CoPP | PPLS | TRAINING | Scan and Save: Digitise Your Photos, Negatives and Slides | Thursday 10 December 2026 | 1-2pm

 [Edited extract from public address]

Do you have old photos, slides or negatives tucked away at home?

Join us for an induction session at the Port Phillip Heritage Centre and learn how to digitise and preserve your precious memories for future generations. You'll also get expert tips on file management and preservation.

Bookings essential as places are limited.

• Where: Emerald Hill Library, 195 Bank Street, South Melbourne Victoria 3205
• Cost: Free
• Bookings: online via Trybooking

MORE:

Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS)

City of Port Phillip

Address: 99a Carlisle Street, St Kilda, VIC 3182 Australia

Telephone: 03 9209 6655

Website | Facebook | Instagram

City of Port Phillip Council respectfully acknowledges the Traditional Owners of this land, the people of the Kulin Nations. ​We pay our respect to their Elders, past and present. We acknowledge and uphold their continuing relationship to this land.

CoPP | PPLS | EXHIBITING | Sand, Salt and Grass | 29 October 2026–23 February 2027

[Edited extract from public address]

A display exploring stories behind three types of open space: beach, water and parkland. 

Present day Port Melbourne is very well served for open, free recreational space with the calm waters of Hobson’s Bay, several sandy beaches and more than twenty separate open parks.

This display was created in partnership with the Port Melbourne Historical and Preservation Society.

Visit our Heritage Centre to learn more and explore the display.

• Where: Emerald Hill Library and Port Phillip Heritage Centre, 195 Bank St, South Melbourne VIC 3205
• Cost: Free
• Bookings: no bookings required. Visit during weekday Emerald Hill Library opening hours

MORE:

Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS)

City of Port Phillip

Address: 99a Carlisle Street, St Kilda, VIC 3182 Australia

Telephone: 03 9209 6655

Website | Facebook | Instagram

City of Port Phillip Council respectfully acknowledges the Traditional Owners of this land, the people of the Kulin Nations. ​We pay our respect to their Elders, past and present. We acknowledge and uphold their continuing relationship to this land.

CoPP | GOV | CALLING | Members to join Cultural Heritage Reference Group | applications close Saturday 21 November 2026

[Edited extract from public address]

The Cultural Heritage Reference Group provides advice and feedback to Council on matters relating to cultural heritage and local history across the City of Port Phillip.

Purpose of the Cultural Heritage Reference Group

• The Cultural Heritage Reference Group assists Council by providing advice and feedback on cultural heritage and local history through:
• input to policies and guidelines which impact on cultural heritage and history
• serving as a resource for Council in relation to built heritage where relevant
• suggestions which improve access to heritage services for residents
• assist in the development of city-wide programs to highlight historical and heritage assets of the city
• improving access to community resources where relevant to support heritage services
• providing feedback regarding memorial and monument conservation priorities
• assessment against selection criteria, and endorsement where appropriate, of applications for new memorials within the Memorials and Monuments Policy and Guidelines 2025
• providing feedback regarding memorial and monument conservation priorities.

Fill in the online application form to apply.

• Apply Now

MORE:

City of Port Phillip (CoPP)

Address: 99a Carlisle Street, St Kilda, VIC 3182 Australia

Telephone: 03 9209 6655

Website

City of Port Phillip Council respectfully acknowledges the Traditional Owners of this land, the people of the Kulin Nations. ​We pay our respect to their Elders, past and present. We acknowledge and uphold their continuing relationship to this land.

CoPP | PPLS | TALKING | Blood Politics: Nurses and Australia's AIDS Crisis | Monday 30 November 2026 | 6-7.30pm

[Edited extract from public address]

Join this special World AIDS Day conversation exploring care, community and activism during Australia's HIV/AIDS epidemic.

Hosted by Leigh Boucher, the discussion features award-winning historian and author Geraldine Fela, David Menadue and Judy Frecker, who will reflect on the experiences of nurses, carers, activists and people living with HIV, and how these stories continue to shape conversations today.

Presented in partnership with the Australian Queer Archives, the event also includes a special exhibition of archival materials.

• Where: St Kilda Library, 150 Carlisle Street, St Kilda Victoria 3182
• Cost: Free
• Bookings: online via Trybooking

MORE:

Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS)

City of Port Phillip

Address: 99a Carlisle Street, St Kilda, VIC 3182 Australia

Telephone: 03 9209 6655

Website | Facebook | Instagram

City of Port Phillip Council respectfully acknowledges the Traditional Owners of this land, the people of the Kulin Nations. ​We pay our respect to their Elders, past and present. We acknowledge and uphold their continuing relationship to this land.

