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Social connection, physical activity and involvement in community and group
activities are key determinants of both mental and physical health.
Planned Activity Groups and community groups are ways that people within the
community, particularly those with diverse needs, can be supported to maintain
active involvement in the community and maintain social connections with others.
These groups also play a vital role in developing the skills of people with diverse
needs to assist with living at home.
The aim of this guide is to provide support for Planned Activity Group and
community group coordinators in Melbourne‘s west to plan and organise activities
which are appropriate for participants with a diverse range of needs.
HealthWest Partnership and ISIS Primary Care have developed this guide through
consultation with a range of Planned Activity Group and community group
coordinators across the West.
This guide recognises that Planned Activity Groups and community groups often
have small budgets for their activities. This guide aims to support group
coordinators by show casing the interesting and innovative activity ideas that many
individual group coordinators have developed, as well as providing other ideas for
cost-effective outings and in-house activities.
HealthWest Partnership and ISIS Primary Care hope that this guide can be a useful
resource and support group coordinators to continue the great work that is already
occurring across the Western suburbs.
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This guide aims to support Planned Activity Group and community group
coordinators in providing cost-effective and innovative activities that meet the
diverse needs of people who attend planned activity and community groups.
This guide is intended to be used as a starting point for planning activities and
provides a select range of restaurants, venues, outings and activities which may be
appropriate to Planned Activity Groups and community groups. The full variety of
venues, outing and activities across the west and across Victoria is too large to
include within this guide. Group coordinators are encouraged to build on the ideas
list in this guide and investigate all of what the west and Victoria has to offer. To
support this, the guide has been printed and displayed in a ring-binder which allows
the guide to be tailored to individual needs.
It should be noted that although ISIS Primary Care and HealthWest Partnership
have taken all efforts to check the information provided in the guide, prices, services
and facilities often change. Group coordinators are encouraged to contact the
business listed in this guide prior to undertaking an activity to ensure that the
needs of group attendees can be catered for.
Key
Disability accessible $10 or under per person
Accessible via public transport
Parking available Over $10 per person
(Group prices averaged over group size of 15)
(Group prices averaged over group size of 15)
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Do you have something to add to this guide? If you know of a venue or activity you would
like to share with others we‘d like to hear about it! You can also use this form to provide
feedback on your experience with an activity already in this guide. Please fill out and re-
turn this form.
Venue/ Activity Name:
Address (if appropriate):
Contact details:
Description of the venue or activity (i.e. restaurant) and why you would like to recommend it to
others:
Fax:
Health Promotion
Coordinator
ISIS Primary Care
9360 7534
Recommend an activity
Mail:
Health Promotion
Coordinator
ISIS Primary Care
Hobsons Bay Campus
Email:
administration @healthwest.org.au
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Contents
Outings & Excursions…………………………………………………….5
Museums 6
Galleries 9
Historical Sites 10
Cafes and Restaurants 13
Parks and Gardens 21
Other Places 24
Get to know regional Victoria 27
Over Night 31
In-house Activities………………………………………………………...33
Entertainment 34
Guest Speakers—Health/ Living 36
Guest Speakers—General/ Special Interest 40
Other Activities 42
Do-It-Yourself Activity Ideas 42
Tips for organising your activities……………..……………….……...45
Community Bus hire 46
Public Transport 47
Catering for your group– a few healthy suggestions 49
Libraries in the West 50
Events in the West 51
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Museums
Melbourne’s Living Museum of the West
A community museum which actively involves
the people of Melbourne's west and others in
documenting, preserving and interpreting the
richness and depth of the region's social industri-
al and environmental history.
Group historic talks are available at the museum
or museum staff available to come out to groups,
starting from $50 for a half hour session. Book-
ings essential.
Cost: Free
Address: Within Pipemakers park, Van Ness
Avenue, Maribyrnong
Contact: 9318 3544 www.livingmuseum.org.au
Other: See the ―Parks and Gardens‖ section
within this guide for more information on Pipe-
makers Park.
Immigration Museum
Located in the Old Customs House in the heart of the city, the museum re-creates the real-life stories of coming to Australia with a rich mix of moving images, personal and community voices, memories and memorabilia. Cafe on site. Call ahead for group bookings.
Cost: Adults $8, free entry for concession, chil-
dren and carers. Additional charges may apply
for temporary exhibitions.
Address: Old Customs House 400 Flinders St,
Melbourne
Contact: 13 11 02
www.museumvictoria.com.au/
immigrationmuseum
National Sports Museum (at the MCG)
Located across two levels of the Olympic Stand,
visitors to the National Sports Museum can im-
merse themselves in some of the finest sports-
related artifacts and interactive technology wit-
nessed anywhere in the world.
There are numerous exhibition spaces covering
a complete history of Australian sport. The mu-
seum caters for all mobility requirements and
includes ramps and escalator access. It is rec-
ommended to allow a minimum of 90 minutes to
fully experience the museum.
The National Sports Museum also brings re-
newed energy to the MCG‘s traditional role as
the spiritual home of Australian sport, establish-
ing a gateway to the stadium‘s renowned herit-
age and facilities within a new, modern muse-
ums and entertainment precinct, is designed for
use by the public, tourists and Melbourne Cricket
Club members alike.
Guided tours available for groups, or they may
go through self guided. Enquire about combining
with a Tour of the MCG, with or without lunch
provided.
Cost: Concession $11 admission per person
(please enquire for tour prices)
Address: Jolimont St, East Melbourne
Contact: 9657 8879 www.nsm.org.au
7
Scienceworks and Planetarium
Located in Spotswood, the museum presents
science and technology in unexpected and in-
volving ways. Hands-on participation is positively
encouraged and visitors can take part in live
demonstrations, shows, guided tours and special
activities. There is also a program of changing
exhibitions. Cafe on site.
Cost: Adults $8, Concession and children entry
Free. Extra for shows and temporary exhibitions.
Address: 2 Booker St, Spotswood, Victoria,
3015.
Contact:
www.museumvictoria.com.au/scienceworks
For group bookings call 9392 4819
Other: Accessible curb side parking available for
buses on Booker St. Other off street parking
available with accessible spaces.
Melbourne Museum
Melbourne Museum explores life in Victoria, from our natural environment to our culture and history.
Please enquire through the bookings office to
make a reservation for bus parking. Disabled
parking spaces are available on level P2 of the
carpark. Call ahead for group bookings. Café on
site.
Cost: Adults $8, free entry for concession, chil-
dren and carers. Day parking rates are a maxi-
mum of $16.
Address: 11 Nicholson St Carlton, Victoria,
3053
Contact: 13 11 02
www.museumvictoria.com.au/
melbournemuseum
State Library of Victoria
The State Library of Victoria has a range of activ-
ities every month, ranging from heritage tours of
the iconic building, to book and art exhibitions, to
films and talks on a range of topics. Check web-
site regularly for latest exhibitions.
Costs: Mostly Free
Address: 328 Swanston St, Melbourne
Contact: 8664 7000 and www.slv.vic.gov.au
Royal Historical Society of Victoria
(Library)
The RHSV is the most extensive single infor-
mation resource on the history of Melbourne and
Victoria. It holds one of the oldest and most ex-
tensive collections of historical manuscripts and
images in the State.
Cost: $5.50 per person for introductory tours
(with morning/afternoon tea), $4 per person for
temporary exhibitions
Address: 239 A‘Beckett Street, Melbourne VIC
3000
Contact: 9326 9288 www.historyvictoria.org.au
Other: Disability accessible for most parts,
please enquire with venue to make appropriate
arrangements.
8
Williamstown Historical Society Museum
The collection highlights this historical seaport‘s
maritime history, and also includes furniture, cos-
tumes, sporting memorabilia, paintings, photo-
graphs and a wide range of social history exhib-
its that illustrate life in Williamstown from the
1840s. Open Sundays 2pm-5pm and other times
for groups by appointment.
Cost: $5 entry per person
Address: 5 Electra Street, Williamstown
Contact: (03) 9397 5423 or (03) 9397 5260 or
www.williamstownhistsoc.org.au
Other: Not disability accessible as there is an
upstairs level, though toilets are situated on the
bottom level for those who do not wish to travel
up stairs. Ample parking available in nearby
streets.
Victoria Police Museum
The Victoria Police Museum is home to a darker
side of Victorian history. With tales of colourful
criminals and the gallant work of police in risky
situations, the museum offers a unique view into
the execution of Victorian crimes and the after-
math of disasters. Victoria Police Museum pre-
sents visitors with an intriguing insight into the
social history of policing in Victoria.
Groups (10+ people) may book either a self-
guided visit or a visit which includes an introduc-
tion to the collection and current exhibitions.
Cafe onsite.
Cost: Free
Address: First Floor (Lower Concourse)
World Trade Centre
637 Flinders Street Melbourne
Contact: 9247 5304 or 9247 5214
www.police.vic.gov.au
Other: Bus access for visitor drop-off and collec-
tion is via Siddley Street. The closest parking for
buses is at the rear of the Melbourne Exhibition
Centre on the opposite side of the Yarra River.
George Evans Museum
Sunbury‘s George Evans Museum houses a large collection of photographs dating from the time of white settlement in the area, and various artifacts revealing the history of the area, includ-ing the festivals for which Sunbury has become famous.
Community groups are encouraged to enquire
about the use of the temporary exhibition space
to mount an exhibition of interest. Open only dur-
ing the opening hours of the library.
Cost: Free Address: 36 Macedon Street, Sunbury (enter through Sunbury Library) Contact: 9740 5497 (Wednesdays only)
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Galleries
Wyndham Cultural Centre Art Gallery
Wyndham Art Gallery presents a curated pro-
gram of fresh contemporary art alongside the
best local content. Check the website for the
latest exhibitions and events.
Cost: Free
Address: 177 Watton Avenue, Werribee
Contact: 9742 0910 www.wyncc.com.au
Hunt Club Community Arts Centre
The Hunt Club Community Arts Centre provides
two gallery spaces for visual artists plus a range
of spaces for meetings, classes and workshops.
Five artist-in-residence studios plus a pottery
studio are also provided at the Centre.
Costs: Free
Address: 775 Ballarat Rd, Deer Park
Contact:9361 6600
www.brimbank.gov.au/arts
National Gallery of Victoria
A rich treasury of visual arts, with over 500 works
from the permanent collection featuring art by
Australian and international artists. Guided tours
available for $6 per head as well as visual de-
scribed tours for visually impaired visitors.
