Reignite Melbourne
We can do it: Leading Melburnians call for efforts to reopen, reignite and shine a positive light to win back our city's No 1 Most Liveable title.
Pictured: Dr Peter Larkins, Mary-Louise Sante, Brendan Tohill and John Panteli.
Make us No 1 again
Melburnians are being urged to kick negativity and help turbo-charge Victoria's post-COVID recovery.
Calls were made at a Melbourne Day cocktail party to harness the energy, heart and soul that made us one of the world's most liveable cities to reclaim our city's No 1 title.
"Melbourne is bouncing back to be stronger, better and more marvellous than ever," Melbourne Day chairman Campbell Walker says.
"We can reclaim our No 1 World's Most Liveable title by pulling together and tapping into what made us marvellous in the first place – our unbreakable community spirit, belief in Melbourne and unstoppable entrepreneurial can-do."
Marvellous like never before
Master of ceremonies: John Deeks at the Block Arcade cocktail party
Held at the historic Block Arcade, glistening anew after seizing the COVID lockdowns to complete a top-down renovation, the 16 March 2022 event outlined how to get back Melbourne's sparkle and it's No 1 city prize.
Committee member John Panteli says: "It's fantastic to feel Melbourne alive again. It's been so long since we were able to all come together as Melburnians. Work to reclaim our No 1 city title begins now."
After COVID restrictions, Melbourne Day program of events is set to return bigger and better in 2023, including:
- The annual Melbourne Day public celebration on 30 August.
- An expanded Junior Lord Mayor Competition, thanks to the ongoing 13CABS successful partnership.
- Working with stakeholders, including council, government, city businesses, community and industry groups to re-ignite Melbourne, the gateway to Victoria.
- Exciting other initiatives to be announced to win back Melbourne’s No 1 World’s Most Liveable City title.
Team up, Melbourne – bring on comeback city
A Melbourne you love, like never before.
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March 16, 2022
2021 Junior Lord Mayor Daniel Lan
with thanks to 
The Northside Christian College, Bundoora, student won the 2021 Junior Lord Mayor of Melbourne competition, edging out four other finalists.
"I love the street vibe of Melbourne. There are so many beautiful street artworks around every corner and every alleyway," Daniel said.
"I also love the community of Melbourne. Everyone in the CBD although doesn't know each other personally, supports each other in times of need. This is the community spirit I value in Melburnians."
Daniel, 12, who's also a pianist, impressed at a judging ceremony held via video link and live streamed on the internet.
His big-ticket issues?
Cracking down on litterbugs and helping those doing it tough in lockdowns.
"There should be more emphasis on mental-health programs and helping those in need with help lines and counsellors, and foodbanks for those who need it."
Lord Mayor Sally Capp said judges were impressed by Daniel's community spirit, research, smart ideas, enthusiasm and creativity.
'His Worship' holds the ceremonial title for a year – getting to rock mayoral robes and gold chains, march with competition finalists in the Moomba Parade, perform official and fun duties with Cr Capp and more!
Cr Capp announced finalist Joel Crothers as a Special Emissary on zero-net carbon emissions.
Joel, 12, who attends St Marks Primary School, Dingley Village, pitched the idea of cutting carbon emissions in efforts to reopen Melbourne from lockdowns.
Now in its ninth year, the Melbourne Day Committee-run competition aims to raise awareness about Melbourne and our city's incredible Aboriginal history and culture – and instil civic pride by highlighting our journey since being founded on 30 August 1835.
Congratulations to competition finalists:
- Daniel Lan, 12, Northside Christian College, Bundoora.
Teacher: Christie Vaughn - Joel Crothers, 12, St Marks Primary School, Dingley Village.
Teacher: Andrea Harvey - Alexia Kritikides, 12, Loreto Mandeville Hall, Toorak.
Teacher: Elizabeth Blackie - Amelia Hemphill, 11, Genazzano FCJ College, Kew.
Teacher: Sue McNamara - Isla Carpenter, 11, Genazzano FCJ College, Kew.
Teacher: Sue McNamara
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What are the big issues for competition entrants?
On entrants' minds are environmental issues, city safety and the homeless, says Melbourne Day chairman Campbell Walker.
"Many called for mental health support for those struggling with Covid lockdowns," Campbell says.
"Others called for greater inclusivity and diversity, programs to boost Melburnians' physical fitness and more city-based family entertainment.
"Several wanted more Melbourne and Aboriginal history to be taught in schools, which brought delight to Melbourne Day Committee's office," he says.
What do they love about Melbourne?
Melbourne Day deputy chair Sue Stanley says entrants love the city's street vibe, community spirit, architecture, resilience and positivity in the face of Covid.
"They praised the variety of sport, theatre and arts offerings," Sue says.
"The Grade four, five and sixers (aged 9 to 13) clearly march on their stomachs, raving about the city's food culture," she says.
"And they wouldn't be true Melburnians without mentioning the weather, with one loving our city's 'five seasons in one day'."
Each finalist wins a prize pack, a framed certificate/trophy and other goodies.
Thank you to everyone who entered, and teachers and parents.
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"It's such an important program for helping people understand how the city works." — Lord Mayor Sally Capp
The judging panel:
- Lord Mayor Sally Capp
- Channel Nine newsreader Peter Hitchener
- Radio 3AW presenter Denis Walter
- Boon Wurrung senior cultural officer David Tournier
- Dr Jo Clyne, History Teachers' Association of Victoria education manager
- 13cabs head of client services Simon Purssey
- Melbourne Day chairman Campbell Walker.
August 30, 2021
Junior mayor all a-glitter
Boss squad: 2020 Junior Lord Mayor of Melbourne Alicia Gec in mayoral robes and gold chains (left), Lord Mayor Sally Capp and 2019 Junior Lord Mayor Sophie Peters.
After Covid lockdown delays, the gold chains finally passed from outgoing 2019 Junior Lord Mayor Sophie Peters to Alicia Gec, winner of the 2020 Junior Lord Mayor competition.
At a special handover ceremony at Melbourne Town Hall on 3 August 2021, Alicia donned mayoral robes and officiated at a morning tea.
During her mayoral year, her worship urged Melburnians to focus on their mental health to help survive Covid lockdowns.
She also got – as is customary with presidents, CEOs and high officials – a personal letter from outgoing junior mayor Sophie.
Run by Melbourne Day Committee, with thanks to 13cabs and City of Melbourne, the competition aims to raise awareness about Melbourne and our city's incredible Aboriginal history and culture — and instil civic pride by highlighting our journey since being founded on 30 August 1835.
Lords of cool: Junior Lord Mayor 2020 Alicia Gec and Lord Mayor Sally Capp in Melbourne Town Hall's historic council chamber.
Handover at Town Hall (left to right): Melbourne Day chairman Campbell Walker, 2020 Junior Lord Mayor Alicia Gec and parents, 2019 Junior Lord Mayor Sophie Peters and mum Tania, Lord Mayor Sally Capp and 13cabs' head of client services Simon Purssey.
August 4, 2021
Download the 13cabs app - support the Junior Lord Mayor program T&Cs
Thanks to our Junior Lord Mayor Competition partner, 13cabs, we're giving away $250 cash prizes.
Simply use promo code JLM21 when you download the 13cabs app from the Google Play or Apple App Store (iTunes), for your chance to win.
It helps support the Junior Lord Mayor program, now in its ninth year.
Two $250 cash prizes are up for grabs.
The winners will be drawn by random, and contacted directly, at the end of this year's Melbourne Day and Junior Lord Mayor Competition celebrations.
June 11, 2021
Alicia Gec is the 2020 Junior Lord Mayor
with thanks to
Congratulations to Alicia Gec, 12, for winning the Melbourne Day competition.
The Penleigh Essendon Grammar student edged out four other finalists, chosen from a record number of entries.
She was "sworn in" as the little big boss of Melbourne at a judging ceremony on 19 August 2020, held online because of coronavirus restrictions instead of the customary Melbourne Town Hall's historic council chamber.
Her Worship holds the ceremonial title for a year — getting to rock mayoral robes and gold chains, march with competition finalists in the Moomba Parade, perform official and fun duties with Lord Mayor Sally Capp and more!
"I'm so excited to help Melbourne to be the best we can," she said.
"Mental health is a huge issue during these uncertain times.
'I love our diverse community that makes Melbourne one of the most liveable cities'
"We need to create alternative, creative fun ways to reconnect while we're socially distancing.
"I love our diverse community that makes Melbourne one of the most liveable cities in the world and all its incredible food, people, sports and sights!"
Alicia has an eye on a law career and loves singing, dancing and acting.
Cr Capp said with the high calibre of finalists, the judges had a "very difficult decision".
"Alicia stood out for her knowledge, insights and understanding about mental health and well being.
"At the end of the day, it's about people, and you put people right at the centre of your responses."
Cr Capp thanked current Junior Lord Mayor Sophie Peters for her effort over the past 12 months.
Thank you to everyone who entered the competition, sponsored by 13cabs.
Congratulations also to finalists:
- Alessia Rossello, 10, St Mary's Catholic Primary, Malvern East
- Chris Ji, 12, Our Lady of Mount Carmel Primary, Sunbury
- Gabrielle Kobayashi-Walsh, 12, Genazzano FCJ College, Kew
- Sophie Williams, 10, Stella Maris Catholic Primary, Point Cook.
