Divercity #57 - June - July 2011

the official newsletter of the city of port phillip | issn 1328-0309 | issue 57 june/july 2011

Cabaret Festival 19 - 24 July

Performance Port Phillip style: music, theatre and dance

The Official Newsletter of the City of Port Phillip

mayor’s

message…

Life begins at 40

This edition of Divercity gives you a great overview of all things performing arts in Port Phillip. There’s something happening here in the arts almost every day, and it is one of the things which make Port Phillip a great place to live.

One example is the 2011 Melbourne Cabaret Festival in July. Centred on the Emerald Hill arts and cultural precinct in South Melbourne, the festival has 37 different shows in the program.

Some may say it is not quite as entertaining, but we have recently released Council’s draft budget for 2011/12. Please take a look and let us know what you think.

As we move towards the third year of our four year council plan we continue to build on our four key directions: engaging and governing the city; taking action on climate change; strengthening our diverse and inclusive community and enhancing liveability.

The draft 2011/12 budget focuses on taking action on climate change and making Port Phillip more sustainable. We also aim to improve a range of important services for our community while maintaining a sound financial position.

We are proposing to spend a total of $8.5m in response to climate change, including reducing resource consumption and greenhouse emissions, advocating for sustainable transport, and assisting our community to access alternative energy.

Now is the time to respond to this urgent issue. Council has a responsibility to do what we can to prepare our community for the challenges ahead, and local government plays an important role in responding to climate change. This Council intends to play its part in what should now be urgent action by all levels of government.

We welcome feedback on the draft council budget and invite you to be part of ongoing conversations about the future of our city.

Mayor Cr Rachel Powning, City of Port Phillip Council pays its respects to the people and elders, past and present, of Yalukit Willam and the Kulin Nation.

We acknowledge and uphold their relationship to this land.

Residents celebrate ‘turning 40’ in Nelson Street, Balaclava. Reducing speed limits on local roads from 50 kph to 40 kph significantly reduces the severity of road trauma while making very little difference to travelling times.

Council is bringing in permanent 40 kph speed limits for side streets (local roads) in a number of residential neighbourhoods. This complements the recently installed 40 kph variable speed limit in shopping strips. One of the first areas to ‘turn 40’ was East St Kilda including the streets bounded by Brighton Road, Grosvenor Street, Gourlay Street, Hotham Street and Inkerman Street. In coming months areas around Fitzroy Street, Acland/ Barkly Streets, Clarendon Street, Bay Street, Victoria Avenue/Bridport Street and Glen Eira Road will also ‘turn 40’. Speed limits on main roads do not change (except where school zone and shopping centre speed limits apply).

Local women leading the way Four inspirational Port Phillip residents have been inducted into the Victorian Honour Roll of Women for 2011. The roll celebrates women who have made a lasting difference to Victorian society through business, community, charity, the arts and multicultural affairs.

Dale Fisher: In 2004 Dale became the first female Chief Executive of the Royal Women’s Hospital and has worked to improve the quality of healthcare for women.

Dr Wendy Poussard: Wendy co-founded the International Women’s Development Agency in 1985, which promotes gender equality and supports women suffering from poverty and oppression globally.

Brenda Richards: Brenda was a founding member of the Council of Single Mothers and their Children and has advocated on behalf of single mothers in the community.

Dr Diane Sisely: From 1994 to 2004 Diane was Chief Executive of the Victorian Equal Opportunity Commission and in 2007 she established the Australian Centre for Human Rights Education at RMIT University.

Search for 100 years of local photography Got any family photos taken in Port Phillip from 1880 to 1980? Council is calling for old photos taken in the Port Phillip area to be part of an Old Photographs Exhibition (8 – 16 October) during Seniors Festival. Photography entries close on 30 September.

There are also seniors writing awards and art exhibition in the Gallery with entries closing on 2 and 23 September respectively. Call ASSIST 9209 6777 or visit portphillip.vic.gov.au/seniors_festival.htm for details.

Cover: Cabaret is alive and well. This year’s festival includes Emily Taylor (Hello You), Gillian Cosgriff (Waitressing, and Other Things I Do Well), Emma Clair Ford (Lila Gray), Tom Dickins and Jennifer Kingwell (The Jane Austen Argument). Photo: Chris Cassar

portphillip.vic.gov.au

The Memo Hall off Acland Street will host a great variety of performances and events — from big bands to markets, t-parties to kids cabaret.

Bobby Valentine, Steve Purcell, Corey Thomas, Priscilla, Frank Howson and local impresario David Carruthers are looking forward to entertaining you.

Photo: Chris Cassar

The Memorial Hall (behind the St Kilda RSL in Acland Street) has been one of Port Phillip’s best kept secrets. Formerly a dance hall and picture theatre in the roaring 20s and struggling 30s, the hall has gathered dust in silence for decades. But that’s all about to change and the Memo Hall will be dark no more.

David Carruthers, from the Dog’s Bar and Slow Down, has won a 20-year lease on the hall and plans to reinstate it as a mecca for entertainment. ‘We plan to have cabaret, comedy, film events, a regular t-dance for seniors and much more,’ he told Divercity.

‘It’s perfect for dancing and small shows. It’s a fabulous location right in the heart of St Kilda,’ he said.

Watch out for events at the Memo Hall and see this magnificent space for yourself — you’ll be amazed that it’s stayed a secret for so long.

Social Justice in Port Phillip: Have your say The Port Phillip Social Justice Charter is on the agenda. You are invited to have your say in a number of ways. View the draft Social Justice Charter and complete a short on-line survey at portphillip.vic.gov.au/haveyoursay When you think about the term social justice, what does it mean to you? How can we continue to promote social justice in our community? Do you think social justice matters to all of the residents that live here?

You are also invited to attend one of the following discussion sessions. Please RSVP by calling ASSIST on 9209 6777.

The Mayor will launch the community consultation at the first session and Councillors will be available at other sessions.

Session 1 Wednesday 1 June, 2011 (RSVP by 27 May) 5.45 pm for 6.00 pm to 7.00 pm St Kilda Town Hall

See Future Fashion now

Re-fashion your wardrobe and be inspired at Future Fashion Now, a showcase of Melbourne fashion designers, suppliers, and crafty-persons who apply environmental or social sustainability principles to their creations. The event marks World Environment Day and will be held in the St Kilda Town Hall on Friday 3 June, 4.00 pm - 7.30 pm.