Cost: Mostly free (entry fee for some exhibi-
tions), guided tours $6 per person.
Address: Federation Square, Melbourne CBD
(Ian Potter Centre) or 180 St Kilda Rd,
Melbourne CBD (NGV International)
Contact: 8620 2222 www.ngv.vic.gov.au
Australian Centre for Contemporary Art
The Australian Centre for Contemporary Art is
Melbourne‘s leading contemporary art gallery
presenting the most challenging, innovative and
creative visual art of our time.
Designed by Melbourne based architects, Wood
Marsh, ACCA‘s distinctive steel building is in the
heart of Melbourne‘s arts precinct in Southbank.
The landmark rust-red structure is one of Mel-
bourne‘s architectural icons. Café located on
site.
Cost: Admission is free
Address: 111 Sturt Street, Southbank
Contact: 9697 9999 www.accaonline.org.au
Other: Limited metered parking available in
nearby streets.
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RAAF Museum Point Cook
Housed at Point Cook, the birthplace of the Aus-
tralian Flying Corps and the Royal Australian Air
Force, the RAAF Museum tells one of Australia's
most important aviation stories, that of the
second oldest air force in the world.
Cost: Free or gold coin donation
Address: RAAF Base Williams, Point Cook
Road, Point Cook
Contact: 8348 6300
www.airforce.gov.au/raafmuseum
The Point Cook Homestead
In 1839 a Scotsman named Thomas Chirnside
arrived in Australia and he and his brother, An-
drew, went on to build a hugely successful pas-
toral empire. In 1852, Thomas bought land in
Point Cook and commenced construction of the
elegant bluestone Point Cook Homestead. Guid-
ed tours of the Homestead may be followed by a
picnic lunch on the grounds or lunch and devon-
shire tea in the rustic old café.
Cost: $5.50 per person for tour only- 2 course
lunch add $15.50 per person
Address: 1 Point Cook Homestead Rd, Point
Cook 3030
Contact: 9395 1213
www.pointcookhomestead.com
Historical sites
Cook’s Cottage (within Fitzroy Gardens)
Combining modern interpretations of Captain
Cook‘s life and adventures with centuries old
relics and a vibrant, colourful English cottage
garden, Cooks‘ Cottage provides a unique in-
sight into English family life in the 18th century.
Cost:
Self-guided tours
Adults $3, Concession $2
Cook’s Cottage-A Melbourne Icon Tour
30 minute guided tour $6 per person
Fitzroy Gardens Heritage tour
One hour tour $8 per person
Tours can be tailored to groups needs. Minimum
group size is 8. General senior/concession ad-
mission $2.70, or adults $4.50.
Address: Cooks' Cottage, Fitzroy Gardens,
Wellington Parade, East Melbourne.
Contact: 9419 5766 or
www.cookscottage.com.au
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Altona Homestead
Construction of Altona Homestead commenced
in 1842 on an area of land now known as the
R.J. Logan Reserve for Alfred and Sarah Lang-
horne, the first settlers of Altona. In 1851 this
homestead was built using bluestone for the
walls after bush fires went through the area.
Group bookings by appointment.
Cost: $2 per person
Address: 128 Queen Street Altona (situated on
Logan Reserve)
Contact: 0419 370 935 www.visitaltona.com.au/
homestead.html
Other: Open Tuesdays 11am-2pm Sat 10am-
12noon and the 1st Sunday of the month 2-4pm.
Open for groups other times by arrangement.
HMAS Castlemaine
Berthed at Williamstown and open for public in-
spection allows visitors to explore an original
World War II warship. Surrounded by cafes and
rich heritage sites. Group tours can be organised
for a day or time of the week outside our regular
opening hours. To organise a group booking and
price, email or call ahead.
Cost: Regular admission $6pp, group booking
prices may vary.
Address: Gem Pier in the heart of Williamstown,
near the visitor information centre in the Com-
monwealth Reserve on Nelson Place.
Contact: www.hmascastlemaine.org.au
[email protected] or 9397 2363
Other: Call ahead to discuss requirements for
those with limited mobility. Wheelchair access is
difficult though staff strive to assist all visitors in
every way. Parking available in nearby streets.
Melbourne Shrine of Remembrance
In remembrance of those who served and those
who died in the Great War of 1914-1918 and
armed conflicts and peacekeeping duties since.
The Shrine of Remembrance is Victoria‘s largest
and most visited war memorial and is probably
Melbourne‘s most recognised landmark. Free
guided tours for groups are available if booked in
advance.
Cost: Free
Address: St Kilda Rd, 1.3km south of Flinders
St Station
Contact: www.shrine.org.au
[email protected] 9661 8100 for general
enquiries or 9654 8415 for group bookings.
Other: Cafes nearby, very limited parking availa-
ble down Birswood Avenue.
Rupertswood Mansion & Tea Rooms
Built as a residence for Sir William John Clarke
in 1874-76 it became a power seat in the great
English tradition. A 50 room mansion built in the
Italianate style, surmounted by a 100 foot tower.
Guided tours available with or without morning
tea or lunch (min 10 guests). Alternatively you
may guide yourself through the mansion. Special
events include Morning Music.
Cost: Self guided $5 per person, Guided tour
only $13 per person, enquire for price including
food. No charge for bus driver.
Address: 3 Macedon Street, Sunbury
Contact: 9740 5020 www.rupertswood.com
Other: See ―Cafés and Restaurants‖ section
within this guide for information on The Gate-
house restaurant located on-site.
12
Eynesbury Homestead and Café
The Homestead is open free to be public for
viewing, and the lounge is available with ample
seating for relaxation. There are gravel walking
paths through the surrounding area and the Na-
tional Trust Heritage Forest can be driven
through.
Eynesbury Cafe is open every day for lunch in
the magnificent Homestead, see ―Cafés and
Restaurants‖ section in this guide for more infor-
mation.
Cost: Homestead entry Free, Lunch mains start
from $13.50 (The menu and price may be tai-
lored to suit the group)
Address: Eynesbury Road, Eynesbury Victoria
3338
Contact: 9971 0402
www.eynesbury.miclub.com.au
Other: Disability accessible toilets though there
is one small step at the venue. Ample parking
and bus parking available. Bus may drive up to
the café entrance if arranged prior.
Werribee Mansion Werribee Mansion was completed by wealthy
pastoralists, the Chirnside family in 1877. Built in
the Italianate architecture style, Werribee Man-
sion boasts 60 rooms in several wings. Following
extensive restoration, many of the Chirnside fam-
ily‘s items, including clothing, furniture remain on
display.
Located within Werribee Park Gardens and adja-
cent to the Victorian State Rose Garden. Café
located within the Mansion.
Cost: Concession $5 Adults $7
Guided tours and audio guides are available at
an additional cost.
Contact: Parks Victoria 13 1963
Other: Bus parking available.
(See ―Parks and Gardens‖ within this guide for
more information on Werribee Park gardens and
Victoria State Rose Garden).
13
Cafés and Restaurants
Toscanini’s European Café & Gelato Bar
Soups, sandwiches and other main meals. Large
group bookings welcome, please call ahead.
Cost: Sandwiches average $9, other mains aver-
age $15
Address: Shop 32 Caroline Springs Shopping
Centre, Lake St, Caroline Springs
Contact: 8390 5447
Derrimut
Sunshine Golf Club
Derrimut Skyes Restaurant at Sunshine Golf
Club provides a relaxing dining experience with
panoramic views of the city skyline and a stun-
ningly designed golf course.
Derrimut Skyes can cater for your dining require-
ments. Bookings appreciated. Lunch Wednesday
to Friday 12pm-2pm.
Cost: Express lunches $10
Address: 475 Mt Derrimut Rd, Derrimut
Contact: 9363 1691
www.sunshinegolfclub.com.au
CoCoChine Restaurant CoCoChine Restaurant offers a range of South East Asian favourites with a touch of Australia at great prices. Cost: Soups from $6.50, lunch mains from $10 Address: Shop 21, Caroline Springs Shopping Square Lake St, Caroline Springs Contact: 8390 2188
Caroline Springs
Slices Family Restaurant
Slices extensive menu draws from a number of
different backgrounds. We cook, steak, chicken,
pasta, pizza, pancakes, seafood and more.
Groups please book ahead. Group catering also
available.
Cost: Most lunch mains between $12 and $20
Address: 2 Lake Street, Carline Springs (across
from shopping centre)
Contact: 8390 2200 www.slices.com.au
Bakers Boutique & Patisserie
Small bakery café who can accomodate group
bookings of up to 25 people with minimum two
days notice. Happy to arrange sharing platters or
bulk orders at a discounted price per person.
Sandwiches, hot pies and pastries, cakes and
sweets, hot coffee/ tea.
Cost: Sandwiches start at $4 each when
ordered from the menu.
Address: 24 Westwood Dr, Deer Park
Contact: 8361 7188
Other: On the exterior of the shopping centre,
toilets available within the shopping centre only.
Deer Park
14
Hoppers Crossing
Eynesbury
Eynesbury Homestead and Cafe
Eynesbury Cafe is open every day for lunch in
the magnificent Homestead. The menu is
designed to offer great value, with many options
from all day breakfasts, light snacks as well as
more substantial meals.
See ―Historical Sites‖ section within this guide for
more information on the Homestead.
Cost: Homestead entry Free, lunch mains start
from $13.50 (The menu and price may be tai-
lored to suit the group)
Address: Eynesbury Road, Eynesbury Victoria
3338
Contact: 9971 0402
www.eynesbury.miclub.com.au
Other: Disability accessible toilets though there
is one small step at the venue. Ample parking
and bus parking available. Bus may drive up to
the café entrance if arranged prior.
Happy River Cafe
Situated next to the Footscray Community Arts
Centre, Happy River Café offers a deliciously
fresh menu, including coffee and wraps,
spanakopita, luscious cakes and biscuits.
Cost: Between $10-$20 for a main
Address: 45 Moreland Rd, Footscray
Contact: 9689 3244 or www.footscrayarts.com/
venue/happyrivercafe
Footscray
Lentil as Anything Lentil as Anything serves buffet-style all vegetari-
an breakfast, lunch and dinner.
The pay as you feel philosophy is simple – we
invite you to pay what you think the food and the
experience is worth – and invite you to also do-
nate towards a philosophy that places human
dignity above profit. All donations and payments
are made into an anonymous box.
It is located at the old Barkly Hotel and boasts
plenty of seating and a vibrant blend of multicul-
tural cuisine.