- Lord Mayor Sally Capp
- Channel Nine newsreader Peter Hitchener
- Radio 3AW presenter Denis Walter
- Uncle Andrew Gardiner, Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Elder
- 13cabs head of client services Simon Purssey
- Melbourne Day chairman Campbell Walker.
Thank you to everyone who entered. Thanks also to teachers and parents for encouraging students to enter.
Now in its eighth year, the competition aims to raise awareness about Melbourne and our city's Aboriginal history and culture — and instil civic pride by highlighting our journey since being founded on 30 August 1835.
"It's such an important program for helping people understand how the city works." — Lord Mayor Sally Capp
And the winner is… the moment Alicia Gec is announced
Watch the Junior Mayor 2020 judging livestream replay
August 19, 2020
Right or wrong? What you can do
Aboriginal artist Stan "Yarramunua" Dryden
Melbourne's story is again making headlines.
But has it really ever stopped?
Debate about how our city started has continued since... well, since the Enterprize bumped into a small Yarra waterfall 185 years ago this 30 August.
What you can do
Seize the run up to Melbourne Day to learn about what happened, or brush up on your knowledge, as we work on how best to mark the 185th anniversary — contingent on coronavirus social-distancing rules.
Birthday celebrations — stay tuned
"We welcome the renewed conversation about Melbourne's history, its founding and those who shaped our city's story," says Melbourne Day Chairman Campbell Walker.
"Melbourne Day Committee was set up to establish the facts of Melbourne’s founding, celebrate its anniversaries, engage the community and promote awareness of Victorian history, especially in schools."
"As State Government restrictions hopefully start to ease ahead of 30 August, we will continue working on how to celebrate. Stay tuned for details."
June 29, 2020
Sue Stanley receives Australia Day 2020 honour
Melbourne Day Committee deputy chair and treasurer Sue Stanley was recognised in the Australia Day 2020 honours for service to sport and the community.
Sue is a four-times World Cup Aerobics champion, a leading health and fitness expert and media commentator, author, member of the Sport Australia Hall of Fame, an Australia Day Ambassador, recipient of the Advance Australia Award for contribution to sport, and director of Fitcorp — one of the top corporate fitness brands in Australia.
She is passionate about helping empower women and is recognised as a thought leader from involvement in several organisations, including Blue Ribbon Foundation, VicSport and Variety — the Children’s Charity.
She received an Order of Australia Medal (OAM) in the general division.
January 27, 2020
How we celebrated 2019
- We raised the Melbourne flag with city councillors and 2019 Junior Lord Mayor
- Celebrated 184 years of marvellous
- Celebrated indigenous history and culture
- Had a Ferguson Plarre Bakehouses cupcake (OK, maybe two)
- Took home Melbourne Day showbags
- Dazzled by master-blasters Victoria Police Pipe band
- Grooved to Jack Howard (Hunters & Collectors) and Wesley College Jazz Ensemble
- And more!
Melbourne's birthday celebrations 2019: (top L to R) Melbourne Day chairman Campbell Walker, City of Melbourne councillors Beverley Pinder and Susan Riley, Junior Lord Mayor 2019 Sophie Peters and Boon Wurrung Foundation director Dave Johnston raise the flag at Enterprize Park. Master-blasters Victoria Police Pipe Band, left, and Junior Lord Mayor 2019 Sophie Peters and Melbourne Day deputy chair Sue Stanley with the Ferguson Plarre Bakehouses cake made specially for the city's 184th celebrations. Photo: Danny D'Mello
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Enterprize Park, on the north bank of the Yarra River at the bottom of William St, is where the first Europeans landed on 30 August 1835 to start the first permanent settlement of Melbourne.
September 2, 2019
Sophie Peters is the 2019 Junior Lord Mayor of Melbourne
Congratulations to Sophie Peters, 12, for winning the Melbourne Day competition.
Sophie, from Montmorency South Primary School, edged out a strong field of finalists, chosen from a record number of entries.
"I would help young kids like myself have a voice of their own," she said.
"I think this young generation has many great ideas for the future.
"I love that in Melbourne all different cultures come together and share their food, customs and fashion."
Sophie was "sworn in" at Melbourne Town Hall on 21 August 2019. Her Worship holds the title for a year — wearing the mayoral robes and chains, marching with competition finalists in the Moomba Parade and performing official and fun duties with Lord Mayor Sally Capp, pictured left.
Thank you to everyone who entered.
Congratulations to the finalists:
- Scarlett Sadler, Our Lady Star of the Sea, Ocean Grove
- Sophie Peters, Montmorency South Primary School
- Rachel Arnold, Genazzano FCJ College, Kew
- Daniel Papadopoulos, Boroondara Park Primary School
- Zara Wilson, Mentone Girls' Secondary College
- Jacqui O'Donnell, Genazzano FCJ College, Kew
The judges:
- Lord Mayor Sally Capp
- Channel Nine TV reporter Allan Raskell
- Radio 3AW presenter Denis Walter
- 13cabs head of client services Simon Purssey
- Melbourne Day chairman Campbell Walker
- Australia Day ambassador and Melbourne Day Committee member Claude Lombard
2019 Junior Lord Mayor finalists (L to R): Jacqui O'Donnell, Genazzano FCJ College, Kew; Daniel Papadopoulos, Boroondara Park Primary School (front); Rachel Arnold, Genazzano FCJ College, Kew (rear); Scarlett Sadler, Our Lady Star of the Sea, Ocean Grove (front); Sophie Peters, Montmorency South Primary School (rear); Zara Wilson, Mentone Girls' Secondary College.
A tradition is born: Outgoing Junior Lord Mayor Chloe Amalfi, right, hands a personal letter to incoming little big boss of Melbourne, Sophie Peters.
Team Melbourne: Junior Lord Mayor Competition judges and finalists. Photo: Danny D'Mello Photography
Junior Lord Mayor judges (L to R): 13cabs' Simon Purssey, Radio 3AW presenter Denis Walter, Channel Nine TV reporter Allan Raskell, Lord Mayor Sally Capp, Melbourne Day chairman Campbell Walker, Australia Day ambassador and Melbourne Day Committee member Claude Lombard, and Melbourne Day deputy chair and judging master of ceremonies Sue Stanley. Photo: Danny D'Mello Photography
No fear: Finalist Scarlett Sadler from Our Lady Star of the Sea, Ocean Grove, charming the judges. Photo: Danny D'Mello Photography
Thanks to partner 13cabs, the free competition — for students aged 10 to 13 years — aims to raise awareness about Melbourne, instil civic pride and highlight Melbourne's journey since being founded in 1835.
Missed out?
with thanks to 
Junior Lord Mayor winners rock the Moomba Parade
City royals at the 2019 Moomba Parade (L to R): Melbourne Day committee member and Australia Day Ambassador Claude Lombard; Moomba King and Melbourne Victory star Archie Thompson; 2018 Junior Mayor winners Ned Capp, Chloe Shovelar and Junior Lord Mayor Chloe Amalfi (wearing mayor chains); Moomba Queen, meteorologist and Channel Seven weather presenter Jane Bunn; Alicia Gec and Isabella Di Natale.
August 22, 2019
How we celebrated 2018
We showed pride
The Melbourne flag was raised, cupcakes demolished and Enterprize Wharf's pylons rattled to help mark our city's 183rd birthday on 30 August 2018.
Be proud, Melbourne. You're more marvellous and dazzling today than ever. Celebrate all that's great.
Winning style: Junior Lord Mayor Chloe Amalfi at the flag-raising ceremony.
Flag day: Jazz on the Yarra, raising the Melbourne flag, Lord Mayor Sally Capp and Junior Lord Mayor Chloe Amalfi with students and Ferguson Plarre Bakehouses' mascot Otto with fans. Photos: Vicki Walsh Photography
#MelbourneDay photos
- We raised the Melbourne flag with Lord Mayor Sally Capp, city councillors and 2018 Junior Lord Mayor Chloe Amalfi
- Ferguson Plarre cupcakes were picked clean
- Took home showbags bursting with goodies
- Mingled with our "first settlers" — and Gilbert, Melbourne's first cat
- Victoria Police Pipe band shook Enterprize Wharf's pylons
- Music legend Jack Howard (Hunters & Collectors) jammed with the high-octave Wesley College Jazz Ensemble
- The USA Touring troupe from Stage School Australia's Young Australian Broadway Chorus performed
- And more!
Carlo Catani: thumbs up or down?
By Dr Bill Russell gave the annual Royal Historical Society of Victoria Melbourne Day lecture on the legacy of one of Melbourne's greatest civil engineers.
Florentine-born Public Works Department engineer Carlo Catani died 100 years ago in July 1918. He was one of Melbourne's greatest engineers, leaving many legacies.
He is revered for shaping St Kilda's foreshore, changing the Yarra's course and mitigating annual floods, planting the avenue of trees along Alexandra Avenue, draining Koo Wee Rup swamp and opening South Gippsland. He spent nearly 40 years in the public service.
Former RHSV president Bill Russell, who served as Director General in Catani's old department, considered whether Catani deserved a posthumous promotion or a retrospective reprimand.
Yikes! Ghosts in our city's oldest park?
Things that go bump in the bushes — and more secrets
We heard spoooooky ghost stories about the gardens' past as a cemetery, its crucial yet forgotten role in shaping Melbourne as a signalling station and more on a guided tour by Royal Historical Society of Victoria experts.