Session 3 Wednesday 15 June, 2011 (RSVP by 10 June) 5.45 pm for 6.00 pm to 7.00 pm Port Melbourne Town Hall

Bring along clothes to swap, and learn how to make jewellery from old or broken pieces; sew necklaces from fabric off-cuts; transform worn t-shirts into funky accessories; make a bolero from old jumpers; learn to knit and more. The evening will feature a fashion parade with outfits designed from waste materials, all by creative Elwood College students. Backed by local DJs, hip hop artists and hosted by the infamous, flamboyant ‘Green Queen’ of St Kilda, Kaye Sera.

Session 4 Wednesday 29 June, 2011 (RSVP by 24 June) 12.45 pm for 1.00 pm to 2.00 pm Mary Kehoe Centre, 224 Danks Street, Albert Park

A photo exhibition from the ‘I Made This!’ Facebook competition will also be on display, with winners decided by audience secret ballot on the night.

Search Future Fashion Now on Facebook for more, or call 9209 6548.

Session 2 Tuesday 7 June, 2011 (RSVP by 3 June) 3.45 pm for 4.00 pm to 5.00 pm Cora Graves Centre, 38 Blessington Street, St. Kilda

The Official Newsletter of the City of Port Phillip

Best kept secret no more

portphillip.vic.gov.au

The Official Newsletter of the City of Port Phillip

contact assist…

More events like the recent boat trip to Williamstown are planned.

Information, requests, questions and feedback You can visit your local ASSIST at: St Kilda Town Hall - Corner Brighton Road and Carlisle Street, St Kilda South Melbourne Town Hall 208-220 Bank Street, South Melbourne Port Melbourne Town Hall 333 Bay Street, Port Melbourne Telephone 9209 6777 Fax 9536 2722 TTY line 9209 6713 SMS for the hearing impaired 0432 005 405 Email assist@portphillip.vic.gov.au Internet portphillip.vic.gov.au

Translations For a translation of the information contained in this edition of Divercity please call the Council’s interpreter service: Chinese 9679 9810 Greek 9679 9811 Russian 9679 9813 Polish 9679 9812 Other languages 9679 9814

Audio recordings Audio recordings of Divercity are available on the Council’s website and on CD from a Port Phillip library. CDs are delivered to 200 vision-impaired residents every issue.

Information included in this magazine is accurate at the time of publishing but may be subject to change.

divercity June/July 2011

57

Editor: Greg Day gday@edunity.com.au Next deadline: (August/September edition) 17 June 2011 Writers: Reece Marks, Kathryn McGrath and Greg Day Photography: Chris Cassar, Greg Day and Reece Marks or as credited Design and Production: Mediation Communications Feedback: divercity@portphillip.vic.gov.au Divercity is printed on recycled paper

portphillip.vic.gov.au

Linking Neighbours Seniors Register keeps expanding After the very successful launch of the Linking Neighbours Seniors Register in March in Albert Park and Middle Park the numbers have continued to grow. Weekly coffee groups at Café De Cuba Elwood on Tuesdays, PM’s Café Port Melbourne on Wednesdays and The Albert Park Deli on Thursdays have been a great opportunity for neighbours to link up and develop new relationships.

Recently the Linking Neighbours travelled on the Tramboat to Williamstown. There are many other events being arranged for later on in the year such as a visit to the Woodlands Homestead to see the Living Legends (retired champion race horses), High Tea at Parliament House and Christmas lunch at the William Angliss Institute.

Application forms for the Linking Neighbours Seniors Register are available from ASSIST 9209 6777.

Mystery remains but Creswell will return For nearly 40 years the bronze bust of Royal Australian Navy (RAN) pioneer Vice Admiral William Creswell has been missing. But after persistent detective work by Navy League enthusiasts, the original cast has been uncovered and a new bust will be unveiled in July.

No one is sure what happened to the original bronze bust. Some say it was stolen and thrown from the pier by vandals. Others say that might be true but it was found only to be lost again in storage. But with the centenary of the RAN being celebrated this year, the Royal Melbourne Yacht Squadron (RMYS) offered a reward for information about the missing bust.

Word about the mystery swiftly spread in naval circles and a gold painted clay bust of Creswell was located in the Ward Room Museum at HMAS Creswell, the RAN College at Jervis Bay. Helping to coordinate the search was Commander John Wilkins from the Navy League (Victorian Division). ‘No one was even sure what the bust looked like, let alone where it was. At first we thought the replica was just another clue in the mystery,’ Commander Wilkins RFD* told Divercity.

Creswell family circa 1970.

But after looking at Creswell family photographs and other records it became clear that the museum bust was actually the original artist Wallace Anderson’s clay mould, sculpted in 1938.

‘With this mould we can create a new bronze bust that will be literally as good as new,’ he said.

Once again, the father of the navy will overlook the bay to Williamstown, the site of the first Royal Australian Navy training depot at Williamstown. Not a bad journey for a young bloke who joined the navy when he was just 13 years old in 1867.

The Navy League (Victorian Division) will be unveiling the bust of Creswell at its original site near the RMYS on 8 July.

South Melbourne’s Emerald Hill arts and cultural precinct is set to buzz when it hosts the second annual Melbourne Cabaret Festival, 19 - 24 July.

The precinct will host local, interstate and international talent across seven venues, with new cabaret shows launching every 15 minutes from 6.15 pm till late.

With a choice of 37 different shows, seven bars and extensive dining options — everything from bar snacks through to a dinner and show — there will be something for everyone. From comedy cabaret, music theatre stars, rock cabaret with the ARIA-award winning Dave Graney, New York styled acts, edgy cabaret and queer shows, it’s an entertainment extravaganza of epic proportions.

Emma Dean A dynamic talent, the New York Post recently acclaimed Emma as “One of the top ten performers to watch in 2011”.

Late night piano bar A touch of New York comes to South Melbourne. After the other shows are finished, come to the piano bar for a singalong with accomplished piano man Trevor Jones.

Headline acts include ‘A night with Faulty Towers’ who will debut a new cabaret version of their hit show.

