Neighbourhood House Week is a vibrant celebration of the incredible work happening in local communities across Australia. This year’s theme, Your Place to Connect, highlights how Neighbourhood Houses provide welcoming spaces for everyone to come together, share experiences, learn, and support one another.
What to Expect
Throughout the week, Kingston's Community Centres and Neighbourhood Houses host a variety of activities designed to foster connection and community spirit. From magic shows and petting zoos to cultural lunches and tech support sessions, there is something for every family member to enjoy. These events encourage participation, learning, and social interaction in a warm and friendly environment.
Activity Details
- Aspendale Gardens Community Centre celebrates 30 years with fun activities including a magic show, petting zoo, face painting, balloon twisting, messy play, and playgroup on May 16 from 10:00 to 12:00.
- Chelsea Heights Community Centre hosts a Community Swap event on May 12 from 11:00 to 13:00, where you can swap clothes, toys, plants, and household goods.
- Cheltenham Community Centre offers culturally inspired lunches from May 11 to 15 at 12:30 to 13:30 featuring Italian, Turkish, Mexican, Indian, and Japanese cuisines.
- Other highlights include Tai Chi sessions, Chatty Cafés, Biggest Morning Tea fundraisers, free classes for new participants, savvy seniors tech support, crochet workshops, and a community lunch aiming for the largest community-led lunch record.
Location and Access
Events take place at various community centres across Kingston including Aspendale Gardens, Chelsea Heights, Cheltenham, Clarinda, Dingley Village, Longbeach, Mordialloc, Patterson Lakes, and Westall Community Hub. Most venues are easily accessible by public transport and offer welcoming, family-friendly facilities.
Important Information
Most activities are free or low cost, with some requiring bookings or RSVP, especially for workshops and community lunches. Activities cater to all ages and abilities, with no prior experience needed for workshops like Tai Chi and crochet. Bring your own devices for tech support sessions. Check individual centre websites for ongoing activities beyond the week.
Booking and Prices
Many events are free, but some require bookings or donations, such as the Biggest Morning Tea which encourages gold coin donations. For bookings and more information, contact individual community centres or visit their websites. Contact details are provided for specific events like the Patterson Lakes Crochet Workshop and Westall Community Hub lunch.