Immigration Museum — special tour
Look at me now: Old Customs House restored to its former glory.
Boom town: The view in 1858 of Enterprize Park (then Melbourne Port) from Old Customs House. Source: National Library of Australia. Photo: Samuel Thomas Gill.
Immigration Museum — Old Customs House: a place of significance for all Victorians
For indigenous people, this site is of cultural significance and was a place of settlement long before Europeans first arrived in 1835 — and other migrants in the following 183 years.
A special Melbourne Day tour explored the colourful and fascinating development of early Melbourne and this precinct’s importance to the people of the Kulin Nation.
Flying for half price — Melbourne Day superstar deal
We got a bird's-eye view of Melbourne with special half-price flights on Melbourne Star observation wheel.
Koorie Heritage Trust — guided walking tours
Learn about our Aboriginal history and the impact of European arrival on the people of the Kulin nation, the traditional owners of this land, who have lived here for tens of thousands of years.
The trust has a range of fantastic guided walking tours of the Melbourne CBD, led by a friendly Koorie guide.
There's also a Wominjeka (Welcome) Tour of the Trust, which explains the Trust's history and the design features of the building and collection treasures.
No time for a tour? Pop instead into the Trust to see temporary and permanent exhibitions.
When: Year-round.
Networking like a boss
Tycoons, CEOs and other suits ran out of business cards at this special business community celebration at The Mint Bar. Melbourne Business Network dedicated its monthly networking PM Club to mark our city's 183rd birthday.
July 22, 2019
2018 Melburnians of the Year
Simone and Ian Carson — the philanthropic duo behind SecondBite, which gives food to people in need — won Melbourne's highest accolade.
They were announced winners at the annual Melbourne Awards Gala Ceremony at Town Hall on November 17.
SecondBite redistributes food free to more than 1300 community organisations.
Ian Carson AM said SecondBite was a great Melbourne story.
"It is about volunteers, successive Melbourne city councils, businesses, and philanthropists coming together to solve a problem in society. It has become a story about all that is good about Melbourne."
Now a national organisation, SecondBite has delivered, since starting in 2005, food for more than 100 million healthy nutritious meals and this year is on track to deliver food for over 40 million meals.
Lord Mayor Sally Capp said: "I'm thrilled Simone and Ian Carson have been awarded our city's highest accolade and named Melburnians of the Year."
"The Carsons are incredibly deserving winners and have contributed an enormous amount to under privileged people in Melbourne. When they first started SecondBite in 2005, it was run by three volunteers in Victoria and moved just over 600kg of food a year.
"Since then, it has grown at an astounding rate and recently reached a milestone of 50 million kilograms of food rescued and redistributed for people in need across Australia," Cr Capp said.
Simone Carson AM said SecondBite's purpose has never changed.
"Our aim is to protect the dignity of those most impacted by poverty and disadvantage, while at the same time reducing waste, landfill and emissions," Mrs Carson said.
"This award will create more awareness for this cause, and get us all further down the road to eventually ending hunger and ending waste," said Simone Carson.
A number of other organisations were also honoured as part of the awards. "It is fantastic to be able to celebrate the achievements of so many people working for organisations that are making Melbourne a better place to live and visit," the Lord Mayor said.
2018 MELBOURNE AWARDS WINNERS
PROFILE AWARD – COMMUNITY ORGANISATION
MPavilion
MPavilion is a cultural hub that promotes and profiles Melbourne as Australia's creative capital and international design destination.
PROFILE AWARD – CORPORATION
Club Melbourne Ambassador Program - Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre
The Club Melbourne Ambassador Program is an invitation-only group of Melbourne's elite thinkers and leaders, who work together voluntarily to establish, secure and host international business events to promote our local expertise around the world.
COMMUNITY AWARD – COMMUNITY ORGANISATION
Laneway Learning Pty Ltd
Laneway Learning Pty Ltd has countless health and wellbeing benefits that empowers Melburnians to share their passions and become lifelong learners through fun, accessible classes.
COMMUNITY AWARD – CORPORATION
In Harmony with Health
In Harmony with Health has brought 20 years of music therapy joy at the Royal Melbourne Hospital. The service provides more than 2,000 music therapy sessions at the patient's bedside each year, bring happiness and improving people's quality of life.
MULTICULTURALISM AWARD – COMMUNITY ORGANISATION
The Water Well Project
The Water Well Project is an Australian not-for-profit and registered health promotion charity that aims to improve the health and wellbeing of migrants from refugee backgrounds.
MULTICULTURALISM AWARD – CORPORATION
Chin Communications
A Chinese translating and interpreting company that has for 26 years provided critical links for businesses and governments engaging with China and the Chinese community in Australia.
SUSTAINABILITY AWARD
Melbourne Cricket Club
Melbourne Cricket Club has invested significantly in sustainability, introducing a new waste management policy including an innovative organics dehydrator.
MELBURNIANS OF THE YEAR
Simone and Ian Carson
For their work founding renowned Melbourne non-profit organisation SecondBite.
Herald Sun newspaper coverage, 18 November 2018
November 18, 2018
Chloe Amalfi is the 2018 Junior Lord Mayor of Melbourne
Hot shots: 2018 Junior Lord Mayor Chloe Amalfi and Lord Mayor Sally Capp as Herald Sun's Jason Edwards works to get the perfect shot.
Watch out Vienna, Melbourne's new Junior Lord Mayor wants our number one title back.
And Chloe Amalfi, 12, from Genazzano FCJ College in Kew, has a list of homework for Melbourne to win back its crown.
"We should be the World's Most Liveable City," she told our judges, who declared her the overall winner from seven finalists — one extra than the announced six because of strong and impressive competition entries.
She was "sworn in" at Melbourne Town Hall on 20 August, and holds the title for a year — wearing the mayoral robes and chains, performing official and fun duties, marching with classmates in the Moomba Parade and hanging with Lord Mayor Sally Capp.
Her big-ticket policy is helping Melbourne's homeless, suggesting more empty buildings should be turned into shelters.
"Forty thousand people are on a waiting list for crisis housing," Her Worship said.
Chloe also advocated a cleaner city and managing the city's population growth, including better infrastructure, especially more efficient transport.
"I want to make everyone very happy in Melbourne," she said.
She is an advocate of city safety, and wants expanded the program of festivals and events to woo more tourists.
The Essendon AFL supporter said Melbourne was a "very good fun city with a lot to see and do". We had good schools and sports facilities, and lots of opportunities overall, she said.
She said she would work with Cr Capp "to make Melbourne a better city than it already is".
She was supported at the judging ceremony by dad Charlie, mum Alexandra and brother Ethan.
After a series of media interviews, one of her first official duties is helping raise the city's flag on Melbourne Day at Enterprize Park on 30 August.
The judges had a tough choice, Cr Capp said. The finalists had compelling campaigns, running on issues including cutting food waste, reducing plastic use and packaging, a healthier and more fit community, recycling programs and graffiti minimisation.
Cr Capp thanked Sienna Koop, the 2017 Junior Lord Mayor. She said the position of Junior Lord Mayor was "a wonderful city ambassador".
Now in its sixth year thanks to partner 13cabs, the competition is free and tailored to educate students about Melbourne, instill civic pride, to show how we got here and the journey since being founded in 1835.
Melbourne Day Committee thanks everyone involved: those who entered, teachers, parents, the judges, City of Melbourne staff, Cr Capp, partners and supporters.
with thanks to
The finalists
2018 Lords of cool (L to R): Alicia Gec, 10, Taylors Lakes Primary School, Taylors Lakes; Ned Capp, 12, Carrum Primary School, Carrum; Chloe Shovelar, 12, Mentone Girls' Secondary College, Mentone; Freddie Tremlett, 12, Christ Church Grammar School, South Yarra; Chloe Amalfi, 12, Genazzano FCJ College, Kew (2018 Junior Lord Mayor); Joshua Elliott, 11, St Louis de Montfort's School, Aspendale; Isabella Di Natale, 10, Stella Maris Primary, Point Cook.
Drats! Missed out? No problem.
"It's exciting Melbourne Day Committee has a schools program and is investing in the future of our children, who will shape the Melbourne of the future." — Lord Mayor Sally Capp
Competition judges (L to R): 3AW radio presenter Denis Walter, Channel Nine newsreader Peter Hitchener, Lord Mayor Sally Capp, Simon Purssey from 13cabs, Dr Jo Clyne from History Teachers' Association of Victoria and Melbourne Day chair Campbell Walker
Class of 2018: Judges, finalists and Melbourne Day deputy chair Sue Stanley, bottom right.
All together say "Happy Melbourne Day": A group photo in the historic Melbourne Town Hall council chamber.
August 21, 2018
Top 40 for Melbourne Day
It's sweet sixteen for Melbourne Day.
Celebrations marking our city's birthday make it in the top 40 Australian arts and cultural festivals of 2018 list compiled by FlightNetwork, an airline ticket specialist.
July 27, 2018
Claude Lombard receives Australia Day honour
Melbourne Day committee member Claude Lombard was recognised in the Australia Day 2018 honours for service to the printing industry and to the community.
Claude is managing director of Lombard The Paper People, an Australia Day Ambassador for many years and a former director of Melbourne Tourism Authority.
