New programs set to empower Docklands residents

A farmers’ market and a new community group are among four exciting new initiatives set to be launched in Docklands, bringing residents and businesses together.

The City of Melbourne has worked closely with a newly created Docklands Stakeholder Group (DSG) – a key action from the 2022 Docklands Summit – which will deliver ongoing programs and events, giving the community a greater voice.

This includes establishing a community 3008 group, which will focus on grassroots activations and local issues while bringing together passionate individuals who care about their neighbourhood.

This group has existed as an online network and will expand to conducting in-person activities and engagements. 

A spokesperson from DSG said, “Having a considered forum in a respectful space will make a huge difference for a community trying to build connections whilst living and operating under ongoing residential development, DV and the Docklands Act (1991)”.

“The new community group will be run by Docklands residents for Docklands residents, local businesses are also welcome to join,” the spokesperson said.

“Once established, the group will give residents a place to raise, and work on, community concerns, and effectively get ‘a seat at the table’ at many meetings that previously have not been open to us.”

The spokesperson added the group, which will have an executive committee of at least five people, will also enhance connectivity between already established community groups while encouraging new groups and social connections to be formed. 

A community meeting will be held on April 17 at 6.30pm at The Hub at Docklands, where all residents are welcome to attend and to provide their input into the community group.

To register your interest in attending the meeting email, [email protected] or [email protected].

Another new program to be created will be a monthly Docklands Farmers Market to be held at a central location where shoppers can access fresh fruit and vegetables and support the farmers of Victoria.

“The community will also be able to build connections, friendships and engage with local activities such as the heritage boats in Docklands,” the council said.

Another huge boost to enhance community engagement will be an inclusive and accessible arts and crafts program for adults called “The Cauldron – Craft Connect”.

Initially sponsored by the DSG, and run by Docklands residents, the spokesperson said the program would cater for people of all skill levels, allowing people to “come together, connect, support, share and learn”.

There will also be guest speakers from the crafting world to come and share their craft stories, skills, and knowledge.

“The teaching component will harness the skills and talents of some of our local residents who are keen to knowledge share their particular skill set, be it knitting and crochet, hand quilting and design, card making, recycled toy making, cross stitch and embroidery or other specialist crafts,” the spokesperson said.

“The program is keen to hear from any residents who would like to ‘knowledge share’ or teach in any crafting capacity, as well as hear from residents who would like to learn a specific craft – this input will help shape the program to suit community needs.”

A gold coin donation is requested of social crafting attendees. For more information visit [email protected]

And in a wider push to engage Docklands’ youth, a fourth program see the launch of a “D-Zone” featuring a series of technology and performing arts activities aimed at fostering innovation, leadership, and community connection.

The program will run weekly at various venues including the Saras.Care office and at the Library at the Dock. According to council, it is planned to ensure a balanced approach to skill development, creative expression, and community building.

Lord Mayor Sally Capp said the council would continue to invest in the Docklands community, “empowering residents to deliver the events and activations that matter to them”.

“From neighbourhood social events to the Docklands Farmers Market, we’ve worked closely with the DSG to fund events residents have been calling for, and we look forward to seeing them come to life,” she said. “The establishment of a new resident group, Docklands 3008, will help us deliver services, events and support which we know the Docklands community truly need.” 

The DSG, which is being funded by the council, had its inaugural meeting last July and is made up of representatives from different parts of the community, including Docklands Primary School, resident groups, and small businesses.

Information will be shared via the online Docklands Neighbourhood Portal, as well as through the council’s neighbourhood partner for Docklands Fadi Qunqar.

Caption: Staff at Saras.Care office in Docklands are excitement about the launch of a Dockland youth activation program. Photo: Hanna Komissarova.