I represented Port Melbourne on the Port Phillip Council 2004 to 2012 (Mayor 2006 and 2007). On Council, I was a strong advocate for Port and our parks, as well as for walking and cycling. As a community planning activist back in the '90s, we contributed to moderating the scale of development in Port Melbourne. Now I draw on my experiences in Port to contribute to the groups I'm involved with, and particularly stand up for telling the stories of the past and elevating the importance of nature to our wellbeing.
Having lived in Port Melbourne for over thirty years now, I have a strong network here. Since I was new to Australia (from 1987) I really appreciated all the opportunities that were offered for getting involved. I took them all. My main involvements in the local community are with the Port Melbourne Historical and Preservation Society and Friends of Westgate Park. I also join in 3207 Beach Patrol's monthly cleans and take an occasional dip with the Icebergers. One of the high points has been to join in community celebrations and supporting community activities of every kind.
I connect in Port Melbourne both formally through the groups I am involved in and informally - mainly through walking down Bay St or along the beach. I am very likely to meet someone I know along the way. I strongly believe that walking and cycling assist in promoting community because you are always able to stop for a chat.
My blog is called Port Places, I write about Port Melbourne and the places around it - giving a bit more detail and substance than you might find in the local paper. I think people want to know what is happening around them on issues such as the Port, and planning. I also like to celebrate the work of people doing great things in our community.
Written by Janet Bolitho
Photo by Michelle
Having lived in Port Melbourne for over thirty years now, I have a strong network here. Since I was new to Australia (from 1987) I really appreciated all the opportunities that were offered for getting involved. I took them all. My main involvements in the local community are with the Port Melbourne Historical and Preservation Society and Friends of Westgate Park. I also join in 3207 Beach Patrol's monthly cleans and take an occasional dip with the Icebergers. One of the high points has been to join in community celebrations and supporting community activities of every kind.
I connect in Port Melbourne both formally through the groups I am involved in and informally - mainly through walking down Bay St or along the beach. I am very likely to meet someone I know along the way. I strongly believe that walking and cycling assist in promoting community because you are always able to stop for a chat.
My blog is called Port Places, I write about Port Melbourne and the places around it - giving a bit more detail and substance than you might find in the local paper. I think people want to know what is happening around them on issues such as the Port, and planning. I also like to celebrate the work of people doing great things in our community.
Written by Janet Bolitho
Photo by Michelle
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