He has spent almost 50 years building his family business into a formidable stable of Australia’s best-known packaging, party and marketing houses, and is now involved with almost every major event in Australia.
He has made huge inroads into business and the community through a determination to make the public feel included in special events and celebrations, including the Spring Racing Carnival, AFL and now Melbourne Day.
He received an Order of Australia Medal (OAM) in the general division.
January 29, 2018
Melburnian of the Year 2017-2018
Philanthropist, fundraiser and businesswoman Susan Alberti is the Melburnian of the Year 2017, for her contribution to major medical research, particularly as an advocate for type 1 diabetes care and research.
Dr Susan Alberti AC has made a long and outstanding contribution to major medical research, particularly as a philanthropist, fundraiser and advocate for type 1 diabetes care and research.
Susan is co-founder and Managing Director of the DANSU Group and Chairman of the Susan Alberti Medical Research Foundation.
Susan and her late husband Angelo established DANSU Group as an industrial and commercial builder and developer of industrial estates and business parks approximately 45 years ago.
November 19, 2017
How we celebrated Melbourne Day 2017
Concert and family festival
Rocking Melbourne 182: Absolutely '80s headliners Brian Mannix (Uncanny X-Men), Ally Fowler (The Chantoozies) and Scott Carne (Kids in the Kitchen)
It's Our Day: Performer Peta Evans-Taylor was a crowd favorite on stage.
Family festival: Roving performers, face painting and Vicky the Truck kept kids of all ages entertained.
What rain? The weather cleared and the Enterprize lowered her gangplank for free tours (top left), cupcakes stole the show, the crowd sang "Happy Birthday, Melbourne" (bottom left) and pets pleaded: "C'mon, gimme a cupcake, woof!"
We rocked, Melbourne: Brian Mannix in full flight, Junior Lord Mayor Sienna Koop, Stan Dryden Jnr with indigenous art, the Enterprize Re-enactment Crew.
See more photos:
Flag-raising ceremony
'This is a time to celebrate the Melbourne we have become'
We raised the Melbourne flag, quickened pulses and filled hearts with pride at Enterprize Park on 30 August.
"All around us, spanning centuries, history shaped the city that was given the name Melbourne," said Acting Lord Mayor Arron Wood.
"Melbourne Day is a time to reflect - on our Aboriginal history and on the years after 1835. This is a time to celebrate the Melbourne we have become," Cr Wood said.
The 2017 Junior Lord Mayor, Sienna Koop, from Aspendale’s St Louis de Montfort’s School, called for better transport links to Tullamarine airport.
Neil Mitchell broadcast live his 3AW program from the banks of the Yarra River.
Acclaimed Aboriginal artist Stan "Yarramunua" Dryden held a Welcome to Country and called for all Melburnians to be proud of their city and not to change historical monuments amid a national debate on the issue.
The big band sound of much-loved Victoria Police Pipe Band shook the pylons of the wharf at Enterprize Park.
Melbourne's "first settlers", the Enterprize re-enactment crew in period costume - including Gilbert, the Tassie tabby, our city's first cat - stole the show.
Our roving town crier was in full voice.
Enterprize Park, on the north bank of the Yarra River at the bottom of William St, is where the first Europeans landed on 30 August 1835 to start the first permanent settlement of Melbourne.We helped those sleeping rough
If you bought a Mighty Melbourne burger on Melbourne Day, Grill'd donated one to those sleeping rough in our community. One for one, on Melbourne Day.
Grill’d partnered with Melbourne City Mission, the Salvos and St Vincent de Paul to ‘pay it forward’.
Every Mighty Melbourne Burger sold was paid forward and Grill’d will close the doors of its Southern Cross Station restaurant, inviting those sleeping rough to come in for dinner.
Lord Mayor's Melbourne Day Oration
Melbourne Business Network held a Cocktail Soirée where the Melbourne Day Oration was delivered by Lord Mayor Robert Doyle on the topic of "Doing business in the World's Most Livable City".
Where: The Trust, 405 Flinders Lane, city (rear of Immigration Museum and adjacent to the old historic Port Building in Flinders Lane).
When: Thursday, 7 September 2017
Melbourne Day public lecture, plus book launch
The Making of ‘Marvellous Melbourne’ 1835-1890 and the Making of Remembering Melbourne 2015-2016
Royal Historical Society of Victoria's annual Melbourne Day lecture, delivered by Emeritus Professor Richard Broome, traced the development of Melbourne from an Aboriginal place to the colonial hub, in succession, of a sheep walk, a golden field of wealth, and an urbane modern metropolis.
It focused, in particular, on the latter European phase, asking why and how did Melbourne grow so ‘marvellous’. It covered the despair the city fell into during the 1890s.
The lecture also explained how the RHSV created, devised and produced the best-selling book Remembering Melbourne, which completely sold out and was re-launched on 30 August.
If ‘Marvellous Melbourne’ was the product of a particularly rampant individualism based very much on money-making through property, the creation of Remembering Melbourne was the outcome of a rampant communalism and the spirit of volunteering. If avarice created a city, altruism has recorded it.
Prof. Broome taught Indigenous and Australian history at La Trobe University for more than 30 years. He is a RHSV councillor and patron of the History Teachers’ Association of Victoria. Richard is the author of dozens of articles and 12 books including Aboriginal Australians. A History since 1788 (2010) in four editions and the award-winning Aboriginal Victorians. A History since 1800 (2005). He has edited (with others), Remembering Melbourne 1850-1960 (2016), and the journals Australian Historical Studies and the Victorian Historical Journal. His latest book is with Visier Sanyü, Naga Odyssey (September 2017). His next book (with three others) is Mallee Country. Land, People, History (forthcoming).
Exhibition: Standing on the Corner
Royal Historical Society of Victoria's Standing on the Corner exhibition shows how Melbourne’s street corners have been used for more than 110 years.
We taken them for granted but before the internet, they often were the "village square", reflecting the soul of their local community.
This exhibition captures the city's corners as they were, with supporting maps of the city from 1850 to 1960.
When: Open daily until 20 December, 2017.
Times: 10am to 4pm Monday to Thursday and Saturday, 10am to 3pm Friday.
Venue: Royal Historical Society of Victoria, 239 A’Beckett Street, Melbourne.
Enquiries: office@historyvictoria.org.au or phone 9326 9288.
SHE Talks: "My Big Idea"
'Celebrating Women's Bright Minds'
Special event on Melbourne Day
In a TED-style talk, eight women shared their BIG IDEA that entertained, stimulated, even shocked and most definitely provided a spark to take home!
SHE Talks is helping shape Melbourne through events that bring diverse individuals together, through the sharing of conversations, ideas and working on projects as a team.
Melbourne Day give-aways and prizes
Media partners radio 3AW and GOLD104 FM had lots of great give-aways in the run up to Melbourne Day.
Prizes included an illy Australia coffee machines, AFL Elimination Final tickets, thanks to The Ticket Merchant, and a table to next year's Channel 9 AFL Footy Show!
September 1, 2017
Sienna Koop is the 2017 Junior Lord Mayor of Melbourne
with thanks to
Little big boss of 2017: Sienna Koop, in mayoral robes, with finalists Abby Vogel (left), Mikayla Barnes, Julian Cugliari (rear), Alexandra Bardsley and Luke Zeliff (not visible).
Sienna Koop, 11, was declared the competition winner at a ceremony at Melbourne Town Hall on 24 August, 2017.
"I love everything about Melbourne, especially the culture, sights, people, events, activities, festivals and opportunities to get out there and live life to the full," her Worship said.
Asked how she would improve Melbourne, she said: "To provide opportunities for the people of Melbourne to have a say on how to make Melbourne even better than it already is."
She was chosen by a panel of judges, including Acting Lord Mayor Arron Wood, Radio 3AW presenter Denis Walter, Channel Nine newsreader Peter Hitchener, 13 CABS' Head of Client Services Simon Purssey and Melbourne Day Committee chairman Campbell Walker.
It is back-to-back wins for St Louis de Montfort's, after the school's captain, Mason Dwyer, won the competition last year.
The competition, now in its fifth year — for students in grades five to seven — aims to educate Victorians about the city and its history.
The finalists:
- Alexandra Bardsley, St Joseph's Primary School Black Rock
- Abby Vogel, Richmond Primary School
- Mikayla Barnes, Queen of Peace Parish Primary School
- Luke Zeliff, Montmorency South Primary School
- Julian Cugliari, Salesian College Sunbury
- Sienna Koop, St Louis de Montfort's School, Aspendale
Thank you to everyone who entered.
The Junior Lord Mayor gets to raise the flag on Melbourne Day, wins a class excursion to go sailing on the Enterprize, joins city councillors and Lord Mayor Robert Doyle on official and other fun duties during the year and more!
Top marks: Judges Simon Purssey from 13CABS (back left), Channel Nine newsreader Peter Hitchener (back), Melbourne Day Chairman Campbell Walker (right), Acting Lord Mayor Arron Wood (not pictured), radio 3AW presenter Denis Walter (not pictured) and finalists (L to R) Abby Vogel, Sienna Koop (Junior Lord Mayor winner in mayoral robes), Mikayla Barnes, Julian Cugliari (rear), Alexandra Bardsley and Luke Zeliff.