Yes it’s cabaret night at Faulty Towers, but unfortunately Basil booked the acts. Sybil’s not impressed and Manuel is more confused than ever.

The Festival is bringing out ‘Le Gateau Chocolat’ from the UK. A feature act worldwide in La Clique, Le Gateau Chocolat is a larger-than-life opera-singing diva with a penchant for body-hugging lycra. A killer baritone who delivers moving renditions of pop, jazz and musical theatre.

The Festival is proud to give back to its neighbourhood by aligning with the South Melbourne Community Chest. The Community Chest has raised millions of dollars for worthy local causes over the past 60 plus years, and cabaret audiences will be given the opportunity to donate even more throughout the Festival.

Bookings: melbournecabaret.com

The Official Newsletter of the City of Port Phillip

Cabaret lights up South Melbourne

Luke Escombe

Best of the Fest, with Sammy J

This hip-hop come folk performer has been compared to everyone from Flight of the Conchords to Nick Cave to Eddie Perfect.

Come see why.

One of the most exciting and inventive performers on the international comedy scene, Sammy J, hosts a nightly sample of acts from across the Festival.

Suade Make no mistake, these are no choirboys. Using nothing but five well-trained voices and a wicked sense of humour, Suade takes stages by storm around the globe.

portphillip.vic.gov.au

The Official Newsletter of the City of Port Phillip

voice

in the crowd…

Port Phillip is one of Melbourne’s major arts precincts with a long history of producing great artists.

The music and comedy scene is still strong and there are several thriving independent theatres.

The influx of tourist traffic on weekends makes it a great location for sourcing audiences from all over Melbourne. The St Kilda Festival is one of the state’s premier street festivals and drives a lot of local and overseas tourist traffic to the area.

For an independent theatre, proximity to a vibrant cultural life is essential.

The cultural mix, including the Russian and Jewish communities nearby, is well suited to building an audience for intelligent, well-realised theatre production.

I have fond memories of travelling from the suburbs to St Kilda in my teens just to see a film at the Astor, or a show at Theatre Works, and, more often than not, a trip to The Esplanade and other venues by the foreshore to see bands.

Later on I also spent a lot of time at comedy/music venues like The Gershwin Room or The Middle Park Hotel.

Port Phillip has always seemed a natural fit for a boutique, edgy theatre company devoted to new writing and ideas about performance. The atmosphere here is really exciting.

Recently, the Council joined us in developing our new playwrights program, ‘Red Stitch Writers’, and we’ve been able to create some successful new work. For me, this is one of the greatest achievements in our company’s history.

Indeed most of our company lives in the area. I can’t imagine living anywhere else. Our neighbours are a broad mix of creative and alternative types, many were in bands from the 80’s and 90’s when live music was really happening.

There’s nowhere else in Melbourne with the same architectural and natural beauty. It’s always been an incentive to live and work here.

David Whiteley is artistic director of Red Stitch Theatre and a St Kilda resident.

portphillip.vic.gov.au

Big sounds in small places Michelle Harrington from St Kilda Rock Chronicle explores the big sounds coming from our smallest music venues. Walk around the corner and check them out.

Quiet drink over jazz? Dancing the night away with girlfriends? What are the best local Small venues like The Branch and others in Barkly Street have a big attraction. places to hear live music? I’m just getting started discovering the musical tapas of our live music scene, so here is a taster.

The Lyrebird, Ripponlea has shaped itself as the quintessential muso’s place to be. Drop in Friday to Sunday for local, national or international acts or Wednesdays to test your music trivia. How to recognise you’re there? A tiny lead lighted shop front and the buzz coming from inside.

Step off grungy St Kilda Road into Bar362 and get up close and personal with the music.

I’ve seen drag, dance and cracking rock, pleasingly without ten foot of security. Walk home munching on a kebab humming songs from the night’s performance.

Pause Bar, Balaclava says ‘mingle and enjoy’. Well with their increasing live music and cool Kasbah feel take them up on their offer! The wonder of an intimate chilled out venue? You can buy the guitarist/singer/percussionist a drink after the set to find out about their musical influences…and they’ve got wicked cocktails.

Stroll past The Branch, Barkly Street of an evening and you’d be forgiven for feeling you’d missed out on the party invitation. Invitations are not required, but it sure seems word has gotten around to grab a table for the sounds here!

Or try across the road at Pure Pop Records. Good things come in small packages so arrive early if you’re keen on a free intimate courtyard gig. Once the full house sign goes up, you keep on knocking, but you can’t come in!

We’ve always done things differently around here so it’s only natural a burgeoning scene of small venues has sprouted from our big musical past. Or maybe it’s our European heritage.

Who cares, if you love live music this is still the place to be!

In concert...

The Australian National Academy of Music (ANAM) relies on financial support from donors and subscribers to help maintain creativity, vibrancy, and give artists a space to discover and create. Divercity discovered that volunteers are also helping the Academy perform at its best.

Nicky Nixon began volunteering at ANAM at the beginning of the year. ‘Can’t bat, can’t bowl, but I Volunteer Richard Gubbins with musician can help,’ laughs Nicky. She has been helping out Emma Hunt. Photo: Chris Cassar with some housekeeping and kitchen duties. ‘The staff at ANAM are very committed. I’m happy to do a few things around the place so they can concentrate on their work.’ Nicky has been a subscriber with ANAM for years, and has taken the next step to become an active helper at an organisation she feels passionate about.

Richard Gubbins is a fellow ANAM volunteer. ‘I give assistance with some of the front of house activities, welcoming people at the lunchtime concerts, handing out pamphlets.’

A passion for classical music is what originally drew Richard to ANAM, ‘I attended the concerts and eventually found through talking to staff that there were ways I could help out.’

‘One of the most enjoyable times as a volunteer came when students from Albert Park Primary School came to a performance, and watching them enjoy the music was just wonderful,’ he said.

For just over a year and a half Theatre Works has hosted a dance collaboration called Project Y.

There are lots of places to learn performance skills in Port Phillip.

Here’s just a sample of the many local places to learn acting, singing, dancing — or all three!

Since its inception in 2009 by Artistic Director Paul Malek, Project Y has involved over 100 young people in regular rehearsals, workshops and live performances; activities which develop passion and understanding of the industry.

