Reflections of 2023

A smile … knowing collectively the East Melbourne Group (EMG) has achieved so much for the East Melbourne community.

Bringing members together with a myriad of events; trivia night, community safety forum, sausage sizzle, gala dinner, and a community picnic in the beautiful gardens of Bishopscourt last Saturday.

Seeing the construction of the exercise equipment in Powlett Reserve and knowing we played a pivotal role in this initiative. Enjoying access to some of the most beautiful gardens, right on our doorsteps, and knowing we have a dedicated team working to keep an eye on them.  

Co-operation with the other community groups – East Melbourne Historical Society and East Melbourne Neighbour Network.

A genuine sense of hope that our 10-year battle to mitigate aircraft noise in our suburb is getting some real traction.

Some ongoing frustrations – having to fight inappropriate development applications has continued to consume much time and resources. Thankfully, we have had some success, tempering the excesses at the former Magnolia Court Hotel site in Powlett St and defeating the proposal at 96 Wellington Parade.

Disappointingly we are going to head back to VCAT for a second time, to again fight another oversized proposal at 204-208 Albert St. And, speaking of Albert St, the accommodating of vulnerable people in residential hotels without appropriate wraparound services has continued to see a stream of police attendances at these venues and contributed to safety concerns of residents.

Thanks to the EMG committee, convenors, members, volunteers for all the time you have dedicated to the community this year.

And, still more to come with a free community sausage sizzle at the East Melbourne Library on Saturday, December 2 at 11am.

May 2024 be one filled with much happiness, good health and good cheer for all our fellow residents, businesses and visitors to Melbourne’s most liveable suburb. •