshop, ages 5 to 12, prioritising play and creativity in a small group setting.
To book, visit hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au/ woodsstreetprogram
YOUNG PEOPLE EVENTS
WESTSIDE OPEN STUDIO SESSIONS
First Thursday of the month, 5pm to 7pm
Newport Community Hub
If you’re 15 to 25 years of age, this is your space to chill, connect and make music your way. Hosted by Westside Studio Crew & Hobsons Bay Youth Services.
YOUTH SERVICES SCHOOL HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES
Monday 29 June to Friday 10 July
Our youth services team is running fantastic free to low-cost activities for high school students (ages 12-17 years) during the winter school holidays.
YOUTH CON
Friday 10 July, 2pm to 5pm
Williamstown Town Hall
Youth Con is created, planned and delivered by local young people, with support from Hobsons Bay Youth Services. For details, visit hobsonsbay. vic.gov.au/youngpeople