Jessica Jacobs School of Drama Build skills, confidence and selfesteem through drama. All ages. jessicajacobsschoolofdrama.com.au

‘It is extremely important to go through these processes while you are younger to hold you in great stead to move into the world, if not in dance, in life’, says Paul.

Actors Nest Classes for tweens, teens and adults on learning scripts, audition preparation and more. theactorsnest.com.au

Students are part of the creative process, performing in theatrical productions, installation events and even in film.

National Theatre Ballet School Junior school, senior school and fulltime courses with yearly performances to show off new skills. ballet.nationaltheatre.org.au

‘The response from the participants — their enjoyment, improvement and seeing them grow — is a wonderful experience, they never cease to amaze me’.

Project Y will be performing two different acts at Theatre Works in June: The Dream Machine, 1 - 4 June at 7.45 pm Move, 8 - 12 June at 7.45 pm Tickets can be purchased at theatreworks.org.au or call 9534 3388.

National Theatre Drama School Accredited full-time and short courses for those with eyes set on stage and screen. drama.nationaltheatre.org.au

Glittery Tapping Wonderland Aspiring dancers between 12 – 22 years old can check out the Project Y Facebook page for auditions and regular updates.

Miss Snowdrop and her team get kids and adults dancing from fairy ballet to funky hip-hop. glitterytappingwonderland.com

St Kilda Community Choir

Making SpARCs The stars of SPARC Theatre prove that you don’t have to be from Broadway to make great art.

Each Wednesday morning at the South Melbourne Community Centre, Artistic Director Nilgun Guven takes cast members through a series of activities to develop expression and prepare for their productions, which are usually held once a year.

SPARC Theatre was formed in 2005 and is a partnership between Council and arbias Limited. It offers theatre opportunities to participants who may not be involved in community activities due to disability or mental illness.

However SPARC Theatre is about what the cast members have to offer, which Nilgun says is ‘literally themselves — mind, body and soul’.

One of these cast members is Maureen O’Grady, who got involved in 2007 after seeing the production SPARCS Fly.

Pic: Jodhi Zutt

Learn to perform

The Official Newsletter of the City of Port Phillip

Y the future of dance looks bright

Singers are always welcome to join in the fun and meet new people.

Thursdays 6.30 pm – 8.00 pm Call Josh Morshead on 0437 006 420. or email josh@ppcg.org.au

Cadence Choir Join up for weekly rehearsals and a view to performing. Experience handy. Especially looking for male performers.

Saturdays 10 am – 12 pm, initially $15 per week to help cover costs.

Call Rosemary MacLean on 0407 332 725.

Sandridge Community Centre

Glamour Puss Studios

For Maureen the best part of theatre is simply acting. ‘I really enjoy it when people come up to me after a performance and say “I had no idea that you were blind!”

It’s the purrfect time to learn to tap dance! All ages. glamourpussstudios.com.au

Keep up to date on SPARC Theatre by visiting portphillip.vic.gov.au/ sparc_theatre.htm or call Access Arts Development Officer Cathy Horsley on 9209 6530 to learn more about getting involved.

All welcome to join this inclusive community choir at the EcoCentre on Thursdays at 5 pm.

Call 9534 0670.

The Gathering Choir Rehearsal

portphillip.vic.gov.au

Photo: James Henry

The Official Newsletter of the City of Port Phillip

Run away and join the circus — or at least learn how to swing wildly from a trapeze while singing and juggling. Circus Oz holds public classes every day of the week in their Port Melbourne rehearsal space for beginners to more advanced participants. Adults and kids sessions are available. Visit circusoz.com/classes

It’s Friday night and The Sweethearts are on stage, pounding out African beats to wild applause. Who are The Sweethearts? They are JCAAA’s Women’s African drumming group, each with a disability and each one an accomplished drummer. Classes take place at the African Drumming Centre in St Kilda and include a variety of drumming, music, singing and movement for women with disabilities.

For more information call Amanda at JCAAA on 9209 6159. This program is funded by DHS Southern Metropolitan Region.

Speaking of Gasworks Since its transformation from a gas plant in 1992 Gasworks Art Park has become a creative playground for painters, sculptors, photographers, actors, and theatre producers.

Erin Davidson, producer of the silent comedy Unspeakable 2011, chose Gasworks for show in the recent Melbourne International Comedy Festival.

The accessibility of the Gasworks facilities is a major draw card for Erin.

‘Accessibility to the arts is something I am passionate about and we chose Gasworks because the venue is fully wheelchair accessible and has a hearing loop system.’

Erin also appreciates the supportive staff. ‘Because we had such a positive experience with Gasworks with this production we are talking about Gasworks will be one of just two Melbourne venues to host holding another show there children’s play The Gruffalo in June. Left to right: staff later in the year.’ members Tamara Jungwirth, Shirley Billing (with Gypsy the dog), Robyn Birrell, Cara Williams and Gus Berger.

Photo: Chris Cassar

portphillip.vic.gov.au

Share the love: Theatre Works, Palais Theatre and Linden each have devoted audiences that love their art. Now these three local institutions have teamed up to share the love around by promoting each other’s programs. See a show at the Palais Theatre and Theatre Works and you’ll see Linden Art in the Foyer. Pick up a Palais Theatre What’s On guide when you visit Linden and Theatre Works. Subscribe to Theatre Works’ newsletter at Linden and Palais Theatre. Together they are St Kilda’s Arts Heart — drop by and get your heart racing. Pictured are Neil Croker (Palais CEO), Jan Duffy (Linden program director) and Daniel Clarke (Theatre Works creative director).

