From a kids’ kitchen science workshop to ‘60s-inspired tunes at Hawthorn Arts Centre, a special Lido film screening, and a fresh batch of exhibitions at Town Hall Gallery, there’s plenty going on in Boroondara.
For a searchable listing of hundreds of events in the City of Boroondara, visit our Events page.
From books to beakers at Boroondara libraries
This August we’re observing both Children’s Book Week and National Science Week at our libraries, with exciting events for young scientists and readers alike. The 2023 theme for Children’s Book Week (19 to 25 August) is ‘Read, Grow, Inspire’, and we invite you to dress up as your favourite book character and join us for special storytime sessions at our libraries.
During National Science Week (12 to 20 August) join us for STEAM-themed storytimes where little learners will experiment with science, technology, engineering, arts and maths through stories, songs and hands-on activities. We’re also hosting a Kitchen Science workshop where you can create an erupting volcano and build a lava lamp.
Find out more on our Library events page.
Spotlight on homelessness
To help mark National Homelessness Week (7 to 13 August) and shine a light on the growing number of women over 50 who experience homelessness, you’re invited to a special film event and panel discussion at Lido Cinema on Wednesday 9 August at 6 pm. It will include a screening of Under Cover: The hidden faces of homelessness, following 10 women from a range of backgrounds who share their stories.
For more about this free event, and to book tickets, visit Under Cover: The Hidden Faces of Homelessness – documentary screening.
If you are experiencing or at risk of homelessness or know someone who needs support, contact Council’s Safer Communities Planner (Homelessness) at [email protected] or on (03) 9278 4326.
To access resources and support services, information about emergency relief and donation opportunities, visit our Housing and homelessness page.
Seniors Film Festival returns
The Boroondara Seniors Film Festival will be back by popular demand this October, as part of a series of events celebrating older people during the Boroondara Seniors Festival. Special movie screenings are being organised for seniors across our iconic cinemas, and ahead of these, older Boroondara residents are also invited to submit their own short films for the chance to have these shown to the public.
Find full Seniors Film Festival details, including event information and short-film submission requirements, at 2023 Boroondara Seniors Film Festival workshop series.
What’s happening at Boroondara Arts
Roll up for a Friday evening of original music inspired by tropical jungles and 1960s chic with TEK TEK Ensemble (pictured above) at Hawthorn Arts Centre, or take in local artists Grand Baxter and Duxie Franklin, jazz legend Bob Sedergreen and Friends, or The Experience’s unique infusion of spiritual and Afro-jazz. And don’t forget our Boroondara Eisteddfod marquee events – the Festival of Finals on 19 and 20 August, and Gala Finals Concert on 20 August.
Cosy up indoors this winter at Town Hall Gallery, where a new set of exhibitions awaits. Cyrus Tang’s The Memory Palace features highlights of his 20-year practice examining sentiments of nostalgia within memory and fantasy, reconstructing ephemeral mental images and sensations in permanent materials. Dustin Voggenreiter explores his lineage in the bold and textural community exhibition Questionable Ancestry Club. And see your municipality through new eyes at the Celebrate Boroondara exhibition, featuring the winners of the 2023 Boroondara Photograph Competition.
For more about these events, visit our Boroondara Arts page.
Neighbourhood house classes and workshops
This month you can try your hand at belly dancing, life drawing, or practise your French, Italian or Spanish conversation skills with others. Read about these classes and many more below, or find your local centre at our Community and Neighbourhood Houses page.
English and literacy classes
New students are welcome to join any time.
When: Every term on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays
Where: Alamein Neighbourhood and Learning
Cost: Contact us for details
Contact: (03) 9885 9401
Scrabble Club
Play Scrabble in a warm, friendly and non-competitive environment. All levels welcome. Players are matched with similar-standard players.
When: July 11 and July 25, 2 pm to 3:30 pm
Where: Ashburton Community Centre
Cost: $5 per session for members
Contact: (03) 9885 7952
Life drawing class
Learn the basic skills to draw the human body with confidence.
When: Tuesdays 10 am to 12 pm
Where: Balwyn Community Centre
Cost: Pro rata fee
Contact: (03) 9836 7942
Language conversation
Converse with others in French, Italian or Spanish.
When: Thursdays during term at various times
Where: Bowen Street Community Centre
Cost: $20 (10 sessions)
Contact: (03) 9889 0791
Friday open studio
Paint and share inspiration with the ‘Friday Painters’ in a self-guided class with no tutor. All welcome.
When: Fridays from 16 July, 9:30 am to 12 pm
Where: Camberwell Community Centre
Cost: $110 (8 weeks)
Contact: (03) 9882 2611
Native floral mosaics
Discover the magic of mosaics while making your own floral decorative tile.
When: Saturday 22 July, 10 am to 1 pm
Where: Canterbury Neighbourhood Centre
Cost: $85
Contact: (03) 9830 4214
Homework club
Free study help for local primary and secondary students needing support in literacy and numeracy.
When: Wednesdays 4 pm to 5:30 pm
Where: Craig Family Centre
Cost: Free with membership
Contact: (03) 9885 7789
Art for All
A relaxed and inclusive art class – bring your own project or learn new forms of creative expression.
When: Thursdays 11 am to 1 pm
Where: Hawthorn Community House
Cost: $200 (10 weeks)
Contact: (03) 9819 2629
Fit For You
Small group exercise class that raises your heart rate and builds strength. All levels of fitness welcome.
When: Mondays and Wednesdays 8:30 am to 9:30 am
Where: Kew Neighbourhood Learning Centre
Cost: $185 (10 weeks)
Contact: (03) 9853 3126
Thursday yoga
Enjoy the nourishing benefits of Hatha yoga – all experience levels welcome.
When: Thursdays 9:30 am to 10:30 am
Where: Surrey Hills Neighbourhood Centre
Cost: $180 (10 weeks)
Contact: (03) 9890 2467
Belly dance class
A fun, low-impact dance workout for all ages and fitness levels. Come and try a free session.
When: Thursdays 2 pm to 3 pm
Where: Trentwood at the Hub
Cost: $175 (10 sessions)
Contact: (03) 9006 6590
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