Cost: Pay as much (or as little) as you like
Address: 233 Barkly St, Footscray; also at 41
Blessington St, St Kilda
Contact: 0424 081 652 (Footscray)
www.lentilasanything.com
DiCaprio Restaurant
DiCaprio Restaurant has a comfortable layout
and the flexibility to cater to all ages and prefer-
ences. Its modern menu is inspired by flavours
from all over the world, including Italy, France,
Asia and the Middle East.
Cost: small pizzas from $8
Address: 88 Derrimut Rd, Hoppers Crossing
Contact: 9748 2888 or www.dicaprio.com.au
15
Gabriella’s
A large range of breakfast and lunch items at
great prices.
Cost: Meals between $10-$20
Address: 10/158 Sunshine Ave, Kealba (corner
Stenson Rd and Sunshine Ave)
Contact: 9364 5552 www.gabriellas.com.au
Kealba
Melton Valley Golf Club
Melton Valley offers excellent dining in our club-
house Bistro. The Lunch Menu has daily spe-
cials. Please enquire to arrange for disability ac-
cess.
Cost: All lunch items are $10.50
Address: 156-200 Melton Valley Drive
Contact: 9747 6555 www.meltongolf.com.au
Melton
La Headquarters Cafe
Café with reasonably priced meals including
focaccias and ample seating available for group
bookings.
Cost: Mains between $11-$18.50
Address: 318-320, High St Melton
Contact: 9747 6188
Ruby’s Pizza and Pasta Restaurant
One of Melton‘s busiest dinning venues, special-
ising in Mediterranean cuisine, including char-
grilled meats, pasta, pizza and seafood.
Open for lunch Wednesday to Friday from 12pm.
Cost: Small pizzas from $10.50, mains between
$15 and $20
Address: Stations Square Shopping Centre,
Corner Station and Brooklyn Rds, Melton South
Contact: 9364 5552
William Angliss Institute Restaurant
William Angliss provides affordable dining for
individual bookings and large functions. With
capacity for over 100 people, it is a great space
and offers affordable prices.
Cost: Mains from $11, set menu from $13
Address: 555 Latrobe St, Melbourne
Contact: 9606 2111,
www.angliss.edu.au/Restaurants
Melbourne
The Tea Room—NGV
The Tea Room at the National Gallery of Victoria
offers a great range of morning teas and light
lunches for under $10. Handmade pastries,
scones and sandwiches available to compliment
your visit to the Gallery.
Cost: morning tea and light lunch under $10
Address: 180 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne
Contact: 8662 1555 or
www.ngv.vic.gov.au/visit/places-to-eat/the-tea-
room
16
Cafe Enigma
Foccacias and quiches. Can cater for group
bookings.
Cost: $10- $12 lunch meals
Address: Sanctuary Lakes Shopping Centre,
300 Point Cook Rd, Point Cook
Contact: 9395 2194
Coffee Club
Cost: Lunches from around $15
Address: 4 Main St, Point Cook
Contact: 9395 4700 www.coffeeclub.com.au
Other: There are no steps, although the nearest
toilets are located across the street. Group book-
ings must call ahead.
CoCoChine Restaurant
It's China, the old and the new. It's Japan and
Malaysia, It's Thailand and Vietnam and a touch
of Australia. It's where you can have yum cha, a
Thai curry or a Laksa Deluxa.
Whether you want a full Asian dinner, or a range
of tasty snacks to keep you going. CocoChine
gives you the options. A comfortable environ-
ment together with excellent service, you will get
a impressive experience.
Cost: Soups start at $6.80, mains from $20
Address: Point Cook Town Centre, 5 Murnong
Street Point Cook
Contact: 9394 8628
www.cocochinerestaurant.com.au
Alamanda Cafe & Providore
Servicing reasonably priced lunch meals daily
from 12noon (Breakfast from 8am-12noon).
Group bookings to call ahead and make reserva-
tions. May be able to tailor an arrangement to
suit group‘s needs.
Cost: Lunch meals start from around $9.
Quiches/ sausages rolls available from $4.50.
Address: Corner of Sneydes Road & Alamanda
Blvd Point Cook (Alamanda estate).
Contact: 8353 1281 www.alamandacafe.com.au
Waterstone Cafe
Waterstone Café is located in the stunning Sanc-
tuary Lakes resort style living estate that features
a Greg Norman designed 18 hole golf course.
Live entertainment available. Groups requested
to book ahead.
Cost: Soups and Pizzas start from $9.50- aver-
age meal price around $15
Address: Greg Norman Drive, Sanctuary Lakes
Contact: 9395 7800
www.waterstonecafe.com.au
Point Cook
17
Galli Estate Winery Restaurant Galli Estate Winery Restaurant is open for lunch
and dinner from Wednesday to Sunday.
Gailli Estate offers a range of dining options in-
cluding a la carte and light lunches in a relaxing
vineyard atmosphere.
Cost: $12.90 lunch menu Address: 1507 Melton Highway, Plumpton Contact: 9747 1433 www.galliestate.com.au
Plumpton
The Granary Cafe
Located within the spectacular heritage listed
Sunshine‘s Harvester Centre, The Granary Cafe
offers a charming environment to enjoy a fantas-
tic breakfast, lunch or dinner.
Lunch menu includes gourmet sandwiches,
foccacias, pastas, risotto, and steak sandwiches.
Cost: Under $10 for sandwiches and focaccias
Address: 2 Devonshire Rd, Sunshine
Contact: 9310 1008
www.thegranary.com.au
Sunshine
Vivere Restaurant
Vivere offers an extensive menu consisting of
traditional to contemporary Italian cuisine which
is sure to impress even the most conscientious
of food enthusiasts, we even cater for coeliac
and vegetarians by offering great gluten free
pasta and pizza and freshly home made des-
sert‘s to order. Can tailor a set menu to suit
group needs.
Cost: Small pizzas starting from $8
Address: Point Cook Town Centre Shop 129,
Murrnong Street, Point Cook
Contact: 9395 0520
www.vivererestaurant.com.au
Scrumpy Brown’s at the Point Cook
Homestead
Once an old machinery shed, this rustic-style
cafe offers concession groups a two course
luncheon consisting of either a warming stew or
summery quiche followed by Devonshire tea
(self serve hot drinks included). Bookings essen-
tial. Regular cafe breakfast and lunch menus
also available for group bookings.
Cost: $15.50 per person for pre-booked conces-
sion luncheon
Address: 1 Point Cook Homestead Rd, Point
Cook 3030
Contact: 9395 1213
www.pointcookhomestead.com
Other: See ― Historical Sites‖ section of this
guide for more information on the Homestead
and guided tours.
18
DiCaprio Family Restaurant
With its comfortable layout and the flexibility to
cater to all ages and preferences, DiCaprio is
especially an ideal spot to have a great meal and
leave with a full stomach without causing much
damage to the hip-pocket. A modern menu in-
spired by flavours from all over the world. Includ-
ing Italy, France, Asia and the Middle East.
Cost: Large variety of meals available between
$8- $15
Address: 399 Melton Hwy, Taylors Lakes
(Watergardens Shopping Centre)
Contact: 9449 8466,
www.dicaprio.com.au
Taylors Lakes
The Gatehouse at Rupertswood
Located at the Rupertswood Mansion (See
‗Historical Sites‘ in this guide), the Gatehouse
can tailor a menu to suit your group‘s budget and
taste.
The Gatehouse also presents art exhibitions.
Cost: $10 (Devonshire tea or soup)—$30 (3
course meal)
Address: 1 Macedon Street, Sunbury
Contact: 9740 4099
www.thegatehousesunbury.com.au
Other: 10 minute walk from the nearest train
station.
Sunbury
Slices Family Restaurant
Slices extensive menu draws from a number of
different backgrounds.
We cook, steak, chicken, pasta, pizza, pan-
cakes, seafood and more.
Groups please book ahead. Group catering also
available.
Cost: Most lunch mains between $12 and $20
Address: 920 Old Calder Hwy, Taylors Lakes
Contact: 9390 9933 www.slices.com.au
Foodstar Restaurant (Chinese Buffet)
From mouth watering Seafood, Asian, Carvary,
Dessert, Salads all your favourites are now here
under the one roof at Foodstar.
We're committed to serving you more of the
best, and less of the rest. No matter how hungry
you are our delicious all-you-can-eat buffet
satisfies any appetite!
Cost: All you can eat lunch Mon-Sat seniors
$12.90pp, adults $14.90.
Address: 80 Harvester Road, Sunshine
(Sunshine Market Place)
Contact: 9311 0833
19
Ages Pizza Place
Family owned pizza and pasta restaurant in the
heart of Werribee. Balcony at rear overlooking
the Werribee river. Call ahead for group book-
ings.
Cost: Prices start at $8.40 for a small pizza
Address: 90A Watton Street, Werribee.
Contact: 9731 1444
Other: Short walk from public transport and
plenty of off and on street parking available in
surrounding area.
MiHUB Café within Mambourin Sensory
Gardens
A relaxing alfresco garden lunch or afternoon tea
in an atmosphere that takes all your cares away.
Curries, casseroles and stir fry and lentil dishes
of both the spicy and not-so-spicy varieties. Fish
and chips and other meals can be made to order
via prior arrangement. Group bookings and pre-
orders welcome.
Cost: Free to enter gardens, Main meals start at
$5, coffee and cake $5.
Address: 2 Recreation Close Werribee VIC
3030
Contact: 9731 7877 or 0432 631 456
Other: Bus parking available at rear of venue
upon request. See ―Parks and Gardens‖ section
of this guide for more information on the Mam-
bourin Sensory Gardens.
Werribee
Bridge Hotel
Old fashioned venue serving hearty pub-style
meals at reasonable prices. Caters for groups
and have a seniors lunch menu available upon
request.
Cost: Seniors meals around $10 per person in
the main bar area and $13.50 in the dining room.
Address: 197-199 Watton Street, Werribee
Contact: 9741 3391
Other: Ample parking with room for a bus
around the back of the venue, disability friendly
access from the rear of the venue to be arranged
in advance.
Shining Palace Chinese Restaurant
Since it establishment in 1995, Shining Palace,
we already served good, health and delicious
food for our customers in Wyndham City.
Can accommodate group bookings for lunch up-
on reservation.
Cost: Lunch under $15
Address: 96 Watton Street, Werribee
Contact: 9974 0188 www.shiningpalace.com.au
20
Williamstown
Williamstown Mussels Fish & Chippery
Some seating available within the restaurant,
though a fantastic place to order a meal to take
across the road and eat in the park.