Cr Rachel Powning, Mayor Carlisle BH: 9209 6431 AH: 9527 1896 M: 0418 389 346 F: 9536 2711 E: mayor@portphillip.vic.gov.au Cr Janet Bolitho Sandridge BH: 9209 6705 M: 0411 096 400 F: 9536 2766 E: jbolitho@portphillip.vic.gov.au

d o o h r u o b h g i ne

focus…

Playgroup fun for kids and mums

Cr Judith Klepner Albert Park BH: 9209 6705 AH: 9682 7314 M: 0409 968 850 F: 9536 2768 E: jklepner@portphillip.vic.gov.au

The Official Newsletter of the City of Port Phillip

councillors…

Cr John Middleton Junction BH: 9209 6705 AH: 9645 9346 M: 0432 324 133 F: 9536 2719 E: jmiddleton@portphillip.vic.gov.au Cr Frank O’Connor Emerald Hill BH: 9209 6705 AH: 9690 1080 M: 0432 289 012 F: 9536 2708 E: foconnor@portphillip.vic.gov.au Cr Serge Thomann Catani BH: 9209 6705 AH: 9534 6297 M: 0432 299 372 F: 9536 2767 E: sthomann@portphillip.vic.gov.au Cr Jane Touzeau Point Ormond BH: 9209 6705 AH: 9531 8753 M: 0432 287 634 F: 9536 2769 E: jtouzeau@portphillip.vic.gov.au All enquiries during office hours should be directed to the Mayor and Councillors’ Office Mayor Tel: 9209 6431 (Barbara Wilson,

Mayoral Exec. Assistant) Fax: 9536 2711 Email: mayor@portphillip.vic.gov.au Councillors: Tel: 9209 6705 (Mary Baensch, Councillors’ Support Officer)

Fax: 9536 2708

Email: see individual email addresses All councillors email: councillors@portphillip.vic.gov.au Postal address: City of Port Phillip, Private Bag No. 3, PO St Kilda Vic 3182

ELWOOD: Elwood Shule is holding Mummy & Me — a playgroup for Jewish mums and kids. With coffee, bagels, music and circle time, mums will have a chance to meet and socialise with other parents while their children are free to explore and interact.

The group runs Tuesdays 12.00 pm – 1.15 pm and Thursdays 10.30 am – 11.45 am at 39 Dickens Street in Elwood. To enquire contact Rivki on 0433 676 301 or email rivki@elwoodshule.org

St Kilda Road under the spotlight ST KILDA ROAD: Council is reviewing the current and future needs of the St Kilda Road Precinct. Council is inviting all residents, businesses and property owners in the precinct to have their say. The review area is bounded by Dorcas Street, St Kilda Road, Queens Road, and Kings Way and includes an area along Albert Road to the south west of Kings Way. Over the last 10 years the number of people living within the St Kilda Road Precinct has increased by more than 50 per cent and there is more development on the way. The review will consider community needs, an appropriate scale for development, and infrastructure issues including traffic and parking. Visit portphillip.vic.gov.au/ haveyoursay, contact ASSIST on 9209 6777 or email stkildaroadprecinct@portphillip.vic. gov.au to get involved.

South Melbourne Council Chamber back in business SOUTH MELBOURNE: Council held its meeting in the chamber at the South Melbourne Town Hall for the first time in April. The Council Chamber has been refurbished, with patched and painted walls and ceiling, and re-upholstered benches. Council has a policy of rotating its meetings between the St Kilda, South Melbourne and Port Melbourne Town Halls. The refurbishment means that all Council Chambers at the three town halls are in use. The next meeting in South Melbourne will be on Tuesday 14 June.

Town hall piano concerto SOUTH MELBOURNE: Hoang Pham is an internationally-recognised Australian pianist and was the highest-ranked Australian in the 2008 Sydney International Piano Competition.

He will play pieces by Thomas, Saint-Saens, Haydn and Moszkowski. Tickets $20 full, $15 concession, available at the door. Sunday 26 June, 2.30 pm. South Melbourne Town Hall, 210 Bank Street, South Melbourne.

portphillip.vic.gov.au

The Official Newsletter of the City of Port Phillip

d o o h r u o b h neig

focus…

Mates celebrate anniversary

Food for thought ST KILDA: Restaurant Slow Down!@Harley Court is holding its Appetite for Insight film evening on the second Monday of every month. On these nights the main dining room becomes a cosy theatrette where patrons can watch food-related films, before sampling some of the cooking and wines on offer from Slow Down.

On 13 June they are showing One man, one cow, one planet. Doors open at 7.30 pm for 8.00 pm start. For more information visit slowdown.net.au or email transitiontownportphillip@gmail.com

Have your say on Port waterfront PORT MELBOURNE: Council is developing a Port Melbourne Waterfront Urban Design Framework (UDF) which will guide the future of the waterfront. The community consultation started with two public workshops where the community had their say on their vision and aspirations for the waterfront. Thanks to everyone who attended and participated in these sessions. Council will be conducting two more conversations with the community around objectives and outcomes in June and the draft urban design report in September. You can also have your say via our online forum: portphillip.vic.gov.au/haveyoursay or contact Steve Scott on 9209 6309 or email sjscott@portphillip.vic.gov.au for more information.

Fertilise your vocabulary

MIDDLE PARK: In 2001 Richard Barber got a few friends together for a coffee and chat at Le Petit Café (now Hot Honey) in Middle Park. Ten years later the group has grown in size, and they still catch up every Wednesday morning for a social gathering. This routine is important, according to Richard, who says it gives friends an opportunity to get out of the house and see each other on a regular basis.

ELWOOD AND BEYOND: Entries for the Elwood Poetry Prize 2011 close on Friday 19 August. This year’s theme is The Garden, and the competition is open to all residents and students in Port Phillip. Original poems written by individuals or groups are accepted and there are cash prizes on offer. Entry forms are available from assist@portphillip.vic.gov.au or ecocentre.com Alternatively you can call 9209 6777.

Not-for-profit brightens up Grey Street

Rouse Street West streetscape upgrade PORT MELBOURNE: Stage one construction works on the Rouse Street West upgrade have commenced. This includes central median and plants, a kerb outstand, passive irrigation system and plants, car parks and a bicycle lane. Residents will face some delays in traffic during works and some on-street car parking spaces will be temporarily closed. However, work will be carried out in stages and disruptions will be minimised. View the plans at portphillip.vic.gov.au/rouse_streetupgrade.htm

Boom gates at market car park SOUTH MELBOURNE: New boom gates at the roof top car park at South Melbourne Market will limit cars parking for extended periods, improving parking availability for shoppers. There is no change to parking fees for Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, i.e. $1.20 per hour up to a max. of $5 per day. Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday have first two hours free (as before) but then $6 for three hours, $25 for four hours and rising to $60 for whole day.