Judging panel (L to R): Simon Purssey from 13CABS, Melbourne Day Chairman Campbell Walker, Acting Lord Mayor Arron Wood, Channel Nine newsreader Peter Hitchener and radio 3AW presenter Denis Walter.
No fear: Finalist Luke Zeliff makes his pitch to the judges.
Winning formula: Her Worship Sienna Koop gives her first TV interview; with Simon Purssey from 13CABS, the competition's sponsor (bottom left); with judges radio 3AW presenter Denis Walter (left) and Acting Lord Mayor Arron Wood (right).
Previous Junior Lord Mayors
2017: Sienna Koop, from St Louis de Montford's Primary, Aspendale
2016: Mason Dwyer, from St Louis de Montfort's Primary, Aspendale. Read about Mason
2015: Claire McDaniel, from Loreto Mandeville Hall, Toorak. Read about Claire
2014: Ebony Chiazor, Stella Maris Primary School, Point Cook. Read about Ebony
2013 (inaugural year): Abigail Dinan, Stella Maris Primary School, Point Cook. Read about Abigail
August 24, 2017
Robert Doyle: 'We have much to celebrate'
Lord Mayor Robert Doyle in a special Melbourne Day message says the city's birthday is "an opportunity to reflect on all that our diverse community has achieved".
"With an aboriginal population that dates back thousands of years, many waves of migration and a bold, modern city, we have much to celebrate together," Cr Doyle says.
"The official flag-raising ceremony at Enterprize Park on 30 August marks a significant point in our shared history as a community that came to be known as Melbourne.
"In addition to the formalities, we invite you to celebrate all that unites us at a free family festival at Victoria Harbour, Docklands on Sunday, 27 August. Highlights include a free ‘Absolutely 80s’ concert, Welcome to Country, Sunday Docklands Market and of course, a giant birthday cake.
"In 2017 Melbourne again won the title of the World’s Most Liveable City, for a record seventh year, adding to our global reputation as a friendly, inclusive, diverse and welcoming city.
"In this spirit I wish you all an enjoyable Melbourne Day."
August 24, 2017
Mason Dwyer: 2016 Junior Lord Mayor
Little big boss hits the airways
On air: Junior Lord Mayor 2016 Mason Dwyer at radio station 3AW, with Channel Nine news presenter Peter Hitchener, right. Mason was a guest on the Afternoon show, hosted by Denis Walter, left, on 6 June 2017. His Worship declared open the 2017 Junior Lord Mayor Competition, urging students across the state to enter online and learn about Melbourne.
'It's fantastic', says 2016 Junior Lord Mayor
Mason Dwyer tells radio 3AW that being Junior Lord Mayor is fantastic, giving speeches is fun and wearing mayoral robes "makes you look and feel more special than you are."
He appeared on the Afternoon show, hosted by Denis Walter, and was interviewed by Denis and Channel Nine news presenter Peter Hitchener, one of the competition judges.
Peter Hitchener said Melbourne Day was "probably the most important date on the calendar" for Melburnians. He said last year's finalists were "unbelievable, amazingly articulate, they had a very clear vision of the world and what they want to do".
Mason urged students to enter, saying it's a fantastic role and "would look great on your resume".
Denis asked Mason if he still had time to do schoolwork among the official civic duties.
"I've managed to fit it all in," His Worship smiled assuredly.
Here is a direct video link (11.24)
'Let's make Melbourne a better place to live'
Mayor Mason's first decree
With thanks to 13CABS, our competition partner
 |
| Mason Dwyer and town crier Ian Morrison |
Awesome, must-hear interview
If there's one interview you listen to all year, make it this one!
Listen now: Mason's radio 3AW interview with host Denis Walter, and guest Channel Nine's Peter Hitchener (8:00, MP3)
Mason Dwyer, 11, is the 2016 Junior Lord Mayor of Melbourne. He was the outstanding candidate from six excellent finalists.
The school captain from Aspendale’s St Louis de Montfort’s School is a keen environmentalist, loves the city's architecture, its landmark buildings, food and people.
He barracks for AFL side St Kilda, is a keen runner, and he's a recycling and environmental advocate.
His big ticket is fixing Melbourne's homeless issue.
"Homelessness is a problem the world faces, not just our city. I'm here to try to help with that," the little big boss of Melbourne told 3AW.
His favorite building is the Eureka tower, and he loves Eureka Skydeck.
"I want to cure homelessness and make Melbourne a greener city full of grass and trees to make everyone happier, and make Melbourne a better place to live. I want to make the world a better place."
The other finalists were Maximus Debski, from St Mary’s, Ascot Vale; Zaci Zdraveski, Sandridge School, Williamstown; Stephanie Bridges, Menzies Creek PS; Alice Casey, Genazzano College; and Simona Crivelli, Genazzano College.
Judging was held in the historic council chamber at Melbourne Town Hall. Our judges were:
- Channel Nine newsreader Peter Hitchener
- City of Melbourne's Acting Director, City Economy and Activation, Katrina McKenzie
- Melbourne Day Chairman Campbell Walker
- Simon Purssey, Head of Client Services, 13CABS
- Judging MC Sarah Styring, Executive Officer, Melbourne Day Committee
The competition, now in its fourth year, is open to students in grades five to seven and aims to educate Victorians about the city and its history.
Top marks: Channel Nine newsreader Peter Hitchener with Mason (top left). Awarding the finalists (top right). The judges hard at work (bottom left). Getting some tips for the year ahead as the little big boss of Melbourne from the big boss, Lord Mayor Robert Doyle (bottom right).
Class of 2016: Simon Purssey from 13CABS (back left); Channel Nine's Peter Hitchener; Melbourne Day Chairman Campbell Walker; City of Melbourne's Katrina McKenzie; (front left) Zaci Zdraveski, Sandridge School, Williamstown; Maximus Debski, St Mary’s, Ascot Vale; Stephanie Bridges, Menzies Creek PS; Junior Lord Mayor Mason Dwyer, St Louis de Montforts, Aspendale; Simona Crivelli, Genazzano College; Alice Casey, Genazzano College; and town crier Ian Morrison.
June 7, 2017
Big Christmas cheer with the Junior Lord Mayor
28 November 2016
Three bosses helped launch Melbourne's Christmas Festival, which began with the lighting of the city's seven metre, 4.5 tonne living Christmas tree at the weekend.
Junior Lord Mayor Mason Dwyer, the little big boss of Melbourne, joined Lord Mayor Robert Doyle, and Santa at a transformed City Square, renamed Christmas Square, to announce a month-long Christmas extravaganza.
The tree is the centrepiece of the square that includes a magical forest for children to explore, free activities such as Christmas story time and carols and Santa, who will be in the Square daily to hear gift requests and pose for photos.
Melbourne Town Hall and Federation Square will be lit with spectacular light projections nightly until Christmas.
Cr Doyle said the variety of retail, hospitality and entertainment offerings in Melbourne makes it the destination of choice in the lead up to Christmas.
“Last year we saw 330,000 attendees at Christmas Square and 215,000 spectators of the light projections on Town Hall; that’s more than 7,500 a night," he said.
Other festival highlights include the Christmas at The Dock family day out on 10 December and the Christmas Night Markets at Queen Victoria Market which are on each Wednesday night in the lead up to Christmas.
Mason, Cr Doyle and Santa answered questions from the media. Having won the Melbourne Day Junior Lord Mayor Competition, Mason officiated at Melbourne Day celebrations and is performing fun civic duties during the year.
Oh buoy! What a prize
Earlier in the week, Mason joined 110 classmates and teachers from his school, St Louis de Montforts, Aspendale, on a excursion on the Enterprize, the schooner that brought the first settlers to Melbourne. The day out was part of the prize for winning the Junior Lord Mayor competition.
The trip included an interactive history lesson involving discussion, playing out scenes, learning about Melbourne’s early history, hoisting sails, steering, and learning about our city's first settlers.
November 28, 2016
Best coffee, pizza now paella.Gracias!
Hola, amigo! Melbourne's paella made by our city's Simply Spanish eateries is announced as the best in world, outside of Spain! Gracias!
It comes as we're still digesting the news that Melbourne is home to the best margarita pizzas in the world.
Watch 7NEWS TV report on 12 September: Melbourne kitchen named world’s best paella outside of Spain (1:36)
Ciao, bella! Melbourne is the best-a margarita make-a in the world-a! Mama mia! Numero uno, capish?
Watch 7NEWS TV report, 9 September: World’s best margarita pizza, cooked in suburban Melbourne oven, beats Italians (1:24)
September 12, 2016
Herald Sun interviews a descendant of one of our first settlers
Family line traced to first settlers: Margaret Stamp a direct descendant of Robert Hay Marr, with an actor portraying her ancestor. Picture courtesy: Nicole Garmston, Herald Sun
By John Masanauskas, City Editor, Herald Sun, August 30, 2016
Read now: Descendants of Melbourne pioneers celebrate city’s 181st birthday
August 31, 2016
TV news reports
Channel Nine News
9News.com.au report: Melbourne celebrates 181st birthday with old fashioned song and dance
Channel Seven News
Melbourne looks back in time to celebrate the city's 181st birthday
Won't play? Try this direct link: 7 News Melbourne TV segment (Facebook video 0:26)
August 31, 2016
Why we should give thanks to Melbourne
As Melbourne celebrates 181 years, The Huffington Post's Associate Editor Sam McKeith takes the opportunity to acknowledge some of our city's often overlooked talking points.