Williamstown Mussels Fish & Chippery is a fully
licensed and BYO seafood restaurant. The interi-
or is brightly decorated and welcoming, and
there is an outdoor garden courtyard. Mussles
provides discounts for seniors.
Cost: Varies
Address: 129 Nelson Place, Williamstown
Contact: 9399 9961
Other: Ticket parking out front, free parking in
nearby streets.
Customs House Hotel
Choose from our Light Meals, Traditional Pub
or A La Carte menu. Seniors two course set
menu also available.
Cost: $18pp for 2 course seniors menu.
Address: 161-163 Nelson Pl, Williamstown
Contact: 9397 8888
www.customshousehotel.com.au
Other: Ticket parking out front, free parking in
nearby streets.
Scolaro’s Restaurant
Family restaurant within the Wyncity Bowl and
Entertainment offering a 2 course seniors lunch
special. Menu can comprise either a soup and
main or main and desert. Mains generally consist
of casseroles and fish ‘n‘ chips.
Bowling specials also available for both seniors
and other groups including those with disabilities.
Bookings are essential. See ―Other Places‖ sec-
tion within this guide for more information.
Cost: 2 course seniors menu (can be adapted to
other group types) $12 per person.
Address: 13 Riverside Avenue, Werribee
Contact: 9741 9777 or www.wyncity.com
Community Lunch—Iramoo Community
Centre
Monthly Community Lunches held on the 4th
Wednesday of the month between February and
November. Pay by donation. Bookings for
groups advised.
Cost: Donation
Address: 84 Honour Avenue, Wyndham Vale
Contact: 8742 3688
Wyndham Vale
21
Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne The picturesque setting of the Royal Botanic
Gardens Melbourne extends over 36 hectares
and displays more than 50,000 plants. Entry into
the gardens is free; open 7.30am to sunset every
day of the year.
Cost: Free
Address: Birdwood Avenue South Yarra VIC
3141
Contact: 9252 2300 www.rbg.vic.gov.au/rbg-
melbourne
Other: Limited parking (including disabled) avail-
able.
Picnics are welcome and there are two cafés
situated on the grounds.
Parks and Gardens
Point Cook Coastal Park
The Point Cook Coastal Park is located 20 km
southwest of Melbourne, it is a popular destina-
tion for birdwatchers, nature lovers and family
groups. The park features abundant bird-life,
intertidal sand banks and a Marine Reserve.
Cost: Free
Address: Entrance on Point Cook Rd and Point
Cook Homestead Rd, Point Cook
Other: Picnic areas available. Pathways are
sealed and there are accessible toilets available.
Altona Beach and Logan Reserve
Altona Beach and Logan Reserve is well ser-
viced by ample car parking and disabled toilets,
and is only just across the road from all the con-
venience of the Pier Street shops and cafes.
The local council do a great job of keeping the
sand clean and rubbish free, as well as free from
any debris. It is truly one of Melbourne's best
kept secrets. Picnics welcome.
Cost: Free
Address: Pier Street Altona
The Melton Botanic Gardens
Guided tours and other activities are available
upon a pre-booked visit to the Melton Botanic
Garden. Electric BBQ‘s and rotunda‘s available
by the lake. Suggested access point is via Dar-
lingsford Bvd. Concrete pathways.
Cost: Free although donations are gratefully
accepted
Address: Cnr William St & Tullidge St Melton
Other: In-house presentations are also available
(See ―In-house activities‖ in this guide)
Contact: Friends of the Melton Botanic Garden
9743 3819 www.fmbg.org.au
Other: No public toilets on-site, nearest toilets
are at the shopping centre in McKenzie street.
Ample parking in surrounding streets.
22
Williamstown Botanic Gardens
In a newly developing colony, botanic gardens
were established as a way of assessing how well
familiar plants would grow, as a place for reliving
the English landscape and as a place for social
outings and walks. Today the gardens are a
place to enjoy the peace and beauty of a mature
formal garden and learn about our horticultural
heritage. Picnics welcome.
Cost: Free
Address: Bordered by Osborne Street, Giffard
Street and the Esplanade, Williamstown.
Other: Parking is available down nearby streets.
The garden does contain a few steps.
Werribee Park Gardens
Located next to the Victoria State Rose Garden,
10 hectares of open parkland and superbly mani-
cured formal gardens surrounding the Werribee
Mansion. This area is referred to as Werribee
Park and designed to compliment the mansion's
grand design. Picnic tables and chairs in the for-
mal gardens, BBQ facilities and shelter along-
side Victoria State Rose Garden
Café located within the grounds.
Cost: Free
Address: K Road, Werribee
Contact: 13 1963
Other: Bus parking available.
(For more information on the Werribee Mansion
see ―Historical Sites‖ in this guide.)
Victoria State Rose Garden
Located next to Werribee Park and Mansion
With over 5000 roses (covering about 6 acres),
the Victoria State Rose Garden is one of the
tourist gems of Victoria.
Cost: Free
Address: K Road, Werribee
Contact: [email protected]
Other: No public toilets within the garden though
there are some near-by. Disability accessible
though pathways are gravel.
(For more information on the Werribee Mansion
see ―Historical Sites‖ in this guide.)
The Willows Historical Park and Museum
Situated on the banks of Toolern Creek, The
Willows Historical Park accommodates Melton‘s
oldest homestead, built in the 1850‘s.
Today the Park offers visitors picnic and BBQ
facilities, a heritage walking trail and a historic
museum.
Cost: Park entry free, museum entry $2
Address: Reserve Rd, Melton
Contact: 9747 3333 or 9747 9207 or 0402 730
675
Other: Bookings essential.
23
Mambourin Sensory Gardens and MiHUB
Cafe
Spectacular gardens with rolling lawns, water-
way, a working vegetable patch, sealed path-
ways and a large rotunda. Barbeque and picnic
area available at no cost. MiHUB café located on
-site. Group bookings and café pre-orders wel-
come, see the ―Cafés and Restaurants‖ section
of this guide for more information on the MiHUB
Café.
Cost: Free to enter gardens.
Address: 2 Recreation Close Werribee VIC
3030
Contact: 9731 7877 or 0432 631 456
Other: Bus parking available at rear of venue
upon request.
Pipemakers Park– Maribyrnong
Pipemakers Park is part of the Maribyrnong
River valley which had been occupied by Aborig-
inal people for tens of thousands of years.
Pipemakers Park is a historic pipemaking indus-
trial site which has been transformed into a park
and wetlands. Historic bluestone factories have
been recycled for community use. A wharf has
been built, wetlands created, barbecues and pic-
nic tables installed and an important link formed
in the Maribyrnong River trail.
Cost: Free
Address: Cars enter from Gordon Street near
Highpoint Shopping Centre entrance.
Contact: Parks Victoria 131963
Other: Call ahead to ensure the toilets (including
disabled toilet) is unlocked and available for use.
Melbourne’s Living Museum of the West located
within the park– see ―Museums‖ in this guide for
more information.
Maribyrnong River Cruises available nearby, see
―Other Places‖ within this guide for more infor-
mation.
Woodlands Historic Park— Tullamarine
A bit of a drive from the West but a fantastic park
to visit. Enjoy a picnic among the magnificent
River Red Gums at the Somerton Road Picnic
Area. Electric barbecues, tables and toilets are
available. Visit the homestead, an 1840s ―kit
home‖ and learn about its construction and sig-
nificance. The front paddocks are home to some
of Australia's finest retired racehorses.
Cost: Free
Address: Just north of Melbourne Airport. Fol-low the Tullamarine Freeway and turn right into Oaklands Road. Contact: Parks Victoria 13 19 63
24
Other places
Werribee Open Range Zoo
An amazing array of animals living on 225 hec-
tares of wide, open savannah. The Pula Reserve
Walking Trail is wheelchair friendly and come
face-to-face with a pride of lions, see cheeky
monkeys and cheetahs at play and discover a
family of hippos at the new Kubu River Hippos
experience.
Cost: $19-$25 (Carers free and group discounts
may be available)
Address: K Road Werribee Victoria 3030
Contact: www.zoo.org.au/Werribee
9731 9600
Other: Enquire about the use of your own bus
on safari tour. Picnic food is welcome into the
zoo grounds and there is a group picnic area and
barbecue available for booking. A Bistro and
Kiosk are also located on site.
Altona Beach Market
This extremely popular street market offers lo-
cals and visitors from all over Melbourne the op-
portunity to view and purchase fresh local pro-
duce, arts and crafts, greenlife, fresh pasta and
so much more.
The market is held every Tuesday and is located
on Pier Street and Logan Reserve Altona from
9.00am to 3.00pm. (See ‗Parks and Gardens‘ in
this guide for more details about Logan Re-
serve).
Cost: Free
Leisure Centres in the West
Leisure centres offer a range of group fitness
programs that cater for all levels of fitness and
ability. All centres have ample parking and disa-
bility accessible facilities.
Leisure centres in the West include:
St Albans Leisure Centre
90 Taylors Rd, St Albans
9249 4635
Sunshine Leisure Centre
5 Kennedy St, Sunshine
9249 4615
Bayfit Leisure Centre
Cnr Mills and Mason Sts, Altona North
9392 2222
Laverton Swim and Fitness Centre
Jennings St, Laverton
9360 0318
Maribyrnong Acquatic Centre
1 Aquatic Drive, Maribyrnong
9317 0250
Caroline Springs Leisure Centre
9-19 The Parade, Caroline Springs
9474 5327
Wyndham Leisure Centre
80 Derrimut Rd, Hoppers Crossing
9748 2555
25
Western Water guided tours
Ever wondered how water from our reservoirs is
made safe for drinking? Or what happens to your
waste water when you shower or flush the toilet?
To find out, take a guided group tour of a Water
Filtration Plant or Recycled Water Plant.
Maximum group size is 30, and tours run for one
hour.
Cost: Free
Address: 3 sites over Gisborne, Melton and
Sunbury- see website or enquire for details
Contact: 9218 5421
www.westernwater.com.au
Other: Suitable for groups with good mobility
only.
MCG Tour The MCG Tour gives the visitor the opportunity to relive their great sporting memories through a comprehensive tour of this marvelous stadium.
