Free coffee, conversations, and the future of Docklands

As Community3008 Inc. marks its first anniversary, we’re inviting everyone in Docklands to come together over coffee and conversation to help shape the future of our neighbourhood.

Over the next three Saturdays, Community3008 will host a series of free community coffee meetups across Docklands. This will be a relaxed way for residents and local business owners to connect, share ideas, and talk about what they’d like to see from the organisation in its second year. Everyone who attends will also receive a free Community3008 membership for their first year, giving access to upcoming events, community news, and some exciting things launching in 2026.

The meetups will take place at three much-loved local cafés:

• Saturday, November 8 at D.G. Expresso, 63 Merchant St
• Saturday, November 15 at Shall We Coffee, The Marketplace, The District Docklands
• Saturday, November 22 at 18 Pence Lane, 82 River Esplanade

These gatherings are all about listening to the voices of our community – from residents and families to small business owners who make Docklands what it is. We want to hear directly from the community about what matters most: from neighbourhood activation and local events to safety, dog parks, greening, and improving the experience of living and working here.

Looking ahead: Community3008 AGM and celebration

The month will culminate with the Community3008 Inc. annual general meeting (AGM) on Wednesday, November 26, to be held aboard the Magic Charters ferry, a fitting venue to celebrate our waterfront community and everything we’ve achieved together in our first year.

The AGM will be an open and inclusive event, members and non-members are welcome to attend. Members will have voting rights, and anyone who isn’t yet a member can join for free on the day. The meeting will include the election of the new Community3008 Inc. committee, presentation of our second-year plan, and an evening of celebration with free food and entertainment for everyone to enjoy.

A highlight of the evening will be our panel discussion, “What Does the Future Hold for Docklands?”, featuring some special guests including a representative from Development Victoria. The panel will explore how Docklands can continue to grow into a vibrant, safe, and connected community while preserving its unique waterfront character. The City of Melbourne will also be providing an update.

The power of representation

Community3008 was created because local representation matters. When residents and small businesses have a seat at the table, decisions are better, outcomes are fairer, and our community becomes stronger.

Our first year has shown the difference that grassroots leadership can make, from advocating for better public spaces and facilities, to supporting local traders, to ensuring every voice is heard in shaping the future of our precincts.

As a Community3008 representative, I’ve also recently met with Victoria Police to discuss local safety concerns raised by residents. It’s clear that safety remains a top priority for our community, and I’ll be providing a full update on this discussion including steps being taken to improve coordination and visibility at the AGM.

Join the conversation

Community3008 is a not-for-profit association led by Docklands community members. We exist to build a stronger, more connected, and more representative community, one that truly reflects the people who live, work, and invest here.

Join us for a coffee this November, share your ideas, and be part of shaping the next chapter for Docklands. Then, come celebrate with us at our AGM on November 26, aboard the Magic Charters ferry, where we’ll look back on a successful first year, look ahead to the next, and celebrate the people who make Docklands home.

For more information, visit community3008.org.au and make sure to RSVP to the AGM. •