Help shape the future of arts, culture and events on the Peninsula

Published on 21 October 2025

Mornington Peninsula Shire is calling on residents, artists, event organisers and culture lovers to help design the future of arts, culture and events across our region.

We're developing a new Arts, Culture and Events Plan, and we want to hear from you. Whether you're a local artist, a weekend market enthusiast, a sports spectator or a family looking for more to do – your ideas matter.

What we want to know:

• What’s working well in our arts, culture and events scene
• Opportunities to improve or expand cultural offerings
• Ideas for events, exhibitions, or local creative projects
• Balancing large and small-scale events in a way that works for the community
• Spaces that could be activated for culture, as well as areas that should be protected or left undisturbed.

Your feedback will help ensure the plan supports local artists, brings creative experiences to residents, and respects the Peninsula’s unique environment.

As part of the consultation, help us name the Arts, Culture and Events Plan and go into the draw to win a $100 Mornington Peninsula Regional Gallery voucher and a private tour with the Gallery Curator.

Why it matters

A thriving arts, culture and events scene brings real benefits to our community:

• Builds stronger community connections through shared experiences
• Creates jobs and supports local businesses and creative industries
• Attracts visitors who spend money in our cafes, shops and accommodation
• Provides entertainment, learning and creative opportunities for all ages
• Enhances liveability and makes the Peninsula an even better place to call home!

Have your say

Community consultation is currently open and runs until 24 November.

To participate, visit mornpen.vic.gov.au/aceplan or attend one of our community sessions:

• Dromana Market (Dromana Recreation Reserve, 359B Point Nepean Road)
  Saturday 25 October, 8:30am – 1:30pm
• Mt Eliza Sunday Market (Cnr Mt Eliza Way &, Canadian Bay Rd)
  Sunday 26 October, 9am – 12pm
• Mornington Main Street Market (118-120 Main St, opposite Cotton On)
  Wednesday 29 October, 9am – 2pm
• Hill and Ridge Community Market (Red Hill Show Grounds, 184 Arthurs Seat Rd)
  Saturday 1 November, 9am – 2pm
• Coolart House Annual Picnic (40 Lord Somers Rd Somers)
  Sunday 2 November 2025, 12 – 4pm
• Sorrento Info Centre (38 Ocean Beach Rd)
  Wednesday 5 November, 9am – 12pm
• Bittern Community Market (Bittern Railway Station)
  Sunday 9 November, 9am – 2pm

Quotes attributable to Mayor Councillor Anthony Marsh:
 
“Arts, culture and events are a big part of what makes the Peninsula such a vibrant place to live and visit. They create opportunities for local people and help bring our communities together.
 
This Plan is about understanding what our community values most and how Council can best support that, whether it’s major events that showcase the region or smaller local activities that celebrate our unique character. I encourage everyone to get involved and share their ideas to help shape the future of arts, culture and events on the Peninsula.”