MCG Tours take approximately one hour and includes a tour guide, departing regularly from Gate 3 from 10am-3pm. Cost: $16per person concession (or $15pp when booking 20 or more guests) for a guided tour of the MCG. Packages availalbe including the Museum and Lunch. Address: Jolimont St, East Melbourne Contact: 9657 8879 www.nsm.org.au Other: The MCG Tour covers a reasonable dis-tance on foot, including steps. (The National Sports Museum is within the MCG, see ―Museums‖ section within this guide or enquire about visiting both)
Parliament House
Parliament House is one of Melbourne's best
known landmarks. Construction begun in1856
but the building is still incomplete. Groups of 6 or
more people must book for tours of Parliament.
Cost: Tours are free of charge.
Address: Spring Street, Melbourne
Contact: 9651 8568
www.parliament.vic.gov.au
Wyncity Bowl and Entertainment
The Wyncity Bowl and Entertainment offers dis-
counted bowling Monday to Friday before 3pm
for seniors and younger groups with a disability.
Bowling can be adapted to suit a variety of abili-
ties, please enquire with the centre for more in-
formation. Two course seniors lunch special
availalbe at Scolaro‘s restaurant within the com-
plex (See ―Cafés and Restaurants‖ section within
this guide for more information).
Cost: Seniors bowling 1 game $5.50pp or 2
games $11pp. Disabled bowling, carers welcome
$4.90 per game.
Address: 13 Riverside Avenue, Werribee
Contact: 9741 9777 or www.wyncity.com
26
Western Treatment Plant
Site tours are a great way to learn how sewage
is treated, how methane gas is used to generate
electricity for the plant, and to find out what we're
doing to increase water recycling and reduce
nitrogen inputs to Port Phillip Bay. Guided tours
available for community groups. Bookings can
be made by submitting an online booking re-
quest through our Education website.
Cost: Seniors groups $9 per person which in-
cludes morning tea. Other community groups
$7.20 per person (minimum booking fee of $210)
Address: Werribee area (enquire for details)
Contact: 131 722
www.education.melbournewater.com.au
Other: Groups are required to supply a bus for
the tour and ensure that the bus company has
the appropriate public liability insurance policy
before the visit.
B24 Liberator Bomber– Werribee
You are invited to call in and see the great resto-
ration work being carried out on the B-24 Libera-
tor by the many volunteers on Tuesdays, Thurs-
days and Sundays between the hours of 9:30am
and 3:30pm.
Cost: Free or donation
Address: Corner Princes Hwy and Farm Rd
Werribee
Contact: www.b24australia.com 97311263
Blackbird Cruises / Maribyrnong River
Cruises
The Maribyrnong River Cruise
Depart 1pm for 2 hours.
The Port of Melbourne Cruise
Depart 4pm for 1 hour.
Groups to book ahead. Group discount may be
available depending on numbers.
Cost: Maribyrnong: $20 per adult
Port of Melbourne $10 per adult
Address: Ferry point– Bottom of Saltriver Place,
Footscray.
Admin Office 1 Maribyrnong Street. Footscray.
Contact: 9689 6431
www.blackbirdcruises.com.au
Other: Bookings can be made via post or at the
admin office with a $10 deposit. Located nearby
Pipemakers Park, see the ―Parks and Gardens‖
section within this guide for more information.
Guide Dogs Victoria Tour- Kew
The tour covers many areas of the association
including the Breeding Centre, Honour Garden
and Client Residence. The tour guide, usually a
volunteer, explains the services available
through a video and visual aids – this helps visi-
tors gain a better understanding of various eye
conditions.
Cost: Tour only $2.00 per person
Tour and morning/afternoon Tea $8.00
Tour plus Lunch $15.00
Address: Chandler Hwy, Kew
Contact: 9854 4476 or
Other: Bookings essential. Minimum of 10
guests required for all catering.
27
Get to know regional Victoria
Highbury Tea Room and Model Village–
Teesdale
Enjoy the relaxing country atmosphere of our
historic 1860 stone cottage set against the back-
drop of gardens and water features. Partake in
refreshments, lunch then indulge in a delicious
home made dessert. Wander down the winding
path and enter the miniature world of one of Aus-
tralia‘s best garden railways, meandering
through a variety of country scenes. Open to the
public weekends and group bookings of 15+ ac-
cepted on weekdays.
Cost: $10 morning tea package $20 two course
lunch package – some group bookings include
gardenrailway viewing.
Address: 19 Willis St, Teesdale
Contact: www.highsburytearooms.com.au or
5968 3455
Other: Bus may park up to verandah entry.
Ballarat
History Lives in Ballarat. Visit Ballarat, where
local attractions and hidden gems deliver an ar-
ray of unexpected delights.
Explore the great outdoors on our extensive cy-
cle paths, mountain biking and city walking trails.
Discover gold at Sovereign Hill, or learn about
native flora in the Ballarat Botanical Gardens or
experience hand feeding a Kangaroo at the Bal-
larat Wildlife and Reptile Park.
Ballarat also hold regular events and exhibitions.
Be sure to regularly check the website for details
of upcoming events.
More info: www.visitballarat.com.au
Other towns in the region include: Bunniyong
and Clunes
Trentham
Approximately 90kms from Melbourne, Trentham
lies at the very top of the Great Dividing Range
between Woodend and Daylesford. Trentham
has a number of attractions to suit all levels of
ability including walks and historical sites, and
has a selection of cafes and restaurants serving
gourmet food and wine. Trentham also holds
regular events and exhibitions. Be sure to check
the website regularly for upcoming events.
More info: www.trentham.org.au
Other towns in the region include Daylesford
and Creswick
Bacchus Marsh
Set amid picturesque rolling hills only 55km west
of Melbourne, Bacchus Marsh combines country
living with easy access to the city. An attractive
mix of open spaces, friendly towns, orchards,
deep gorges and forests.
For more than a century fruit and vegetable stalls
have lined the Avenue selling produce from local
farms.
More info visit: www.visitbacchusmarsh.com.au
or www.discoverbacchusmarsh.org
28
Lavandula Swiss Italian Lavendar Farm-
via Daylesford
10 minutes drive north of Daylesford is
Lavandula, a farm established in the 1860‘s by
Italian-speaking Swiss immigrants. Lavandula is
a working farm with lavender, olives and grapes.
Discover 1860‘s Italian architecture, walk
through the gardens or enjoy morning tea or
lunch at the cafe. Groups bookings welcome.
Please call ahead as opening hours are season-
al.
Cost: $3.50 adult admission, Lunch $7.50- $25,
package deals available.
Address: 350 Hepburn-Newstead Rd, Shepards
Flat via Daylesford
Contact: www.lavandula.com.au or 5476 4393
Other: Mostly accessible pathways and bus may
drive right into the grounds reduce the walking
distance to the café. Please enquire to make
appropriate arrangements for your needs..
Ferry Ride Queenscliff to Sorrento
The Queenscliff Sorrento Ferry Service has been
in operation since 1987, transporting cars and
passengers across Port Phillip Bay, connecting
the Mornington and Bellarine Peninsulas.
Queenscliff Ferry Terminal Beach Café available
for meals and snacks.
Cost: $9 concession one way
Address: Queenscliff Harbour 1 Wharf Street
East, Queenscliff, Victoria
Queenscliffe Maritime Museum
Escape for a short while into Queenscliffe‘s fas-
cinating past. The ship wrecks, the rescues and
lifeboat, and the Sea Pilots who continue to bring
ships safely through the Rip and into Port. You
will experience all of this and much more at the
Queenscliffe Maritime Museum and Point Lons-
dale Lighthouse.
Guided tours available - $4 for museum tours, $6
for lighthouse tours. Tours must be booked in
advance.
Cost: $4 entry fee for concessions; $5 for adults.
Address: Wharf Street, Queenscliffe
Contact: 5238 3440
www.maritimequeenscliffe.org.au
Other: Short walk to the shopping precinct, close
to ferry terminal.
Dromkeen Homestead–Riddles Creek
The 19th Century Dromkeen Homestead houses the world recognised picture book art collection. There is a unique collection of original manu-scripts, artwork and other pre-publication materi-al from Australian children‘s books. Located within large gardens of native and Euro-pean plants, this is the perfect place for a tour, picnic or walk around the heritage trail. Guided tours with or without morning tea are available (minimum 10 guests preferred). Cost: Tour only $5.50pp, with morning tea $8pp Address: 1012 Kilmore Road, Riddles Creek Contact: 5428 6799
29
The Chocolate Room- Geelong
Serving light lunch options, hot drinks, cake and
desserts. Ample seating available for group
bookings. Two hour ticket disabled parking avail-
able out the front for a small bus with the appro-
priate pass and all other parking on the street is
one hour ticket parking. Public transport availa-
ble.
Cost: Coffee and Cake deal $7.90, sandwiches
start from $5. 10% discount available for seniors
and carers.
Address: 151 Ryrie Street, Geelong.
Contact: 03 5229 8123
Other: Mostly disability accessible though there
is one small step to get into the toilets, no disa-
bled toilets available.
Blue Lotus Watergardens – 25 mins from
Lilydale
14 acre display garden of exotic lotus and water-
lilies. Enjoy a coffee, cake or light lunch at the
Cafe/Sandwich bar or bring your own picnic
lunch (coin BBQ‘s available). Group bookings
available 7 days a week.
Cost: Adults $9, Seniors $7, Groups $6.50. Ex-
tra for 20 Minute group talk and package deals
including lunch available.
Address: 2628 Warburton Hwy Yarra Junction
3797 Vic
Contact: Yvonne on 0359671488 or
0409548459 or Phone Geoff on 0418350339
www.bluelotusfarm.com.au
Donnybrook Farmhouse Cheese
Drive only 50 minutes from Melbourne (1 hour
from Werribee) to visit and taste the freshest
dairy food and cheese. We welcome you and
your club to visit and enjoy cheese tasting abso-
lutely free. Guided tours through he factory are
also available upon booking which includes tea
and coffee (minimum group size 15).
Large grass area with BBQ facilities available.
Large 60 seat air-conditioned café on-site.
Cost: A visit with cheese tasting free, guided
tour $5pp.
Address: 915 donnybrook Road, Donnybrook
Contact: 9745 2315
[email protected] www.donnybrookcheese.com.au
The Shamrock Hotel—Kyneton Two course lunch special available Monday-Friday where you may choose from a range of delicious pub-style mains and either a soup or desert. Not available on public holidays. Cost: Two course special $15.50 per person Address: 120 Mollison St, Kyneton Contact: 5422 1570
30
Young Endeavour ―Half Day Sail‖ - For
young people with a disability
The Young Endeavour invites young people with
a disability to join the ship for a free half day sail.