CoPP | PPLS | TRAINING | Scan and Save: Digitise Your Photos, Negatives and Slides | Thursday 12 November 2026 | 1-2pm

[Edited extract from public address]

Do you have old photos, slides or negatives tucked away at home?

Join us for an induction session at the Port Phillip Heritage Centre and learn how to digitise and preserve your precious memories for future generations. You'll also get expert tips on file management and preservation.

Bookings essential as places are limited.

• Where: Emerald Hill Library, 195 Bank Street, South Melbourne Victoria 3205
• Cost: Free
• Bookings: online via Trybooking

MORE:

Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS)

City of Port Phillip

Address: 99a Carlisle Street, St Kilda, VIC 3182 Australia

Telephone: 03 9209 6655

Website | Facebook | Instagram

City of Port Phillip Council respectfully acknowledges the Traditional Owners of this land, the people of the Kulin Nations. ​We pay our respect to their Elders, past and present. We acknowledge and uphold their continuing relationship to this land.

CoPP | PPLS | TALKING | Montague: The Lost Suburb | Tuesday 13 October 2026 | 2-3pm

[Edited extract from public address]

Join former Local History Librarian Kay Rowan to explore how the distinctive and close-knit suburb of Montague developed, and what daily life was like for the people who called it home.

Now a key focus of residential development within the Fishermans Bend renewal area, Montague is expected to experience significant growth over the next decade. This talk offers a unique opportunity to reflect on the people, places and ongoing change that have shaped the suburb over time. The presentation will be accompanied by a selection of historic photographs.

• Where: Emerald Hill Library, 195 Bank Street, South Melbourne Victoria 3205
• Cost: Free
• Bookings: online via Trybooking

MORE:

Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS)

City of Port Phillip

Address: 99a Carlisle Street, St Kilda, VIC 3182 Australia

Telephone: 03 9209 6655

Website | Facebook | Instagram

City of Port Phillip Council respectfully acknowledges the Traditional Owners of this land, the people of the Kulin Nations. ​We pay our respect to their Elders, past and present. We acknowledge and uphold their continuing relationship to this land.

CoPP | PPLS | GATHERING | For Show and Tell Family History Club | Thursday 1 October 2026 | 1-2pm

[Edited extract from public address]

Please join us for a special Senior’s Festival session of Family History Club!

To celebrate Senior’s Festival, we will be hosting a show and tell of personal items. Please bring along an item that is significant to your family history or to our local City of Port Phillip history. We will discuss all your treasured items over tea and biscuits.

• Where: Emerald Hill Library, 195 Bank Street, South Melbourne Victoria 3205
• Cost: Free
• Bookings: online via Trybooking

MORE:

Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS)

City of Port Phillip

Address: 99a Carlisle Street, St Kilda, VIC 3182 Australia

Telephone: 03 9209 6655

Website | Facebook | Instagram

City of Port Phillip Council respectfully acknowledges the Traditional Owners of this land, the people of the Kulin Nations. ​We pay our respect to their Elders, past and present. We acknowledge and uphold their continuing relationship to this land.

CoPP | PPLS | TUTORING | Free at the Emerald Hill Library | Weekly, Thursday evenings during school terms | 6-7.30pm

[Edited extract from public address]

The Emerald Hill Library runs free tutoring sessions for primary school children from grade 3 to grade 6. 

The sessions run from 6 pm to 7.30 pm on Thursday evenings during school terms. Volunteer tutors provide one-on-one assistance with different aspects of schoolwork, including Math's, English, Science and school projects around topics such as history, geography, social issues etc.  

We currently have a number of vacant places for students who would like to attend these tutoring sessions on Thursday evenings. 

If you would like your child to enjoy the benefits of extra one-on-one tutoring, please contact Peter Conlon on 9209 6611 or email.

MORE:

Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS)

City of Port Phillip

Address: 99a Carlisle Street, St Kilda, VIC 3182 Australia

Telephone: 03 9209 6655

Website | Facebook | Instagram

City of Port Phillip Council respectfully acknowledges the Traditional Owners of this land, the people of the Kulin Nations. ​We pay our respect to their Elders, past and present. We acknowledge and uphold their continuing relationship to this land.

CoPP | PPLS | TALKING | Non Fiction Book club | Tuesday 27 October 2026 | 6.30pm

[Edited extract from public address]

Love true stories, big ideas and learning something new? 

Join the Friends of Emerald Hill Library for friendly discussions about thought-provoking non-fiction books in a welcoming and relaxed setting.

This month's title is A training School for Elephants by Sophie Elmhirst, a remarkable true story about an ambitious plan to use elephants to expand colonial power in Africa, and the lasting consequences of that extraordinary venture.

