Cr Kim Ross. Casuarina Ward, City of Casey.

07/09/2026

03/09/2026

Do you have an idea that could bring people together in our community?

Council's new Local Connection Activities Grant offers up to $1,500 to help community groups deliver small events, programs, celebrations and activities that create new connections and strengthen community spirit across Casey.

Applications are open year-round and are assessed quickly. The program is supported by a $50,000 annual funding pool and aims to help build a more connected, welcoming and inclusive community.

Whether you're looking to:

✅ Welcome new community members
✅ Connect with another local group
✅ Encourage new people to get involved
✅ Build stronger local relationships

I'd encourage you to find out more and apply.

29/08/2026

Where are your daily points of connection? Over time have your regular ones disappeared?

Loneliness is an identified epidemic and bad for your health

So what can I do? What is Council’s role! How can we help?

I’d love to hear your ideas and your story.

You can comment, send me an email, or book a time to meet up.

28/08/2026

It’s setting up time for The Corner Market in between Bunjil Place and Westfield Fountain Gate.

Once upon a while ago I ‘did’ a few markets and it’s not for the faint of heart.

It’s their first time in this new spot. Come down and show them some love 💜.

28/08/2026

We extend our deepest sympathies to the communities affected by the tragic Nepal- China floods this week. We stand with all of those who are grieving or experiencing distress at this time.

If you or someone you know needs support, there is help available:

Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636
Lifeline: 13 11 14 or chat online
Kids Helpline: 1800 551 800 or chat online


Australians wishing to donate should visit the Emergency Action Alliance webpage: https://emergencyaction.org.au

27/08/2026

Yesterday started with a gym session, included Afternoons with Brigitte Duclos from ABC Melbourne 774 and finished with starting planning for the 27/28 Budget.

Highlights of yesterday included listening to Casey Choirs Casey Choir and Cranbourne Chorale at Bunjil Place, accompanied by a pianist on one of Bunjil's piano. More please 🩷🩷🩷. Both choirs are open to new members.

And meeting three of the comedians behind the upcoming Brown Comedy: Up and Comers Showcase coming to Bunjil on the 12th September, including host Annie Louey. Tickets are still available and start from $15 for a group of 6.

It was wonderful to be able to showcase some of the creative people we have in Casey on State Radio and to experience the energy and enthusiasm that is the essence of why arts matter.

Today is TGIF with Charlie Pickering, and at last look there were still some tickets available. I'll be there, and I know Mayor, Cr Michelle Crowther is also attending.

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But first I start the day with a walk and clients in my private practice before heading back to Bunjil for the almost last day of the Sari exhibit which finished on (so if you haven't seen it yet, you are running out of time, it finishes Sunday!).

24/08/2026

The ABC Melbourne broadcast events at Bunjil Place have begun.

If you are around at 10.30 come down and Have Your Say, and then at 11-12 the focus is on Growth Areas.

See you there.

22/08/2026

It’s a big week next week!

Are you going to come along and listen or share your story at the library?

774 ABC Melbourne is coming to Bunjil Place in Narre Warren. If you want to meet some of your favourite presenters, come and say hi while we broadcast live from Bunjil Place.

18/08/2026

This is inside Bunjil Place where we hold our Citizenship Ceremonies and host an awesome range of events.

Pictured here are members of the National Growth Areas Alliance doing a behind the scenes tour as part of the NGAA Congress 2026.

(I'm performing a bit of a balancing act here as I'm trying to hide my water bottle behind my back whilst participating in the 'high' kick action shot...)

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Arts, culture and creativity impact health, connection and community resilience.

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From facilitating emotional expression, increasing understanding of history and culture, and providing moments of awe - there is an art or creative form and experience for everyone.

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Arts includes watching, attending performing or contributing to: theatre, movies, museums, gallery, photography, writing, dance, painting, drawing, pottery, music and so much more.

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Art can thrive on limited resources and maximum imagination and inspiration, however, resources help.

The NGAA Congress highlighted inequities in the funding model (as well as sharing ideas for addressing this).

Currently Growth Areas have to fight for their share of the Creative Arts Budget.

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A statistic to contemplate
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22% of Australians live in growth areas. They receive 5% of Creative Australia grant funding. 78% goes to Inner Metro.

I would also love to know what type of Arts and Creative Activity you would love to see in our community. You can comment below or email at [email protected].