There is a huge array of nutritious and delicious Asian vegetables that thrive in Melbourne over autumn and winter. 

Come along and learn from Connie Cao, passionate home gardener and author of 'My Asian Veggie Patch' about how to grow, care for, harvest and cook with these unique herbs and vegetables.

The seminar begins at 6.30pm, or join us from 6.15pm for our monthly food swap, where you can bring and trade homegrown produce, cuttings, seeds, gardening magazines, jars, ferments and more!

About Home Harvest: Home Harvest is a free, complete home gardening program that runs monthly from February to December. It aims to educate and inspire residents to grow their own organic, nutritious and delicious produce at home. The series hosts seminars, question and answer time, on-site activities and food swaps! 

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Home Harvest Manningham is a monthly home gardening seminar series that will teach you how to grow your own delicious fresh food at home.

Karen Sutherland from Edible Eden Design will talk about the best way to maintain and prune your fruit trees during winter for long lasting thriving fruit trees. 

Food swap from 6.45pm, session starts at 7.00pm.

Registration is recommended but not required.

This event is part of our Inspired Living Series. This series showcases an exciting range of fun and sustainable activities and events for all ages, supporting sustainability at home, in the community and at work.

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Keep up to date with our latest environment and sustainability events.

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In celebration of International Permaculture Day, join Kat Lavers, a renowned permaculturist and owner of iconic garden 'The Plummery', to explore the incredible world of edible perennials beyond rhubarb, artichokes and asparagus. We will also discuss how to maximise yields through clever crop choice and parts of plants you may not realise are edible (and delicious).

The seminar begins at 6.30pm, or join us from 6.15pm for our monthly food swap, where you can bring and trade homegrown produce, cuttings, seeds, gardening magazines, jars, ferments and more!

About Home Harvest: Home Harvest is a free, complete home gardening program that runs monthly from February to December. It aims to educate and inspire residents to grow their own organic, nutritious and delicious produce at home. The series hosts seminars, question and answer time, on-site activities and food swaps! 

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Keep up to date with our latest environment and sustainability events.

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Come along and learn from market gardener and passionate seed saver, Julie Bennett from Montalto Kitchen Gardener and Seeds are free. 

In this session, we'll cover the incredible world of seeds, while also discussing tips, tricks and techniques for how to successfully save your own seed – year after year. This will save you money while preserving heritage seeds and maintaining the genetic diversity and local adaptations of our food crops.

This seminar begins at 6.15pm. Please bring along any saved or excess seeds for a seed swap party afterwards! Please ensure your seeds are correctly labelled (envelopes will be provided).

About Home Harvest: Home Harvest is a free, complete home gardening program that runs monthly from February to December. It aims to educate and inspire residents to grow their own organic, nutritious and delicious produce at home. The series hosts seminars, question and answer time, on-site activities and food swaps!

Subscribe to our Environment Newsletter

Keep up to date with our latest environment and sustainability events.

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Home Harvest Manningham is a monthly home gardening seminar series that will teach you how to grow your own delicious fresh food at home.

This month Maria Ciavarella from My Green Garden will show you how to preserve home grown tomatoes.

The session will cover the art and science of:

• bottling (jars of peeled tomatoes)
• pickling (green tomato pickle)
• making a sauce (ketchup style)
• dehydrating (dried tomatoes)
• preserving using a process that requires no electricity,  smoke or steam.

Registration is recommended but not required.

This event is part of our Inspired Living Series. This series showcases an exciting range of fun and sustainable activities and events for all ages, supporting sustainability at home, in the community and at work.

Subscribe to our Environment Newsletter

Keep up to date with our latest environment and sustainability events.

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Join us for an engaging seminar where we'll delve into the fascinating world of fungi with expert Dr. Alison Pouliot. 

The earth’s rapidly changing climate and environmental issues have come into sharp focus through the demise of charismatic megafauna and the ‘biodiversity crisis’. But what about stinkhorns and slime moulds? How do fungi and their kin get our attention when they are not only overshadowed by more ‘popular’ organisms, but are rarely included in our ideas about ‘nature’ or ‘biodiversity’?

The good news is it seems we’re in something of a ‘fungal awakening’ and mushrooms are finally having their moment. Over the last 25 years Alison has divided her time between hemispheres, working both with fungi and their followers. She has been actively involved in fungal conservation and land restoration programs.