Results of Queens Road crossing survey ST KILDA ROAD: Nearly 400 responses were received to a community survey about improved pedestrian crossing of Queens Road, including the possibility of a pedestrian/cycle bridge. 60 per cent of the respondents said another crossing point was needed while 40 per cent were not sure or felt it was not needed. Of those that wanted another crossing, most thought a bridge was a better option than a street level pedestrian crossing. There was no clear preference for a particular crossing location. Council will use the survey in discussions with other stakeholders including The Golf Club, Parks Victoria, Vic Roads, Heritage Victoria and key businesses.

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ST KILDA: Youth international development group Y Generation Against Poverty (YGAP) has moved into new headquarters on Grey Street. ‘The HQ will act as a creative hub for people to attend meetings, workshops and events, and create social change with other like-minded people’, says CEO and co-founder Elliot Costello (pictured). The organisation is currently looking for individuals or organisations that are willing to support them by donating a week’s rent and/or tables, chairs, office supplies. If you are able help out, email scott.duncan@y-gap.org

Community gardens ready to grow ELWOOD/ALBERT PARK: Designs have now been finalised for the two new community gardens at the Elwood St Kilda Neighbourhood Learning Centre and the Mary Kehoe Community Centre in Albert Park. To view the plans for the gardens go to haveyoursayatportphillip.net.au Construction will be completed by July.

The Official Newsletter of the City of Port Phillip

New family and children’s centre started ST KILDA: Construction has started on a new integrated family and children’s centre at 171 Chapel Street, near the corner of Carlisle Street.

It is expected that the centre will be complete in mid-2012. The new centre will offer up to 116 licensed children’s service places (an increase of 63 new places on the current number at St Kilda Children’s Centre), maternal and child health services, spaces for playgroups, new parent groups, early childhood intervention services, family services, and multi-purpose use rooms. For more information visit portphillip.vic.gov.au

Helping hand on the sand

On the ball PORT MELBOURNE: The renewal of the outdoor basketball and netball surface at Julier Reserve on Dunstan Parade has been completed as part of Council’s Sports Facilities Renewal Program.

Demonstration day for local dogs

ELWOOD: A new community group has been set up to help keep Elwood Beach clean. Members of 3184 Beach Patrol can volunteer an hour a month cleaning up rubbish from a selected area of the beach. There will also be group cleans with social functions afterwards. To learn more and get involved visit 3184beachpatrol. com.au

Join Jane by the canal ELWOOD: Join Cr Jane Touzeau in her efforts to pick up litter around the Elwood Canal. Meet at the Glenhuntly Road Bridge opposite Elwood Primary School on Sundays 5 June and 3 July at 10 am. Bring gloves and a couple of bags (one for recyclables).

Keep track of tram upgrades ST KILDA: Tram upgrade works will take place on Fitzroy Street and The Esplanade over a 7-9 day period in June or July. Work will be undertaken between Grey and Cavell Streets to replace the tracks. During this time Fitzroy Street will be closed to all traffic.

Tram stop 136 near Alfred Square will also be upgraded to a platform stop. Pedestrians will be able to access all shops and properties during the project. To keep track of the latest service changes and information visit yarratrams.com.au

PORT MELBOURNE: Hobsons Bay Obedience Dog Club (HBODC) will be relocating to their new venue in Garden City Reserve around September, with Council providing the club with suitable facilities within the Sandridge Community Centre. The not-for-profit group will also be having a Demonstration Day at Garden City Reserve on Sunday 5 June at 10.15 am – 11.00 am. Come along and watch the club in action. To find out more about the club visit hbodc.asn.au

Composting together ELWOOD: Visitors to Dawkins Reserve on Gordon Avenue will soon be able to make use of new community compost bins — known as Aerobins. Several of these nifty contraptions are expected to be installed in June. The public can contribute organic waste and take away composted material. The project is supported by Council’s Small Poppy Neighbourhood Grants.

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The Official Newsletter of the City of Port Phillip

d o o h r u o b h g nei

Protests and piers

Pause and reflect for homeless

ST KILDA: Visit the sites and learn about the famous St Kilda protest campaigns including Anti-Bathing laws (1920s), St Moritz (1982), Mandalay Flats (1990), Penguin Sanctuary (1991), St Kilda Sea Baths (1993), Anti-amalgamation (1994), Esplanade Hotel (2001), The Vineyard (2005), and the proposed Triangle project.

Sunday 17 July, 10 am – 12 pm.

focus…

July and August’s neighbourhood walks will take a look at the history of protest in our city, as well as the hive of activity that has always been our piers. Bookings are essential for both. Email walking@portphillip.vic.gov.au or call 9209 6522.

PORT MELBOURNE: Discover Port Melbourne’s past and present piers, which have been entry points for millions of people not only to Sandridge but the colony of Victoria. Such piers as Station, Princes, Lagoon and Town all tell important stories of migration, war, railways, trade, fishing, coal, waterside workers and modern leisure. Sunday 14 August, 10 am – 12 pm.

Be creative while learning ELWOOD: Elwood/St Kilda Neighbourhood Learning Centre has a new range of evening courses to inspire creativity and brush up on technical skills, including short story writing, song writing, drawing and painting, using watercolours, light painting, and night time photography.

New computer courses include Skype, getting the most from your digital camera, and digital darkroom. The centre is located at 87 Tennyson Street, Elwood. For more details visit esnlc.com.au or call 9531 1954.

ST KILDA: A public remembrance ceremony will be held to honour and respect those who have died due to homelessness. The Homeless Memorial 2011 is a chance to reflect about the plight of people who are marginalised in our community. Wednesday 22 June 5.00 pm – 7.30 pm at Peanut Farm Reserve, corner Chaucer Street and Shakespeare Grove.

Fundraiser concert in the heart of St Kilda ST KILDA: The Palais Theatre is playing host to this year’s Heart of St Kilda Concert on Monday 27 June, to help raise money for Sacred Heart Mission. Performers include Jimeoin, Jon Stevens, Paul Kelly, Tripod, Wolfgram Sisters, Des Dowling, Cal Wilson, Billy Miller and Russell Morris, as well as house band Even and Brian Nankervis playing host. Visit sacredheartmission.org

Two number one supporters

Step in the recycled direction ST KILDA: Recycled glass sand has been used in the reconstruction of the Fitzroy Street footpath between Acland Street and Park Street. The footpath was constructed using a base of mixed recycled crushed concrete and 30 per cent glass sand, with a slab of concrete poured on top. The works form part of a Municipal Association of Victoria field trial, which sees the Fitzroy Street footpath the second in Victoria to use recycled glass sand.