Read now: There are lots of reasons to give thanks for Melbourne
August 30, 2016
The Good Room got great on Melbourne Day
Access all areas: Burnso hands Ross the "key to the city".
3AW Breakfast's Ross and John took over the Lord Mayor's chambers at Melbourne Town Hall on Melbourne Day.
It's a must-watch edition of the The Good Room, a series where the pair broadcast from special locations.
While on-air from Robert Doyle's seat of power, they:
- Discussed who actually founded Melbourne and how the city came to be
- Revealed names Melbourne almost had
- Mentioned Melbourne's first cat, dubbed Gilbert, the Tassie tabby
- Pondered curious items on Cr Doyle's desk, including a sword!
- Listed little-know Melbourne facts, including laws against trading with pirates and driving a goat afixed to a vehicle.
- And more!
Watch now: Lord Mayor's Good Room, Town Hall (9:08, Facebook video)
Won't play? Try this link
John Burns tries on the mayoral robes
Vote 1, Burnso: Just robes and chain. Skipped the knickerbockers and bell-buckle shoes.
Watch now: John tries on the ceremonial robes and chain. (3:45, Facebook video)
Won't play? Try this link
Ross tries the piano the Beatles played during their visit to Melbourne
Watch now: Ross twinkles the famous ivories (0:45, Facebook video)
Won't play? Try this link
See the Lord Mayor's chambers
Big boss' office: A rare look inside the Lord Mayor's town hall chambers
See it now: 360-degree view of Robert Doyle's office inside the historic Melbourne Town Hall (5:00, 3AW website link)
August 30, 2016
Concert gets national coverage
Top trio: Melbourne Day concert headliners Ross Wilson, left, (Mondo Rock and Daddy Cool), Lisa Edwards (John Farnham Band) and Jack Howard (Hunters and Collectors). Picture: courtesy Ellen Smith, Herald Sun / News Ltd
By Mikey Cahill, Herald Sun, August 30, 2016 - published across News Ltd's national network
Read now, News Ltd network: Melbourne Day Concert to celebrate city in song and dance
Read now, Herald Sun online: Melbourne Day Concert to celebrate city in song and dance
August 30, 2016
Melbourne Day 2016 in the news
Could the world's most liveable city be even better?
The Age newspaper's Clare Kermond asks some of Melbourne's creative thinkers to look to the future, to dream big and think about what they would like to see in this town. If the budget were limitless and you could follow your dreams, what would Melbourne look like in 10 or 20 years?
Why celebrate Melbourne Day?
Hear why a former Victorian premier, a pub owner, teachers and spouses get mentioned in this interview with our Chairman Campbell Walker on JOY 94.9 FM's Friday Drive show with hosts David and Sue.
Listen now: Melbourne rocks 181 (9:51)
See the full coverage at WeekendNotes.com here
See the full coverage at Gold1043.com.au here
See the Weekly Reviews full coverage here
August 28, 2016
Eight and great on the to-do list
See the full list of must-dos this month by Mikey Cahill, Livelist Editor, Herald Sun here
August 27, 2016
Melbourne Day 2016 in the Herald Sun
Melbourne Day gets mentioned in the Herald Sun newspaper, 29 July 2016.
August 1, 2016
He's the life of our party, too
It might seem otherwise, but Melbourne Day committee member Claude Lombard doesn't work full time for Our Day.
His real job is running Lombard The Paper People, Australia's largest independently-owned party-supplies business.
And, in between, he still fulfills his Australia Day Ambassador duties. Learn more about our committee's Haberdasher-in-Chief in this News Ltd article, published in the run-up to Melbourne Day and the Rio Olympics.
Read now: Claude, a massive success, on paper (JPG article snapshot)
July 29, 2016
Melbourne Our Town
Debuted at the 2015 Melbourne Day Concert by Soli Tesema
Hear a preview: Melbourne Our Town (MP3, 0:55)
Buy the full version from iTunes
Credits: Music by Bettina Spivakovsky, lyrics by Bettina Spivakovsky, performed by Soli Tesema, live and midi instrumentalists Kit Riley and Bettina Spivakovsky, producers Kit Riley and Bettina Spivakovsky. Produced at Kit Riley Studios (2015).
Melbourne Our Town
Melbourne is our town
Melbourne is our city
Come on, take the tram around
Look at all the beauty
Underneath the Southern skies
And together we’ll stand with one hope
And we all discover treasures in the place that we call home
Melbourne is our town
Melbourne is our city
Take the tram around
Look at all the beauty
Underneath the Southern skies
And together we’ll stand with one hope
Everyone can join us, let’s all rise up, come on celebrate
The rhythm of each day, with all the hustle and the bustle
Nature and man in harmony with each other
They came from different shores and taught us how to value freedom
And those who lived before us shared with us their wisdom
It’s the quiet of the park, it’s crowd and it’s the footy
It’s the starlight after dark, it’s our future and it’s history
We built on land and shore, discovered mountains, sailed the waters
Welcome everyone to this great land
In Melbourne town
Melbourne is our town
Melbourne is our city
Come on, take the tram around
Look at the beauty
Look at all the beauty
Underneath the Southern sky
And together we’ll stand with one hope
Everyone come and join us, let’s all celebrate
Melbourne is our town
Melbourne is our city
Melbourne is our town
Melbourne is our city
Melbourne is your town
Melbourne is your city
Melbourne is your town
Melbourne is your city
August 30, 2015
Prime Minister congratulates Melbourne on its 180th anniversary
Message from the Prime Minister
See the message (PDF)One hundred and eighty years ago the tall ship Enterprize sailed up the Yarra River.
Landing a party of five men, one woman, a cat, stores and livestock on the northern bank, a fledgling settlement was begun.
As the town rapidly grew, the motto Vires acquirit eundo – ‘we gather strength as we go’ – was chosen for its people.
Borne out over the years, the story of Melbourne’s development has been one of rapid growth, great progress and buoyant optimism.
Gold rushes, building booms, industry, innovation and migration have defined Melbourne’s history, and created the modern metropolis we know today.
Now a vibrant hub of style, sport, arts and dining, Melbourne is the cultural heart of our nation, and one of the great cities of the world.
As you celebrate Melbourne’s 180th anniversary, I offer my warmest congratulations to all its citizens.
Tony Abbott
Prime Minister of Australia
August 28, 2015
2015 Junior Lord Mayor
The 2015 little big boss of Melbourne is Claire McDaniel.
Claire, 12, from Loreto Mandeville Hall, Toorak, won our competition that encourages students in grades five to seven (10 to 12 years of age) to learn about Melbourne history and civic duty.
'A very, very interesting, erudite, young lady'
Originally from San Francisco, she moved to Melbourne five years ago, and helped raise the flag on Melbourne Day and joined city councillors and Lord Mayor Robert Doyle on official and other fun duties during the year.
Cyber safety is her big-ticket policy, and she's a big fan of our public transport.
But is Claire eyeing Cr Doyle's job?
"It really depends," she told Tom Elliott on radio 3AW's Drive show.
"Maybe sometime in the near future."
Claire was the overall winner from six students shortlisted — one more than the stipulated five because of the "high calibre, compelling candidates", the judges said.
Thank you to those who entered. We thank 13CABS, our 2015 competition partner.
The finalist were Sophie Logan, 11, from Loreto Mandeville Hall; Alexandra Lakkis, 12, Penleigh and Essendon Grammar School; Izzy McGregor, 11, Loreto Mandeville Hall; Melissa Krstevska, 10, Altona Primary School; and Charli Rymer, 10, St Joseph's Black Rock.
Claire was interviewed on Drive on 26 August, 2015, the day of her announcement.
"She is a very, very interesting, erudite, young lady," Tom said introducing the segment.
Hear Claire's interview with radio 3AW's Tom Elliott (4:54, MP3)
The class of 2015: Back row L-R: Campbell Walker, Melbourne Day Chairman (judge); Kayne Tremills, host of children's ABC3 television program Studio 3 (judge). Middle row L-R: Sophie Logan, finalist; Claire McDaniel, Junior Lord Mayor winner; Lord Mayor Robert Doyle; Alexandra Lakkis, finalist; Simon Purssey from competition supporter 13CABS (judge). Front row L-R: Izzy McGregor, finalist; Melissa Krstevska, finalist; and Charli Rymer, finalist. Pictures: Malcolm Cross
August 26, 2015
It's gorgeous, Marcus
Congratulations Marcus Messner!
Marcus, 10, in Grade 4 at OLGC Primary School, Deepdene, is the winner of our 2015 competition to design Melbourne's birthday card.
"My favorite icon, which I have drawn, is the W-Class Tram," says Marcus.
It also features Bunjil, Docklands; Eureka Skydeck; the Enterprize; Gilbert, Melbourne's first cat; and a 13CABS taxi.
His card will be on show at Melbourne Day events and other places across town.
Download the card here to colour-in! (JPG)
Colour-in, pin on your fridge or give to friends (with $5 inside, naturally)!
August 21, 2015
Governor-General wishes Melbourne a happy 180th birthday
Letter to Melbourne Lord Mayor Robert Doyle, 17 August 2015
See the letter (PDF)Dear Lord Mayor,
On behalf of all Australians, I offer hearty congratulations to the City of Melbourne on the occasion of its 180th birthday celebrations.