The ship sails at 10am returning to the wharf at
1pm, and lunch and refreshments are provided
free of charge. The ship docks at various loca-
tions though it often collects passengers in Victo-
ria from Williamstown and Geelong. Expressions
of interest are encouraged well in advance.
Cost: Free
Contact: Digby Ingram on
[email protected] or 1800 0250 444
or at www.youngendeavour.gov.au
Other: The ship can accommodate up to 25 peo-
ple including supervisors, and the preferred age
bracket is between 12 and 25 years (flexible).
Unfortunately the ship is not equipped to accept
passengers in wheelchairs.
Yuulong Lavender Estate & Tea Rooms A lavender farm hosting 80 varieties of Laven-der. The property, open October through to the end of April, Wed - Sun inclusive. Features a retail nursery, craft and tea room complex, pic-turesque bushland setting, large garden, con-toured hills of lavender, annual music and farm-ing festival, and an extensive range of lavender culinary, craft, and skin care products.
Reasonably priced morning/afternoon tea and lunch packages available for couch groups. Please enquire for more details.
Cost: Admission $4.40 adults, $3.30 seniors Address: Yendon Rd, Mt Egerton Contact: 5368 9453 [email protected] www.yuulonglavender.com.au Other: Only open October through to the end of April. Pathways are rough at points.
Moorabool Valley Chocolate By Design
(Near Geelong)
We have great coffee, cakes and slices and, of
course, our wonderful chocolates. The choco-
laterie is located in the middle of a horse agist-
ment farm. Relax and take in the tranquillity of
the area, watching the day-to-day activities from
a safe distance. Regular chocolate-making
demonstrations.
Booking ahead is recommended.
Cost: Under $10 for a coffee and dessert
Address: 320 Ballarat Road, Batesford
Contact: 5276 1422
lynne@mooraboolval leychocolate.com.au
www.mooraboolvalleychocolate.com.au
Other: Allocated bus parking and turning allow-
ance.
Chocolate Mill– Daylesford
All our chocolates are made and sold exclusively
onsite. Café seats 100 undercover, fully alfresco
in Summer, with plastic screening and heating in
Winter. Up to 20 seats in garden. Visitors can sit
in the café and enjoy the view of the dam & gar-
den, as well as the surrounding bushland. Free
demos and talks at 11am and 2pm daily. Book-
ing at least one week in advance essential.
Cost: Free entry to chocolate mill, $1 per person
chocolate tasting for groups. Morning/afternoon
tea available upon request.
Address: 5451 Midland Hwy, Mt Franklin
Contact: (03) 5476 4208 www.chocmill.com.au
31
Over Night Tallangatta Motor Inn- Victoria’s Ultimate
Seniors Holidays
We are located in Tallangatta, within easy walk-
ing distance to the Main Street and all town facili-
ties, and 500 metres from Lake Hume. We are
very proud of our Weekly holiday packages
aimed primarily at seniors, but open to all. We
offer local tours, plus trips to Victoria‘s other
great attractions and a specially tailored bus.
We have 20 rooms, all of which feature air-
conditioning, ensuite, colour television, direct dial
telephone, hair dryer, tea and coffee facilities,
toaster, heater and electric blankets.
Cost: Room prices start from $75
Address: 1 Akuna Avenue, Tallangatta VIC
3700
Contact: www.tallangattamotorinn.com.au
02 6071 2208
Caloola Holiday House
Caloola House is a six bedroom home with full
disability access and bathrooms, good living are-
as both inside and outside and landscaped and
secure gardens. Caloola House was built to offer
a holiday experience for people with an intellec-
tual disability and provides a unique opportunity
for disabled persons and their carers to have an
inexpensive and relaxing holiday.
• Six large bedrooms with 12 single beds • Large, disabled - friendly bathroom and toilet shower chairs, and a mobile hoist • A large kitch-en/dining area with all amenities • Laundry with washer and dryer • Large lounge has television with Foxtel and a DVD player • Outdoor under-cover BBQ plus a motorized Vergola and full enclosed backyard • Ducted heating throughout and air-conditioning • 24 hour staffing available (additional cost).
Cost: Monday to Friday bookings 4 nights - $900
including linen.
Weekend bookings 3 nights - $750 including lin-
en, 2 nights – $500 including linen.
Address: 42 Gellibrand St, Portarlington
Contact: 03 5229 9943 [email protected]
32
NOTES
33
34
Alex Hurst- Music for older people A fulltime professional musician (singer and gui-tar player) and engaging entertainer, Alex per-forms live (no tapes!) with small sound system. Cost: $95 for one hour Contact: ph: 9370 0630 mob: 0409 139 156 [email protected] www.alexhearst.com.au Other: Duration 60 minutes. Suitable for the 50+ age group.
If Alex is booked out he recommends the fol-lowing entertainers: Brendon Scott - solo singer Contact: 0414 339 227 Joe Hopkins/Monashaires - singing group/ comedian Contact: 9803-7045 Neville Vaughan - solo singer Contact: 9478-7730 Jo Kalinowski - folk singer, solo Contact: 0417 553 183 Brent Parlane - folk singer, solo Contact: 0425 786 312 Tony Houseman - solo opera singer Contact: 5968-5308 Derrick Redfern - solo singer Contact: 9931 0921
Entertainment All the Rage Mobile stalls for your club or centre showcasing a variety of gadgets to make life that little bit easier! Most items are prices under $5 and include bat-tery free torches, jar openers, back scratchers, extendable reaching implements etc. 10% of sales are rewarded back to the facility in the form of free gifts. Demonstrations of some products are performed. Cost: Free although 3-4 trestle tables are re-quired for use on the day. Contact: Jacqui 0425 706 549 / Yvonne 0421 920 392
Bunnings Warehouse D.I.Y. Workshop Bunnings Warehouse team members regularly
visit local groups to conduct free D.I.Y. work-
shops and a range of other presentations and
demonstrations. Workshops are tailored for the
needs of each community group, but typically
include gardening, craft, woodwork and water or
energy saving activities.
Cost: Free Contact: Ask to speak with the Activities Organiser at your local Bunnings Warehouse. Altona (Millers Rd) - 8331 5800
Hoppers Crossing (Old Geelong Rd) - 9974 5222
Maribyrnong (Crnr White rd and Rosamond Rd) -
8318 0100
Melton (Barries Rd) - 9971 0300
Sunbury (Vineyard rd) - 9744 0200
Sunshine (Ballarat Rd) - 9311 4277
Taylors Lakes (Melton Hwy) - 9449 6000
35
Don Jones a magic comedian A show with comedy, magic, songs, monologues and audience participation. Presented by come-dy entertainer Don who has performed in a varie-ty of venues and to a variety of audiences. Cost: $150 minimum, higher for long duration shows Other: Act suitable for mature age groups (50+) Contact: 9789 6266/ 0422 731 687 www.myspace.com/jollyjackjones [email protected]
Jo Jo’s Entertainment Agency Jo Jo‘s Agency has a wide range of entertainers available for sing-along‘s and entertainment. Jo Jo‘s Agency also has a variety of other entertain-ers available for groups, including multicultural performances, celebrity look-a-likes and bands. Cost: varies according to entertainer Contact: www.jojosagency.com.au or Jo Mul-doon on 9307 1246
Victoria Police Band Organisations within Victoria, Australia can apply for the services of one of the Victoria Police Bands for a function or event. Provided the func-tion is either community based or for a registered charity, groups are welcome to request the ser-vices of one of the Victoria Police Bands by com-pleting and returning the application form. Cost: Free Contact: 9489 2257/ [email protected] Visit www.police.vic.gov.au/bands to obtain an application and submit via email mail or fax (details on website) Other: Please read the performance require-ments on the website before submitting an appli-cation and call 9489 2257 if you have any que-ries.
Orators and Creators The agency specialises in providing high quality speakers and entertainers at fees affordable to aged care facilities, senior citizens clubs, retire-ment villages and all manner of community and service organisations. A listing of speakers and entertainers is available online or by contacting the agency. Cost: $35 booking fee + variable entertainer costs. Different entertainers available to suit a variety of budgets. Contact: 9532 7440 / 0419 57 221 [email protected] www.oratorsandcreators.tripod.com
Westside Talent
A booking agency who will helpfully assist you to
find a suitable band (including morning melo-
dies), comedian or speaker for your group‘s en-
tertainment.
Cost: Varies, though there is something available to suit most groups and budgets. Contact: 9741 8399 www.westsidetalent.com.au
36
Guest Speakers– Health/ Living
Beyond Maturity Blues Many people experience changes as they get older, but depression is not a normal part of age-ing. This session will help your group members better understand how to identify depression, how you can support people with depression and what you can do to stay mentally healthy. Cost: Free Contact: COTA Victoria 9655 2125 [email protected] www.cotavic.org.au Other: Duration 45 – 60 minutes. Suitable for the 50+ age group. Bilingual Italian, Greek, Vietnam-ese and Chinese speaking peer educators are available for culturally and linguistically diverse groups.
Arthritis Victoria- Community Speakers
Program
Is your group or organisation interested in hear-
ing about arthritis, osteoporosis, lupus, fibrom-
yalgia or ankylosing spondylitis? If so, our
trained community speakers can attend your
meetings to speak to you.
Cost: $35 per session
Contact: To book visit www.arthritisvic.org.au,
click ―Services‖ then Community Speakers Pro-
gram‖ then here and fill in the speaker request
form. Alternative contact 03 8531 8000 or 1800
011 or [email protected]
Other: Our community speakers can work confi-
dently with the interpreter provided by your
group. We have printed information available in
Arabic, Chinese, Greek, Italian and Vietnamese.
Ricky Lee– 50’s and 60’s rock Well established musician playing a mix of 50‘s and 60‘s rock and other old time music. Cost: $100- $120 for 1.5hr show depending on distance travelled. Contact: 0438 536 254 Other: Act suitable mature age groups (50+)
Monash Aires– Voluntary Entertainers A voluntary group of musical performers who ask only that their transport and administration costs be reimbursed. Cost: Costs of transport and administration Contact: Joe Hopkins 9803 7045
Better Hearing Australia (VIC)
Hearing Advisors deliver informative and engag-
ing talks to many community groups such as
Probus Clubs, retired citizens, multicultural
clubs / group s and a wide range of community
groups. This is an independent government
funded service which also offers follow up with
individuals as required at no charge.
Cost: Free
Contact: 1300 242 842
www.betterhearing.org.au
Other: Suitable for the 50+ age group and multi-
cultural groups. Interpreters are available where
required.
