Bell ringers, basket weavers and volunteer sports coaches are among the community champions who make living in the City of Melbourne extra special.
On any given day, amazing things are happening in neighbourhoods across the municipality, from historic Carlton to the glistening harbour at Docklands.
Here are just a few of them:
1. Weave a basket in Carlton
Learn and share the traditional art of handmade basket weaving alongside Ethiopian refugees from the Harari Carlton Women’s Group at Carlton Neighbourhood Centre.
2. Hear the bells in West Melbourne
Listen for the peel of historic bells from St James’ Old Cathedral in West Melbourne. Passionate bell-ringers come together every week for friendship with a side of music, culture and physics.
3. Feel welcome in East Melbourne
Step into yesteryear at the milk-bar style East Melbourne General Store. Owner Lisette is carrying on its decades-long reputation as a one-stop-shop, topped off with “old-school” community kindness.
4. Kick a ball in Docklands
Head to Ron Barassi Senior Park to be part of the Docklands Sports Club. Launched by a local mum and supported by professional sports clubs, the volunteer-run program is going from strength to strength.
5. Play board games in Southbank
Join a games night or plan a community event with Southbank3006. This well-connected group helps facilitate community togetherness and runs forums to raise awareness about local issues.

How to keep in touch with your neighbourhood
The City of Melbourne is a dynamic place made up of unique neighbourhoods – Carlton, Parkville, East Melbourne, West Melbourne, North Melbourne, Kensington, Docklands, South Yarra, Southbank and the CBD.
Each neighbourhood has its own needs, services and priorities, and we’re focused on listening to community voices to help us make every area of the municipality the best it can be.
Our new neighbourhood portals are your one-stop shop for information that shapes how you live, work, study and play. They showcase the priorities for each neighbourhood and provide updates on work underway.
Seven passionate neighbourhood partners are also on hand to hear your feedback and ‘connect the dots’ between council, residents and businesses to empower local people, build community capacity and guide city projects.
To learn more, visit the Neighbourhood Portals.