Melbourne is a wonderful city, a city of many people, many cultures and many backgrounds.
It is a city where something is always happening, alive with sport, history, theatre and the arts, and of course a great restaurant or a great coffee is never far away!
Melbourne's diversity reflects Australia's diversity, and on this day all Australians wish you a happy birthday.
Warm regards,
Peter Cosgrove
Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia
August 19, 2015
Launceston Mayor congratulates Melbourne
Letter to Melbourne Lord Mayor Robert Doyle, 3 August 2015
Dear Lord Mayor,
On behalf on my fellow Aldermen and the City of Launceston, I am delighted to continue our support and acknowledge Launceston's historical link with Melbourne.
On 30 August 1835, the settlement of Melbourne was born when settlers in search of new land set sail from Launceston, Van Diemen's Land (Tasmania) onboard the schooner Enterprize and landed beside the northern banks of the Yarra River.
The relationship that has been fostered between our cities from the foundation of Melbourne to today is very special. I am pleased that Launceston continues to play a part in the fantastic Melbourne Day celebrations.
Congratulations to you, the Council and the citizens of Melbourne on your 180th anniversary, as you enjoy a successful and memorable 2015 Melbourne Day celebration.
Yours sincerely
Albert van Zetten
Mayor
August 4, 2015
History teachers get it
February 2015
Still Marvellous After 180 Years (PDF) article published in PrimeResource, a magazine distributed to 840 Victorian schools. And a finalist in our Junior Lord Mayor of Melbourne competition writes about his experience.
May 10, 2015
HIV researcher Prof Sharon Lewin is the 2014 Melburnian of the Year.
Pr
ofessor Sharon Lewin is an infectious diseases physician and scientist and is internationally renowned as one of the leading research scientists on HIV and AIDS.
Professor Lewin is the inaugural Director, Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity at the University of Melbourne and The Royal Melbourne Hospital. Prior to this, she was Head of the Department of Infectious Diseases at Alfred Health and Monash University; and Co-Head of the Centre for Biomedical Research, Burnet Institute in Melbourne.
The Doherty Institute has a major focus on diseases that pose serious public and global health threats such as HIV, viral hepatis, influeza, tuberculosis, Ebola virus disease and drug resistant bacteria and hospital associated infections. Professor Lewin’s research focuses on understanding how HIV persists in patients on antiviral therapy, strategies to cure HIV infection and biological determinants of immune recovery following antiviral therapy and the pathogenesis of HIV-HBV co-infection.
Professor Lewin was the Local Co-Chair for the AIDS 2014 Conference held in Melbourne in July 2014 – the largest health and development event ever held in Australia, with 13,600 delegates attending from over 200 countries, with Sir Bob Geldof and Bill Clinton as keynote speakers. It was the first time in 10 years since the International AIDS conference was held in the Asia-Pacific.
The highly-anticipated event put Melbourne firmly in the international spotlight. Many of the attendees at AIDS 2014 were there entirely due to Sharon’s appointment as Co-Chair and her unrelenting drive to educate and advocate on behalf of the HIV/AIDS community. At the Conference, Sharon was hailed by the International AIDS Society as one of the most influential campaigners and researchers in the world – not an appellation that comes lightly.
Professor Lewin is frequently asked to speak internationally and she is passionate about both her work and also Melbourne more broadly. She is an extraordinary advocate for the HIV community, research community and is always ready to promote Melbourne in terms of medical research.
To learn more, visit the website of the Melburnian of the Year and Melbourne Awards.
November 23, 2014
Get your Melbourne Day Mega Showbag at the Royal Show
24 September 2014
And try a $2 Lucky Dip — each one wins! Come see us in Kids Zone (not Woolworths Pavilion as earlier advertised in some places) at the Royal Melbourne Show that runs until 1 October.
Our showbag is just $20 but bursting with more than $200 value! See our Showbag's contents.
Kids Zone is near Gate 5. Download a map (PDF). Our Melbourne Day exhibit is stop No 5 on the official Show trail. Come learn about Melbourne Day!
Get a Super Show Trail Bag from any information booth for $12, follow the trail and collect goodies valued at $140 as you go.
September 25, 2014
New Docklands Park Naming Poll
15 September 2014
A poll to vote for one of three proposed names for a new park in north-west Docklands has closed.
What's the connection to Melbourne Day?
One of the proposals is Lancey Park — after Captain John Lancey, one of the first settlers to arrive aboard the Enterprize and start European settlement of Melbourne on 30 August 1835.
Captain Lancey was the leader of the expedition, representing John Pascoe Fawkner, the owner of Enterprize.
The other proposed names are Ron Barassi Snr Park and Dudley Flats Park.
Click here for more information. Watch this space for poll results.
September 25, 2014
News coverage
Regatta: Celebrating our waterways Dockland News, 4 September, 2014
You vote: Name Docklands’ newest park Dockland News, 4 September, 2014
Melbourne Day: A chance for the world’s most liveable city to celebrate how great it is – Herald Sun, 29 August, 2014
Victoria Police Chief Commissioner delivers the Lord Mayor's Melbourne Day Oration – Herald Sun, 28 August, 2014
Happy birthday to us! We just turned 179 – Herald Sun, 30 August 2014
August 31, 2014
Our 2014 program guide
Looking for our 2014 program guide? Download it here (PDF). Or read it online magazine-style, click here.
August 31, 2014
Melbourne Day videos
Candy and Fiona talk about Our Day
Channel Seven's Peter Mitchell on Our Day
August 31, 2014
Finding the values of Melbourne
29 August 2014
What does Melbourne stand for?
Melbourne Day Chairman Campbell Walker (right) will help launch an initiative tomorrow to answer that question, and help uncover the values that make Melbourne unique.
"Melbourne was founded upon a number of principals that many are unaware of," Mr Walker says.
"For instance, one of the city's founders, John Batman, was an early supporter of equality and tolerance. We want to recognise the values that have come to make our city unique.”
The Melbourne Values initiative is designed to celebrate and foster the city’s unsung values that are ever-evolving and an inherent part of Melbourne’s culture.
Mr Walker said: “Major Brendan Nottle of the Salvation Army and Melburnian of the Year first proposed a values-based project for the city some time ago.
“There are so many selfless acts that Melburnians engage in. By promoting them, our aim is to positively charge the good deeds of our community and encourage more,” Mr Walker said.
To achieve this goal the first instalment of the ‘Melbourne Values’ project - the #WLDNMLBN (‘Well Done Melbourne’ in text-speak) campaign – will be launched on Melbourne Day with Network Ten providing content, media and social support. The campaign will be completely unbranded.
Executive General Manager of Network Ten, Russel Howcroft, said: “I loved the idea of promoting the values we want to see more of in our city.
“With #WLDNMLBN we’re creating a unique, sticky and fun way to recognise the good that flows through the homes, streets and laneways of Melbourne – and elevate it,” Mr Howcroft said.
The #WLDNMLBN campaign was developed by integrated ad agency BWM Group Melbourne.
Group Managing Director of BWM, Mark Watkin, said: “This is a wonderful initiative to be asked to contribute to. We’re looking forward to seeing how the campaign rolls out and what good things people come to recognise.”
The #WLDNMLBN campaign will officially launch during the Melbourne Day flag-raising ceremony on August 30 at Federation Square.
Melburnians will discover new ways to participate in and contribute to the initiative throughout the
coming year.
August 28, 2014
Mayor Ebony's proud of city
14 August 2014
By Christopher Gillett, Herald Sun
MEET Melbourne’s mini mayor. Ebony Chiazor, 11, is ready to rule after beating hundreds of students to become the latest junior Lord Mayor.
Helping the homeless and boosting city security are her two top wishes for the city that turns 179 this month.
"I entered last year and thought it was fun. I tried out again this year and when they said my name, I was shocked," Ebony said.
"I conquered my fear of talking in front of people. I'm pretty proud of that."
She says Melbourne's biggest bragging right is its multiculturalism.
Her dad, Maxwell, left Nigeria for Melbourne in 2001 and said the city had provided endless opportunities for his family of four.
"Melbourne is wonderful, I'm so proud and so happy for my kids to grow up here," Dr Maxwell said.
Later this year, Ebony will join Lord Mayor Robert Doyle for a day of official duties and help brainstorm ideas for Melbourne's 180th birthday next year.
Now in its second year, the competition is open to students in grades five to seven and aims to educate Victorians about the city.
(Courtesy of Herald Sun)
Lord Mayor Robert Doyle and Melbourne Day chairman Campbell Walker in the historic Melbourne Town Hall council chamber with 2014 Junior Lord Mayor finalists: William Long, Mill Park Heights Primary School, Mill Park; Sachi Debski, St Mary's Primary School, Ascot Vale; Ebony Chiazor (centre), Stella Maris Primary School, Point Cook; Jacob Browne, Our Holy Redeemer Primary School, Surrey Hills; Alexandra Lakkis, Penleigh & Essendon Grammar School, Essendon.
August 14, 2014
Birthday card competition winner
14 August 2014
This year's Melbourne Day birthday card and hat was designed by Amy Barnett, 9, from Our Holy Redeemer Primary School in Surrey Hills.
Her design is included as a pull-out in our official Melbourne Day program guide, distributed across Melbourne.