PORT MELBOURNE: Toyota Community Spirit Gallery will be holding two exhibitions in the June/July period. The Butterfly Effect runs until Friday 24 June and features the works of 52 emerging artists from such cities as Hobsons Bay and Port Phillip. The Undergraduate will launch on Wednesday 6 July and will run until Friday 21 October, with entries and awards for Victorian tertiary visual arts students.

Entry to exhibition is free.

155 Bertie Street, Port Melbourne.

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Image by Glen Barton

Young talent on display

ST KILDA: Dave Hughes and Brenda Richards have become joint number one ticket holders at St Kilda City Football Club. The club is kicking goals big time and is reigning 2010 Division 1 senior premiers after also winning premierships in 2007 and 2009. See the boys play home games at Peanut Farm on 18 June Vs Heatherton, 25 June Vs Tooronga Malvern and 30 July Vs Cheltenham. Colts (U18) start at 9.30 am, Reserves start at 11.45 am and Seniors start at 2.00 pm.

The club is celebrating the 40th anniversary of the 1971 Premiership team with a black tie event at One Fitzroy Street on 16 July. The St Kilda City Gala Night will involve a sit down meal, entertainment and some quality sporting memorabilia will also be auctioned on the night.

For full details stkildacity.com or call 0419 324 385.

The Official Newsletter of the City of Port Phillip

in brief

Megahertz V Rockdogs

Market goes viral and a bit corny Will Jason Corn defect from the supermarket produce section? Last seen on his way to the South Melbourne Market, find out if he reaches the fresh stuff before time runs out.

A collaboration between South Melbourne Market and local filmmaker Mick O’Malley, The Corn Identity is a highpaced, action-packed thriller, a spoof on the Jason Bourne films. To watch, visit YouTube.com and search ‘The Corn Identity’.

Songs from the market

The Megahertz, Winners of the 2010 Community Cup

The 2011 Reclink Community Cup pits the Megahertz broadcasters from Triple R 102.7 FM and PBS 106.7FM against local favourites the Espy Rockdogs in a game of rough and tumble AFL, backed by tunes from local music acts. All funds raised go to Reclink. More info at communitycup.org.au Sunday 26 June, Elsternwick Park

Do you have time and love to give?

Julian Steel, the South Melbourne Market’s resident busker, has released his first album Songs from the South Melbourne Market.

At just fourteen years of age, Julian is a talented drummer/guitarist and his passion for music has found him a place at the Victorian College of the Arts Secondary School. Next time you’re at the Market, check him out and pick up one of his CDs.

Nominate a local hero The annual City of Port Phillip Civic Awards celebrate the extraordinary contributions of everyday people. The awards are your chance to acknowledge those local volunteers and projects that play a key role in building a strong community. All nominees will be recognised at the awards presentation evening on Thursday 1 December 2011.

• 2011 Citizen of the Year • 2011 Young People’s Award • 2011 Seniors’ Award • 2011 Civic Project of the Year Nominations opened in May. To join the mailing list email your details to 2011civicawards@portphillip.vic.gov.au or call 9209 6762.

The Gruffalo

There is an extreme shortage of foster carers in Victoria. MacKillop Family Services are looking for people who love children, can offer a stable home and would be willing to undergo training to become a foster carer. There are thousands of children in Victoria currently unable to live with their families. MacKillop Family Services provides support and assistance to these children, and tries to match them with foster carers. Being a foster carer, whilst challenging, is an extremely rewarding way to contribute to your community. If you think you can open your home and your heart, please contact Rachel Cox on 9699 9177 or email rachel. cox@mackillop.org.au

Morning tea and music The Best of British is a tribute to Gracie Fields, Vera Lynn, Andrew Lloyd Webber and more in 100 years of British hit songs. Starring Jason Wasley (Opera Australia), Michelle Fitzmaurice (Guys and Dolls), Christopher McKenna, and Cheryl Darvidis (Melbourne Opera) with Musical Director David Cameron. Morning tea provided.

Tickets $23 at gasworks.org.au or phone 9699 3253 (+bf) 21 June, 11 am Gasworks Theatre, Gasworks Arts Park

Join Mouse on an adventurous journey through the deep, dark wood in this magical, musical adaptation of picture book The Gruffalo by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. Fun for children aged 3 and up.

Tickets $18, book at gasworks.org.au or phone 9699 3253 (+bf).

24-25 June at 10 am and 12 noon Gasworks Theatre, Gasworks Arts Park

Hindmarsh painting weekend Members of the Emerald Hill Art Group will participate in a painting weekend in June to exchange skills and art expertise with the Hindmarsh Art Group and develop friendships between the two community art groups.

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The Official Newsletter of the City of Port Phillip

in brief Talk about Elfriede Jelinek, Nobel Prize winner

Drop in Council energy use

Council is engaged in a three year capital works program with almost thirty historic, civic and military monuments and memorials prioritised for conservation and restoration.

Specialised and time-consuming, this work is critical to preserve our testaments to the people and history of the city.

Retrofits to Council buildings have resulted in drops in energy use of 25 per cent at St Kilda Library, 27 per cent at Albert Park Library and 19 per cent at South Melbourne Depot.

2010-2011 works included: Port Melbourne: WW1 Memorial Fountain and Liardet Memorial South Melbourne: South African Soldiers Memorial, Bank Street Memorial Fountain and Charles Moore Memorial St Kilda: Edward O’Donnell Memorial, St Kilda War Memorial (Cenotaph), Captain Cook Memorial, Sali Cleve Fountain, Schipperheyn sculpture and Edwin Knox Memorial Jelinek was awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature in 2004 for her novel The Princess Dramas. Together with the Goethe-Institut, Red Stitch Theatre offers an afternoon talk on Elfriede Jelinek, providing insight into this extraordinary author and her work.

A concluding discussion enables interaction with actors from the current Red Stitch production, experts and media representatives. Light refreshments provided.

Book tickets by calling 9533 8083.