37
Diabetes Australia Vic - Diabetes Aware-ness Sessions (CALD groups only) Diabetes awareness and prevention sessions within multicultural communities in Melbourne. . Information includes promotion of physical activi-ty, healthy weight and healthy eating in order to lower the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Cost: Free Contact: 9667 1733 [email protected] Other: Minimum group size of 10 required. Dura-tion is 75 minutes. Available in: Arabic, Chinese (Cantonese and Mandarin), Greek, Italian, Macedonian, Spanish, Turkish and Vietnamese. Other groups are able to provide their own interpreter if they wish (delivered in English).
Deafness Foundation Community talks to adult migrants in relation to Rubella (German measles) and the importance of immunisation. Rubella, contracted during the early weeks of pregnancy, results in damage to unborn babies in up to 90% of cases. Cost: Free Contact: 9738 2909/ [email protected]/ www.betterhearing.org.au
Other: Suitable for migrant adults around the 18-
40 age group.
Consumer Affairs
We offer free information sessions, presentations
and talks on consumer issues such as: consum-
er shopping rights; unfair contract terms; tips on
buying a car, buying selling property; information
about retirement villages, prepaid funerals,
owners corporations; traps for and ways to pro-
tect ourselves from scams, door to door sales,
and telemarketing.
Cost: Free
Contact: 8684 6465 www.consumer.vic.gov.au
Other: Suitable for most groups as talks can be
tailored to suit group needs. Suitable for CALD
groups who are able to supply their own inter-
preter. Chinese and Nuer speaking educators
may be available upon request.
City West Water Community Presentation Presentations on the City West Water and water conservation for interested groups within our community. 45 minute presentation providing information on topics, including our water saving programs, wa-ter wise gardening, tips for saving water in the home and more. Talks can be tailored to in-clude your group's specific requirements or inter-ests. Cost: Free Contact: 9313 8331 [email protected] www.citywestwater.com.au Other: An interpreter can be organised and funded by City West Water where required.
38
Medicines and You This session will help you/your group‘s members use medicines safely and effectively. You will learn:
Where to find important medicines information
How to get the most out of visits to the doctor and pharmacist
How to remember your medicines
How to save money on medicines
About generic medicines and if they are an option for you
How to get the best from your medicines with a healthy lifestyle.
Cost: Free Contact: COTA Victoria 9655 2125 [email protected] www.cotavic.org.au Other: Duration 45 – 60 minutes. Suitable for the 50+ age group.
Life Saving Victoria
Life Saving Victoria runs education programs
which are suitable for CALD and other interested
community groups.
Sessions available include:
Resuscitate a Mate
Meet a Lifeguard
Cost: Free for multicultural (CALD) groups
All other groups $3.75 per participant.
For bookings under 20 participants a flat fee of
$75.00 applies.
Contact: 9676 6940
www.lifesavingvictoria.com.au
Other: Presentations are very visual, easy to
follow, and are appropriate for groups of most
backgrounds and demographics. Equipment is
used and PowerPoint presentations have many
pictures.
Guide Dogs Victoria
We have a group of speakers who are vision impaired Guide Dog Users who come and talk at different groups, clubs and organiaations. They talk about the type of work we do at Guide Dogs Victoria as well as the type of work their dog does for them. Cost: $100 donation to cover the costs of trans-porting the vision impaired speaker.
Contact: 9854 4476
www.guidedogsvictoria.com.au
Metro Trains Melbourne
30-45 minute PowerPoint presentation about
travelling on the train safely, the network, buying
a ticket and the Myki system. We try and tailor
the power point to suit your group‘s needs.
Cost: Free Contact: 9610 7680/ [email protected]/ www.metrotrains.com.au/ Other: Suitable for all age groups and CALD groups if an interpreter can be provided by the group
39
Moving More Interactive discussions about how you and other members of your group can enjoy the benefits of being more physically active. Older people who are regular participants share their stories and dispel some of the myths about strength training. Cost: $50 per session Contact: COTA Victoria 9655 2108 [email protected] Other: Duration 45 – 60 minutes. Suitable for the 50+ age group.
Victorian Continence Resource Centre
Sessions usually run for 1 hour and include top-ics such as Healthy Bladder and Bowel Habits. Cost: Free (donations gratefully accepted) Contact: 9816 8266 / [email protected] www.continencevictoria.org.au Other: Suitable for the senior age group and CALD groups (interpreter can be provided). Not suitable for dementia specific groups. Minimum group size 15.
Western Water Community Presentation A Western Water representative can visit your community or special interest group to deliver a free presentation on any or a combination of top-ics detailed on the website. Cost: Free Contact: 03 9218 5449 [email protected] www.westernwater.com.au
Victoria Police- Community Education
Talks
Talks can include general topics like community
safety and the police role in the community,
though it is preferred that you tell the Officer a
little about your group so that they can tailor their
talk to the group‘s needs.
Contact the police station listed below for your
Local Government area and ask to speak with
the ―Community Liason Officer‖. Multicultural
Liason Officers may also be available for multi-
cultural groups - please ask.
Cost: Free
Contact:
Hobsons Bay
Altona North Police Station 9392 3111
Brimbank
Keilor Downs Police Station 9365 3333
Wyndham
Werribee Police Station 9742 9444
Maribyrnong
Footscray Police Station 8398 9800
Melton
Melton Police Station 9747 7999
Other: Suitable for all groups including CALD groups.
40
Fire Safety Program (education strategy for seniors) Seniors are a high risk group and have an in-crease vulnerability to fire. Fire safety presenta-tions are delivered by retired MFB firefighters with more than 250 years of firefighting experi-ence behind them. This group of retired firefight-ers have spoken to hundreds of seniors groups throughout the metropolitan area including Pro-bus, RSL Clubs, Church groups, Masonic Lodg-es and multicultural groups. Cost: Free Contact: Metropolitan Fire and Emergency Ser-vices Board (MFB) Community Education De-partment 9665 4464 [email protected] Other: Suitable for the 50+ age group.
Local Community Health Agencies
Community health agencies may be able to offer
health education talks about health topics inden-
tified by the participants.
Simply contact your local Community health
agency and ask about what is available to your
group on the topic of interest.
Cost: Free Contact: Your local community health agency. Other: Suitable for all group types, including CALD groups.
Vision Australia
If you are you looking for a guest speaker for
your club, seniors group, school or business, you
may like the opportunity to meet one of a
specialised group of volunteer speakers, some of
whom are vision impaired or blind.
Ranging in age and background, they have ex-
periences to share as well as information about
Vision Australia.
Cost: $100 donation to cover staff, administra-
tion and travel costs.
Contact: 8378 1163
[email protected] or call
1300 847 466 and ask for the Speakers Net-
work.
―BADGAR‖ - Wildlife shelter and rescue talks Ballarat and District Greendale Animal Rescue (BADGAR) provide information talks with Power-Point presentation accompaniment on topics such as: Wildlife Shelters (1.5 hours+ ) Wildlife Rescue (1/2 an hour+ )
Cost: Free although donations are gratefully accepted Contact: Donna 5368 1501 / 0427 681 501 [email protected]
Guest Speakers– General/ Special Interest
41
Library Images (―Armchair Travel‖) Showing an array of travel photographs (usually 100/120 colour images) in the form of Armchair Travel. Cost: $85 (more depending on distance trav-elled) Contact: 9889 3603 [email protected]
Melbourne’s Living Museum of the West
Preserving and interpreting the richness and
depth of the region's social industrial and envi-
ronmental history. Group historic talks are availa-
ble at the museum or museum staff available to
come out to groups, starting from $50 for a half
hour session.
Cost: Group talks start at $50
Contact: 9318 3544
www.livingmuseum.org.au
Friends of the Zoo A volunteer run service providing talks relating to animals, animal enrichment and matters to do with the zoo. Cost: Free Contact: Administration 9285 9351 www.zoo.org.au/members
Friends of the Melton Botanic Garden A presentation of up to one hour on the Melton Botanic Gardens and recent and upcoming activ-ities. Cost: Free although donations are gratefully accepted Contact: 9743 3819 www.fmbg.org.au Other: Guided tours of the gardens and other activities are also available (See ‗Parks and Gar-dens ‗ in this guide)
Museum Victoria Adult Discovery Pro-gram A mobile service that provides access to the mu-
seum‘s collections for people who may find it
difficult to visit one of their venues for reasons
such as age and disability. Each presentation is
one hour in duration and includes a selection of
specimens, objects, replicas and photographs
and all of the items presented can be handled.
Cost: $85 per session- please contact museum
if cost is beyond your budget
Contact: [email protected] or
phone 13 11 02. For more information visit
www.museumvictoria.com.au
Other: Suitable only for groups who may find it
difficult to visit the museum.
42
Armchair Travel Choose a country or place and view a DVD or some photos with the group. Afterwards discuss the country/place and allow group members to share their memories, experiences and thoughts relating to the place with one another.
Charity Events Get your group involved in charity events such as the Biggest Morning Tea, Bush Fire Appeal etc. This may involve art and craft fundraising etc. Check out www.ourcommunity.com.au/calendar for a calendar of annual charity events and days.
Other Activities
―Activities 2 Go‖ Magazine A fantastic resource magazine for Leisure and Lifestyle Staff, Diversional Therapists, Activities Coordinators and Occupational Therapists work-ing in aged care facilities, hospitals and day cen-tres. We are now in our sixth year of publication, and have customers all across Australia and New Zealand. Activities 2 Go Magazine is a 56 page hard copy publication that is sent out via Australia Post bi-monthly. With a full colour cover and glossy feel, A2Go is a delight to read and receive. Cost: 12mth subscription $148 / 6mth $88 Contact: (03) 5470 6130 www.weboflife.biz
Museum Victoria Reminiscing Kits Reminiscing Kits are designed for activity coordi-
nators to use in reminiscing sessions. They are
suitable for aged care groups only. Each kit con-
tains a selection of objects chosen to stimulate
the senses and promote reminiscing and in-
cludes a user-guide full of information to promote
group and one-on-one activities.
There are several topics to choose from and
each kit can be hired for a period of two weeks.
Cost: $27.50 per kit
Museum pays the postage out to you, and you
are to pay the return postage.