It also forms an A3 fold-out hat that you can download, color-in and wear with pride on Melbourne Day!
Amy won a primary school competition, drawing six Melbourne icons: turtles and fish at Melbourne Sealife Aquarium, Eureka Skydeck, Docklands sculpture Bunjil, tall ship Enterprize, Royal Melbourne Showgrounds' Pie In the Sky and Flinders St Station.
Download 2014 birthday card to color-in! (PDF)
Download 2014 hat to color-in and wear with pride! (PDF)
August 11, 2014
A fine art: historic Windsor Hotel's stint as a public gallery
5 August, 2014
Victorian College of the Arts students will transform Melbourne’s Windsor Hotel into a public gallery while vying for The Windsor Art Award, a $10,000 scholarship recognising Australia’s best emerging talent.
Opening on Melbourne Day, 30 August, running until 14 September 2014, the Marvel exhibition and Windsor Art Award will be judged by a prestigious panel including Heide Museum of Modern Art director Jason Smith and artist Julia DeVille.
As part of a collaborative exhibition between the VCA’s School of Art and the landmark hotel, visual art students will install works that are conceptual and material interpretations of the theme Marvel.
The installations will feature in many of the hotel’s unique spaces including the heritage listed lace iron lifts, Victorian windows, renowned tea room and even a once-secret hotel entrance.
The Head of the VCA School of Art Jan Murray said the partnership with The Windsor presents a unique opportunity for honours and graduate students to offer their interpretation of the city’s history and experiment creatively in a new environment.
“The idea of Marvel is intertwined with Melbourne and the talented artists it produces. At the VCA we encourage artists to contribute to the artistic character of this city. I look forward to seeing each artist’s vision of how Melbourne is marvellous to them, using The Windsor as their blank canvas.”
Adipoetra Halim, Hotel Director of the Halim Group, owner of The Windsor, said he was thrilled to show the hotel’s ongoing support for philanthropy and the arts by awarding some of Australia’s greatest emerging talent.
“The Windsor is synonymous with Melbourne and the opening of Marvel on Melbourne Day is one way in which we can pay tribute to our vibrant city and “Marvellous Melbourne,” he said.
The exhibition highlights the partnership between two of Melbourne’s most cherished institutions that share a combined history of more than 280 years.
In 2017, the VCA School of Art will celebrate 150 years since the establishment of its predecessor, the National Gallery School. Established in 1883, The Windsor is Australia’s oldest Grand hotel and is one of the world’s most revered hotels of Victorian architecture.
August 5, 2014
In the news: Melbourne Regatta and Harold Mitchell
2 August 2014
In the media: The Age interviews Harold Mitchell, 2011 Melburnian of the Year. Read it here.
In the media: Melbourne Regatta article in Docklands News. Read it here.
August 2, 2014
Toot for Melbourne Day
Toot if you love Melbourne Day - and see our boss' Jeep. You can't miss it.
Chairman Campbell Walker's "Melbourne Daymobile" is back on the streets to help promote August 30 celebrations.
August 2, 2014
Making history - by teaching history
August 2014
Students in the city's inner east are learning about early Melbourne in a unique way: from senior students – from another school.
Two Year 10s from Whitefriars Secondary College in Donvale, Melbourne's east, have commandeered the chalkboard and are making history come alive for younger students at Our Holy Redeemer in Surrey Hills, the city's inner-east.
Ben Galtieri and Callum Thorburne are engaging the junior students by using a hands-on, one-on-one approach, helping history leap off the page and into the children's imaginations, says Liz McIntyre, the deputy principal of Our Holy Redeemer.
The children are learning about the significance of Melbourne Day, the first settlers who sailed here aboard the Enterprize, and some of today's city landmarks, including Flinders St Station, Bunjil Docklands sculpture, Eureka Skydeck and Pie In the Sky at Melbourne Showgrounds.
Ms McIntyre says it is part of Ben and Callum's community service program, and an "outward facing" approach to education, where schools and community work together. It helps produce a richer outcome for everyone, she says.
"The two have planned and organised time to teach the children about Melbourne icons. The boys are working with children from each grade, helping them learn more about the city and helping with entries in the Melbourne Day competitions."
Ms McIntyre says under the outward facing model resources, accountability and responsibilities are shared.
"Everyone experiences a sense of belonging and helps achieve a positive outcome," she says.
Ms McIntyre is also the school's student wellbeing leader and student services leader.
The winners of this year's Melbourne Day competitions to be the Junior Lord Mayor and design the official birthday card will be announced ahead of Melbourne Day on 30 August.
See more photos from the classroom in our Melbourne Day Flickr photo gallery.
August 2, 2014
2014 Junior Lord Mayor Competition
17 July 2014
Entries have closed. The 2014 little big boss of Melbourne will be announced soon.
Five awesome finalists are chosen to meet a judging panel, with one overall winner decided. The Junior Lord Mayor helps the Lord Mayor raise the flag on Melbourne Day and fulfill mayoral and other official fun duties.
The free competition is for children aged 10 to 13. Get our newsletter and be reminded next year.
Listen to reigning Junior Lord Mayor Abigail Dinan's awesome interview on Neil Mitchell's 3AW radio show, with Lord Mayor Robert Doyle (17 July 2014).
July 17, 2014
Hats off to Maya
August 2013
Maya Kimpton, 11, from Ascot Vale Primary School, is our 2013 birthday card and hat design competition winner.
Maya’s was a standout entry, with great detail in the outline of the Enterprize, Melbourne Aquarium penguins and landmark Arts Centre spire.
Her design becomes the official Melbourne Day 2013 birthday card and fold-out hat.
Maya is pictured with Lord Mayor Robert Doyle.
June 5, 2014
2013 Junior Lord Mayor
August 2013
Thank you to all those students across Victoria who entered the 2013 Junior Lord Mayor of Melbourne competition. The entries flowed in with many schools submitting an entry from all students in each class.
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| 2013 Junior Lord Mayor Competition finalists with Lord Mayor Robert Doyle and Melbourne Day chairman Campbell Walker |
The Melbourne Day Committee along with Melbourne Lord Mayor Robert Doyle are delighted to announce the winner of the 2013 Melbourne Day Junior Lord Mayor of Melbourne is Miss Abigail Dinan (Stella Maris Primary School, Point Cook).
Abigail attended the Judging at Melbourne Town Hall on Monday 26 August to join all finalists to answer a few questions by the judges. Abigail will receive the honour on Melbourne Day Friday 30 August 2013 to raise the City of Melbourne flag with Melbourne Lord Mayor Robert Doyle and Melbourne Day Committee Chairman Campbell Walker. The Junior Lord Mayor will also join Lord Mayor Robert Doyle on mayoral duties later this year, be presented with a framed certificate and a prize pack of family passes to the Melbourne Aquarium, Eureka Skydeck, Medibank Icehouse and the Ministry of Dance.
Thank you to the official judges of the Junior Lord Mayor competition, Lord Mayor Robert Doyle, Melbourne Day chairman Campbell Walker, CEO of the History Teachers Association of Victoria Richard Smith, Associate Director VET at William Angliss Institute Dan Mabilia, Reporter Jacqueline Felgate from Channel 7, Director of Fundraising, Marketing and Communications at Melbourne City Mission Sue Parkes and presenter from Channel 7’s Coxy’s Big Break Lee Chan.
Congratulations to the following students who were finalists in the Melbourne Day Junior Lord Mayor of Melbourne Competition. You all did a great job with your entries and your presentation at the official judging.
- Master Gilad Cass (Caulfield Junior College)
- Miss Abigail Dinan (Stella Maris Primary School, Point Cook)
- Miss Shenay Ibrahim (Ministry of Dance, North Melbourne)
- Miss Nicola Iezzi (Ascot Vale Primary School)
- Master Sanjay Medikonduru (Glen Huntly Primary School)
With an outstanding number of entries received the following students received a Highly Commended Award:
Ascot Vale Primary School
Phoebe Baillon
Elwood Primary School
Oliver Redfern
Glen Huntly Primary School
Zoe Parsons
Aadtya Arya
Enoch Rahan
Hanah Willis
Shreya Sharma
Ivanhoe East Primary School
Edward Spink
Kensington Primary School
Jack MacLeod
Shreya Rowe
John Dunley
Presperterian Ladies College
Oriana Lamoureux
Alicia Chan
South Oakleigh College
Chau Ly
St Margaret’s School, Berwick
Emily Lewis
Stella Maris Primary School, Point Cook
Bianca Cogliandro
Montana Platt
Jack Raunick
Emily Frydas
Anthony Nguyen
Williamstown High School
Jarred Reid
June 5, 2014
Comic Lounge 2013 competition
The Comics Lounge will come alive on Melbourne Day eve.
Melbourne’s home of comedy, the Comics Lounge, will once again host our annual Laugh Out Loud Party in true party spirit.
Come along for a night of laughter and fun. Enter for free tickets. Only 178 tickets available - to celebrate our city's 178th birthday!
Click here for more information on this event.
June 5, 2014
Cheers! for Melbourne Day
Pubs, clubs, cafés, restaurants, retail and city attractions want you to get the presents this Melbourne Day. The city will come alive with special offers, two for one, or maybe happy hour at your favourite watering hole. Come join the party and celebrate on Friday 30 August. For participating venues click here.
June 5, 2014