11 June, 2.30 pm - 5.30 pm Goethe-Institut Melbourne 448 St Kilda Road, Melbourne

Puppet play Javanese shadow puppet play ‘Water War’ or A Wayang Kancil tells the story of chaos among the animals. The forest is being logged; drought means the animals don’t have enough water. Kancil, the clever mouse deer, saves the day. Master puppeteer Ki Eddy Pursubaryanto from Yogyakarta will be backed by the Permai Gamelan Orchestra.

Tickets $20 Full / $15 Conc. / $5 Children.

Friday 29 July, 10.15 am, 1 pm, 8 pm Gasworks Arts Park Theatre Cnr Graham and Pickles Streets, Albert Park

Carbon tax and greenhouse action plan Learn more about the impact of a carbon tax for residents and businesses in the City of Port Phillip, the best ways to generate clean energy in the local area, the Council’s draft Greenhouse Action Plan and more. Hear from energy experts and Council staff, and have your say. For more information phone ASSIST on 9209 6777 or visit enviroehub.com.au Wednesday 29 June, 6.00 pm - 8.30 pm St Kilda Town Hall Council Chamber

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Monumental task continues

portphillip.vic.gov.au

2011-2012 works will include: Elwood: Point Ormond Memorial cairn Port Melbourne: Centenary Bridge Memorial, George Summerhill Memorial and Railway Accident Memorial (Maskell & McNabb) South Melbourne: Albert Road Fountain, Eastern Road Fountain and HH Skinner Memorial St Kilda: Catani Clock Tower, Isaac Jacobs Fountain, Obelisks and site of St Kilda’s first building.

A city where you can live car free?

The retrofitting included: • R eplacing old lights with more efficient alternatives • Installing timers and sensors on lights • Adjusting temperature settings and installing run-out timers on air conditioners • Installing roof insulation • Installing water efficient taps and toilets.

Retrofits are almost complete at 13 children’s services buildings, the South Melbourne Transfer Station, South Melbourne Town Hall and St Kilda Town Hall.

Vacation Care opens at Port Melbourne Primary School Now running at both St Kilda and Port Melbourne primary schools, Port Phillip’s Vacation Care Chill Out sessions are a hot way to enjoy the July holidays. Experience heaps of winter warm-up fun at Oakleigh’s Indoor Sports Centre with bowling, learning footy tactics, singing karaoke with DJ Dolly, African drumming and much more.

Port Phillip’s Vacation Care program is a fully licensed and accredited children’s service providing quality care during school holiday periods. If you are 5 to 12 years of age, and enrolled in primary school, you can attend the program. Childcare benefit and Council subsidies are available to eligible families.

Please contact the Vacation Care Team on 9209 6427. Booking forms available at schools and town halls from Monday 6 June.

Flashing at Fed Square

Council wants Port Phillip to be a liveable city where residents, visitors and workers can live and travel car free by improving the convenience, safety, accessibility and range of our sustainable travel choices. The Sustainable Transport Strategy, Walk Plan 2011–2020 and Bike Plan 2011–2020 are part of planning the way forward. The consultation period for these documents will take place from 21 May to 20 June 2011.

View the draft documents and comment at enviroehub.com.au or at your local ASSIST centre or library. For more information call ASSIST on 9209 6777.

Feedback sessions Saturday 4 June, 8 am – 1 pm Veg Out Farmers Market, Peanut Farm Reserve, Chaucer Street, St Kilda Wednesday 15 June, 12 noon – 4 pm LG Kitchen, South Melbourne Market, Cecil Street, South Melbourne

‘I don’t know how you guys feel but I feel awesome!’ was a comment overheard after the Rawcus flashmob was held at Federation Square in March. Rawcus, a local theatre ensemble of people with and without disabilities, created the flashmob for Council’s YouTube Project funded by the Department of Human Services (Southern Region). Over 400 people with and without disabilities from across Victoria participated in the event which was filmed for YouTube broadcast. View their film by following the links at portphillip.vic.gov.au/access_arts.htm

After dark photography

Artwork from Jason Knowles and Steve Harrison will be on display at the Gallery from 29 June.

The Council invites artists and community groups to submit expressions of interest for the 2012 exhibition program in the Gallery. Located in the St Kilda Town Hall, the Gallery presents exhibitions which have relevance to the cultural vitality of Port Phillip and its community. It is a versatile space with the capacity to present a range of visual arts practice including painting, sculpture, printmaking, ceramics, photography, textiles, media and installation works.

Photography Night Walks bring a bunch of people together to stroll the streets and snap some great pics. During May, guide and professional photographer Jess Edgar gave hands-on lessons to beginners and more expert camera wranglers. A part of a broader program by Council to encourage residents to document their city, the walks have led to the creation of some wonderful images.

View them online at flickr.com/ groups/1615586@N24/ For more info, visit jessicaedgarphoto.com

The closing date for the 2012 exhibition program is Friday 15 July 2011.

July cut-off for flood relief

Contact Louisa Scott, Curator by calling ASSIST 9209 6777 or email lscott@portphillip.vic.gov.au

Home owners, tenants and boarders who were affected by the floods in January and February can apply for a ‘Damage to House and Contents’ gift from the Victorian Floods Disaster Relief Fund.

Coming up at the Gallery 25 May to 22 June 2011: Photographic series: At the Dark End of the Street — Elwood at Night by Cathy Henenberg 29 June to 27 July 2011: Celebrating Culture: Works by Indigenous artists at the Galiamble Men’s Recovery Centre

Community bus and market bus to merge A number of regular travellers use the free Market bus to take them to the South Melbourne Market. From 1 July this free service will be integrated into the free community bus program. There will still be a free bus route to the market, with all access facilities and space for shopping jeeps, and a range of other useful destinations. Council staff will be riding the Market bus in June to explain the changes to bus users and gather feedback about the routes. Contact Marg Moore via ASSIST 9209 6777 to find out more.

The Official Newsletter of the City of Port Phillip

Keen to be seen?

The first stage payment is $1,000 to help with immediate costs. The second stage, larger payment, will be made once all applications are received. At the second stage, funds will be divided among all who qualify.

Householders have to meet eligibility criteria to qualify. For more information or to apply call 1800 180 213 or visit dhs.vic.gov.au/ floodsappeal The closing date for applications is 1 July 2011.

If you would like to donate to the floods appeal, do so at redcross.org.au or by calling 1800 811 700.

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