• Where: Emerald Hill Library, 195 Bank Street, South Melbourne Vic 3183
• Cost: Free
• Bookings: Not required. New members are always welcome. Drop by, meet the group, explore the latest books, and stay for the conversation!

MORE:

Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS)

City of Port Phillip

Address: 99a Carlisle Street, St Kilda, VIC 3182 Australia

Telephone: 03 9209 6655

Website | Facebook | Instagram

City of Port Phillip Council respectfully acknowledges the Traditional Owners of this land, the people of the Kulin Nations. ​We pay our respect to their Elders, past and present. We acknowledge and uphold their continuing relationship to this land.

CoPP | PPLS | READING | Recommendations

[Edited extract from public address]

Need some direction for your reading? These reads come pre-approved by Port Phillip Library Staff. 

There's no higher recommendation out there so dive into this eclectic mix of guaranteed hits.

Browse their top picks and discover new authors, hidden gems and unforgettable reads to add to your reading list.

Don't forget, you can also leave review on our catalogue to make sure other readers can discover your favourite books.

• Explore our staff picks

MORE:

Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS)

City of Port Phillip

Address: 99a Carlisle Street, St Kilda, VIC 3182 Australia

Telephone: 03 9209 6655

Website | Facebook | Instagram

City of Port Phillip Council respectfully acknowledges the Traditional Owners of this land, the people of the Kulin Nations. ​We pay our respect to their Elders, past and present. We acknowledge and uphold their continuing relationship to this land.

CoPP | PPLS | WORKSHOPPING | Bike Maintenance at new time | Monthly, fourth Saturday | 12.30-3.30pm

[Edited extract from public address]

Join the experts from St Kilda Bike Kitchen on the fourth Saturday of each month for a free hands-on bike repair workshop.

Bring your bike and learn practical skills including fixing a flat tyre, adjusting brakes and gears, maintaining your chain, and more. Families are welcome.

• Where: St Kilda Library, Community Room, 150 Carlisle Street, St Kilda Victoria 3182
• Cost: Free
• Bookings: online via Eventbrite

MORE:

Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS)

City of Port Phillip

Address: 99a Carlisle Street, St Kilda, VIC 3182 Australia

Telephone: 03 9209 6655

Website | Facebook | Instagram

City of Port Phillip Council respectfully acknowledges the Traditional Owners of this land, the people of the Kulin Nations. ​We pay our respect to their Elders, past and present. We acknowledge and uphold their continuing relationship to this land.

VIC | PROV | TALKING | With Sam Wallman: Why comics pack a punch for tricky truth-telling | Thursday 24 September 2026 | arrive 5.30pm for 6-7pm

[Edited extract from public address]

Join Sam in conversation with Bailey Sharp, as he unpacks how to transform investigations of historic archives into graphic storytelling.

Award-winning illustrator and journalist Sam Wallman turns comics into a tool for confronting hard truths. His subjects have ranged from Australian workers' rights to Eastern European border camps and even Donald Trump's presidential campaign.

Hear Sam discuss why comics and graphic storytelling can reach people in ways that photographs and news articles sometimes can’t.

He'll share a first look at his research for his upcoming book All Out: Pink Bans and Blue Collars, about a pivotal chapter in Australian history where union activism and queer rights collided.

Drawing on archival records, he'll also uncover the story of Max du Barry, who Sam describes as “Melbourne's late, great drag queen wharfie”.

Hosted by cartoonist, publisher and educator Bailey Sharp. Bailey co-runs comics publisher Glom Press and is the co-organiser of the Other Worlds zine fair.

Doors open at 5.30pm, with Sam’s exhibition Pink and Green Bans on display in the Victorian Archives Centre Gallery. The talk starts at 6pm. Online tickets are also available.

Content advice: This talk includes historical discussion of suicide.

• Where: Victorian Archives Centre, 99 Shiel Street, North Melbourne VIC 3051
• Cost: $6
• Bookings: online via Eventbrite

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Public Record Office Victoria (PROV)

Address: Victorian Archives Centre, 99 Shiel Street, North Melbourne VIC 3051

Website | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn

PROV acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the land on which our offices are located, and their continuing connection to land, culture and community. We pay our respects to Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all First Nations people.

CoPP | PPLS | WALKING | With Tobias Nash to Ghost Signs of South Melbourne | Saturday 19 September 2026 | 2-4pm

[Edited extract from public address]

Travel streets, back lanes and industrial walls seeking ancient advertising typography, signage and hand-painted stencils known as ‘Ghost Signs’.