Contact: 13 11 02 www.museumvictoria.com.au
Postal Address: Museum Victoria, PO Box 666
Melbourne VIC 3001
Do-It-Yourself Activity Ideas Dance Movement Therapy Dance has been fundamental to human life and culture since the time of our earliest ancestors; a form of self-expression, communication and cel-ebration of life and community. However, by the turn of the 20th century, the potential for dance to promote healthy growth and change was also recognised. Visit the website and click ‗Members‘, then either ‗Professional Members‘ or ‗Associate members‘ to find a suitable dance therapist for your geo-graphical area and group type. Alternatively, pro-fessional member Jane Guthrie may be able to assist with finding an appropriate therapist. Cost: Variable (Concession rates normally avail-able) Contact: www.dtaa.org.au or Jane Guthrie Tel: 03 9592 4017 or [email protected] Other: Suitable for an array of ages and abilities
43
Reminiscing
Use cards/pictures as prompts for discussion
about past experiences, memories and thoughts
within the group.
Nintendo Wii Get everyone up and active with a Nintendo Wii game.
Group singing Choose songs everyone will love and know and encourage all to join in and sing along.
Trivia Many topics to be chosen from such as: Music– Play some of a song and ask group members to identify the genre, artist, song name etc. Food/ nutrition– i.e. which food has more fat than the other? You can use the opportunity to share facts about different types of food. A web search may provide general or topic relat-ed trivia questions suitable for your group.
Local Choir
Try asking a local choir to come and sing for
your group.
The Price is Right Purchase a series of small house hold items i.e. a bar of soap. Ask group members to guess the price of each item (or put items in order of price) and the person with the closest guess may take the item home.
Twilight dinners at your venue Use nice tablecloths and play music to create a positive and enjoyable environment. Daylight savings may be a more suitable time of year for coming to the centre a little later than usual.
Tai Chi/ Yoga/ Gentle exercise/ Move-ment to Music Too many providers and classes to list! Get your group involved in this relaxing and suit-able form of exercise. Look locally to find a class or instructor. Tip: Try starting with your local leisure centre to find out what‘s already available in your area (See the excursions section of this guide for lei-sure centre details).
44
NOTES
45
46
Community Bus Hire
Brimbank – Community Bus Buses available to registered community groups only on the weekends. Planned Activity Groups run by this council have access to buses through this service during the week. Groups must book a minimum of two weeks in advance Cost: $15 per hour, with a $100 deposit. Contact: 9249 4787
Wyndham — Council Bus Community buses available for hire to communi-ty groups in Wyndham. Groups may pay an an-nual fee and have use of the bus 6 times during the course of a year. Casual hire available on weekends. Two trips per year available free of charge for community groups. Please enquire with ―Age and Disability‖ at the Wyndham Council for more detailed information. Cost: Varies Contact: Age and Disability 8734 0775
Melton – Community Bus Scheme Community Buses play an essential role in ena-bling seniors and other community organisations to participate in recreational and leisure based activities that they otherwise may not have ac-cess to. Membership to Council‘s Community Bus Pro-gram is open to Community Based Groups and Organisations who can demonstrate a need for the service and meet specific criteria governing the scheme. Cost: Fuel used must be replaced, a bond is required and there is a small hire charge. Contact: 9747 7200 [email protected] Other: Groups must apply to be a registered user, and are subject to eligibility criteria.
Hobsons Bay Library – Community Bus The bus is an 11 seater automatic bus which is available for community groups within the City of Hobsons Bay or groups which service the municipality‘s residents. Note: Council does not provide drivers. Cost: $70 per day and it is the responsibility of the hirer to fill the bus with diesel on return. Contact: Altona Library on 9932 1331 [email protected]
Maribyrnong — Council Bus The Community Transport Program provides transport for community groups who would other-wise have difficulty attending or organising activi-ties. The program provides two 12 - seater mini buses for registered user groups. One of the two mini buses is now fitted with an electric step and hand rails to assist passengers in and out of the bus.
Cost: $65 for a full day Contact: Community Wellbeing 9688 0342 [email protected]
Migrant Resource Centre Community Bus (St Albans) Cost: $33 hire fee (plus $70 refunded deposit)$11 hire fee for unfunded groups.
Contact: St Albans Migrant Resource Centre on 9367 6044
47
Accessibility
Public transport services in Victoria are progressively being made accessible to people with disabilities. All metropolitan and most V/Line trains are wheelchair accessible, along with most metropolitan and V/Line stations. New trams and buses are being delivered with low floors for easy access, while an increasing number of tram stops in the Melbourne CBD and elsewhere on the tram network are being made into ac-cessible stops. Passengers should phone Metro to inquire about particular requirements such as obtaining assistance from station staff at Premium stations or travelling in large groups.
Contact: 1800 700 105
More information: www.metlinkmelbourne.com.au
Public Transport
Victorian Pensioner Free Travel Voucher Each year, Centrelink and the Department of Veteran‘s Affairs issue Victorian Pensioners with a Victorian Pensioner Free Travel Voucher. The voucher can be exchanged for the following types of tickets: At any Premium station or The MetShop:
A Concession Daily Metcard, or;
A Seniors Daily Metcard (Victorian Seniors Card holders only) At any V/Line staffed station or V/Line agent:
An Economy class V/Line Daily ticket, or;
Two Economy class V/Line single tickets (to return on a different day) Pensioner Free Travel Vouchers will be replaced if lost or stolen by contacting Centrelink on 132 300. Seniors Off-Peak Free Travel Vouchers Victorian Seniors Card holders are issued with two Seniors Off-Peak Free Travel Vouchers annually that can be exchanged for either:
A Seniors Daily Metcard
A V/Line Off-Peak Day Return ticket or;
Two V/Line Off-Peak Single tickets (for return on a different day) Vouchers can only be redeemed for Economy class V/Line tickets and cannot be upgraded to First class. Seniors Off-Peak Free Travel Vouchers will not be replaced if lost or stolen.
48
Group train travel discount– V/Line
A V/Line Group Travel voucher allows a group of 12 or more people to travel together at a reduced rate.
The fare charged for the group is the concession fare of the selected ticket type multiplied by the number
of passengers travelling.
Passengers with a companion/carer card are entitled to free travel when accompanying the person being
cared for. Group travel must be arranged at least seven days in advance by telephone (credit card accept-
ed over the phone).
Groups may not be able to be accommodated on some services at times of peak demand.
Contact: 9619 2338 or 131 638
More information: www.metlinkmelbourne.com.au
Group Train Travel Discount- Metropolitan (Prepaid Travel Authority)
Allows groups of 12 or more people (maximum of 35 on trams and 25 on buses) to travel together at a re-
duced rate. Available from Premium stations and Metshop.
The fare charged for the group is the concession fare for the selected ticket multiplied by the number of
passengers travelling. Passengers with a companion/carer card are entitled to free travel when accompa-
nying the person being cared for.
Booking ahead is advised though not essential. Credit card over the phone is accepted.
Contact: 131 638
More information: www.metlinkmelbourne.com.au
49
It is sometimes nice to stay in and share morning tea or lunch with your group at your regular meeting
place.
Below are a few quick, easy and healthy low-fat suggestions which you might like to provide your group
alongside the regular menu.
Morning/ Afternoon Tea
A platter of seasonal fresh fruit
Low fat yoghurt
Vita-Weats with light or cottage cheese
Vege sticks with dips such as Hummus, Cottage cheese or Tzatziki
Rice crackers with dips such as Hummus, Cottage cheese or Tzatziki
Lunch
An assortment of sandwiches and wraps containing salad, lean meat and tuna
3 bean or chickpea salad with vegetables such as cherry tomato, celery, cucumber, corn, baby spin-
ach, carrot and avocado etc.
Provide salad and/or vegetables as a side to meals where possible
Catering for your group– A few healthy suggestions
50
Libraries in the West
Altona
123 Queen Street Altona
Ph: 9932 1330
Altona Meadows Library and Learning Centre
Central Square Shopping Centre, 2 Newham Way,
Altona Meadows
Ph: 9932 3020
Altona North Community
Corner Millers Road and McArthurs Road, Altona
North
Ph: 9932 2303
Caroline Springs Civic Centre
193-201 Caroline Springs Blvd (Corner of Lake St),
Caroline Springs
Ph: 9747 5300
Deer Park
Corner of Neale and Station Roads, Deer Park
Ph: 9249 4660
Footscray
56 Paisley Street, Footscray
Ph: 9688 0290
Keilor Village
Kennedy Street, Keilor
Ph: 9249 4670
Maribyrnong
200 Rosamond Road, Maribyrnong
Ph: 9688 0231
Melton
31 McKenzie Street, Melton
Ph: 9747 5300
Newport
13 Mason Street, Newport
Ph: 9932 2050
Point Cook
1-21 Cheetham Street, Point Cook
Ph: 9395 7966
St Albans
71A Alfrieda Street, St Albans
Ph: 9249 4650
Sunshine
301 Hampshire Road, Sunshine
Ph: 9249 4640
Sydenham
Station Street, Watergardens Town Centre, Taylors
Lakes
Ph: 9249 4680
Werribee
Wyndham Cultural Centre, 177 Watton St, Werribee
Ph: 9742 7999
Werribee Plaza
Corner of Derrimut & Heaths Road, Hoppers Cross-
ing
Ph: 9748 9333
West Footscray
539 Barkly Street, West Footscray
Ph: 9688 0292
Williamstown
104 Ferguson Street, Williamstown
Ph: 9932 4170
Yarraville
32 Wembley Avenue, Yarraville
Ph: 9688 0294
Libraries can provide great spaces for group activities or simply a quiet space for your group to read. Individual libraries also hold regular events. Check with your local library for upcoming activities.
51
Events in the West Check these links regularly for upcoming community events and exhibitions: Brimbank: www.brimbank.vic.gov.au under ‗Calendar of Events‘ Hobsons Bay: www.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au under ‗Arts and Events‘ Maribyrnong: www.maribyrnong.vic.gov.au under ‗Events‘ Melton: www.melton.vic.gov.au under ‗Events/Arts/Tourism‘ Wyndham: www.wyndham.vic.gov.au under ‗Experience Wyndham‘ Also try neighbouring areas including: Geelong: www.geelong.vic.gov.au under ‗Visiting‘ Hume: www.hume.vic.gov.au under ‗Events‘ Macedon Ranges Shire www.mrsc.vic.gov.au under ‗Events‘ Melbourne: www.melbourne.vic.gov.au under ‗About Melbourne‘ Moonee Valley: www.mooneevalley.vic.gov.au under ‗Experience Moonee Valley‘ Moorabool Shire www.moorabool.vic.gov.au under ‗People and Community‘ Moreland: www.moreland.vic.gov.au under ‗Arts and Festivals‘
52
NOTES