• Where: Start and finish: Emerald Hill Heritage Centre, 195 Bank Street, South Melbourne Vic 3183
• Cost: Free
• Bookings: online via Trybooking

MORE:

Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS)

City of Port Phillip

Address: 99a Carlisle Street, St Kilda, VIC 3182 Australia

Telephone: 03 9209 6655

Website | Facebook | Instagram

City of Port Phillip Council respectfully acknowledges the Traditional Owners of this land, the people of the Kulin Nations. ​We pay our respect to their Elders, past and present. We acknowledge and uphold their continuing relationship to this land.

CoPP | PPLS | TALKING | Researching your Middle Park home | Tuesday 22 September 2026 | 6-7pm

[Edited extract from public address]

Do you remember Middle Park in the 1970s? Or ever wondered what your street looked like decades ago?

Join us for the launch of Your Home @ 3206, an extraordinary online archive featuring historic images of every Middle Park house and stories from the community. You'll learn how this remarkable project can help you uncover the history of the place you call home.

Presented by the Middle Park and Albert Park History Group with the Port Phillip Heritage Centre.

• Where: Emerald Hill Library, 195 Bank Street, South Melbourne Victoria 3205
• Cost: Free
• Bookings: online via Trybooking

MORE:

Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS)

City of Port Phillip

Address: 99a Carlisle Street, St Kilda, VIC 3182 Australia

Telephone: 03 9209 6655

Website | Facebook | Instagram

City of Port Phillip Council respectfully acknowledges the Traditional Owners of this land, the people of the Kulin Nations. ​We pay our respect to their Elders, past and present. We acknowledge and uphold their continuing relationship to this land.

CoPP | PPLS | SCREENING | Local music legends on screen | Tuesday 1 September 2026 | 6-7.30pm

[Edited extract from public address]

Experience the stories, songs and personalities that have helped define Port Phillip's vibrant music scene. 

This special encore screening features two acclaimed short films from the 2026 St Kilda Film Festival.

The MEMO Music Hall Rokumentary shines a spotlight on the iconic St Kilda venue through live performances and interviews with the artists who helped make it what it is today. The second screening, Music & Poetry in the City of Port Phillip (2006-2026), celebrates two decades of music, creativity and community connection. 

For music fans and local history buffs, it's a night not to miss. The screening is rated 15+ and is suitable for patrons aged 15 years and over.

• Where: Emerald Hill Library, 195 Bank Street, South Melbourne Victoria 3205
• Cost: Free
• Bookings: online via Trybooking

MORE:

Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS)

City of Port Phillip

Address: 99a Carlisle Street, St Kilda, VIC 3182 Australia

Telephone: 03 9209 6655

Website | Facebook | Instagram

City of Port Phillip Council respectfully acknowledges the Traditional Owners of this land, the people of the Kulin Nations. ​We pay our respect to their Elders, past and present. We acknowledge and uphold their continuing relationship to this land.

CoPP | PPLS | SHARING | Your Memories of St Kilda Library

[Edited extract from public address]

St Kilda Library is celebrating its rich history in partnership with Open House Melbourne and the University of Melbourne’s exhibition Taglietti: A Life in Design. 

Built through strong community advocacy for a free public library, the space was designed by Enrico Taglietti as a welcoming refuge where people could feel more alive.

Our library is inviting the community to share personal memories, from borrowing a first book to studying, attending events, or simply enjoying a quiet place. Selected stories may be featured in a display, included in an online exhibition, and preserved by the Port Phillip Heritage Centre.

You can contribute by submitting a written memory, photo or audio recording.

• Learn More

MORE:

Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS)

City of Port Phillip

Address: 99a Carlisle Street, St Kilda, VIC 3182 Australia

Telephone: 03 9209 6655

Website | Facebook | Instagram

City of Port Phillip Council respectfully acknowledges the Traditional Owners of this land, the people of the Kulin Nations. ​We pay our respect to their Elders, past and present. We acknowledge and uphold their continuing relationship to this land.

CoPP | PPLS | TALKING | Remembrance Day Family History Club | Thursday 6 November 2025 | 1-2pm

[Edited extract from public address]

Please join us for a special Remembrance Day session of Family History Club.

For our November meeting, Jill Powell will walk us through how she brings family war stories to life on-screen, using her family photos and basic digital collaging techniques. Tea and biscuits provided, see you there! 

• Where: Port Phillip Heritage Centre, Emerald Hill Library, 195 Bank Street, South Melbourne Victoria 3205
• Cost: Free
• Bookings: online via Trybooking

MORE:

Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS)

City of Port Phillip

Address: 99a Carlisle Street, St Kilda, VIC 3182 Australia

Telephone: 03 9209 6655

Website | Facebook | Instagram

City of Port Phillip Council respectfully acknowledges the Traditional Owners of this land, the people of the Kulin Nations. ​We pay our respect to their Elders, past and present. We acknowledge and uphold their continuing relationship to this land.