In this talk Alison will explore how fungi are perceived across hemispheres in conservation contexts and which fungal flagships best capture the public imagination. She will also share some stories from the writing of her recent book, Underground Lovers – Encounters with Fungi in which she interacted with fungi and their followers across a dozen countries.

There will be an opportunity at the end for participants to show their specimens or purchase books.

Booking essential: Limited to 50 people.

About the Presenter

Alison Pouliot, BA (Philosophy), BSc Hons (Zoology), PhD (Ecology/Mycology).

Alison is an ecologist, environmental photographer and author and has presented over 800 environmental seminars, forays and workshops in Australia and internationally.

Seminar field trip

Attending this event will enable you to attend the Seminar field trip: Meeting with mushrooms.

• Date: Thursday 30 May 2024
• Time: 9.00am to 11.30am

This exciting field trip introduces participants to the diversity, ecology and curiosities of the Kingdom Fungi, specific to fungi found in the region and its various habitat types.

Participants will learn some of the basic skills used to identify fungi in the field using multiple senses. The relationships between fungi and various plant species and different habitat types will be discussed. Every fungus has intriguing natural and cultural histories and stories, and these will be shared along the way.

Interested participants will be sent a registration link.

MBN’s December Business Breakfast has two exciting elements - an interactive mini-trade show themed networking session and a motivational keynote address.

What better way to close our year than by celebrating our successes and kick starting our New Year plans!

Our morning’s networking process encourages open interaction, where members and guests can mingle and chat – and sell the benefits of their business.  

Tabletop space will be available for MBN member’s brochures and special offer flyers – to help start that important conversation leading to lasting connections.

The Manningham Business Network Inc. (MBN) is your local business network that is open to all small and medium businesses in the Manningham area. 

We are funding in person energy advice consultations to help residents make the switch to an all-electric home. The sessions are one-on-one with a qualified energy adviser, and will run for 20 minutes.

 ​On behalf of Manningham Council, Caroline Burgess from Be Comfy will be delivering the consultations. ​These sessions are available at no cost to Manningham residents.

A 20 minute one-on-one advice session can help you:

• discuss ways to make the switch from gas to electricity in your home, tailored to your budget and situation
• reduce your energy use, understand your energy bill, or review your energy plan
• access basic advice on a specific energy efficiency issue.

As Christmas approaches, thoughts often go to choosing that lovely cuddly pet for you, your family or a loved one. But we all know that sometimes things don't work out as we planned.

Discover how selecting the right pet. one that suits you and your lifestyle, can greatly enhance the joy and enrichment that comes from inviting that new family member into your home.

This session is presented by Friends of Manningham Dogs and Cats (FOMDAC) with special guest Dr. Kevin Foster. Dr. Foster is the founder of Vets in Melbourne (Vets on Parker), and a former TV presenter on Animal Extra on TEN and Pets Practice with Dr. Kevin.

A light supper will be provided.

COVID-19 UPDATE: In light of the Victorian Government's announcement, Doncare has made the decision to postpone the Empowered Women, Empowering Women charity luncheon. The circuit breaker may have temporarily tripped our plans to host the event on the 4 June, but rest assured we are working busily behind the scenes with Jane Caro and Bramleigh Estate to reschedule the event.  

We are committed to creating the best possible experience for all of our guests and whilst we would love you to hang in there with us while we navigate the next few weeks and determine a new date, we do want to provide you with the flexibility to obtain a refund, should you wish to do so.  In order to initiate a refund request, please email martine.corbett@doncare.org.au.

Doncare would like to take this opportunity to thank our fabulous sponsors, Bendigo Bank, Bramleigh Estate, 89.9 The Light, Kinexus, Quintons IGA and Woodards.  Your support of this fundraising initiative is sincerely appreciated.  

Join Jane Caro at the Empowered Women, Empowering Women charity luncheon. Enjoy a three course meal and wine at the stunning Bramleigh Estate and hear from one of Australia's most influential social commentators.

Across the global stage, women's empowerment continues to be a common theme uniting communities and Jane Caro AM is a woman known for saying what's on her mind.

The author, novelist, broadcaster, columnist and social commentator is a weekly regular on Channel Seven's 'Weekend Sunrise' and 'Mornings' on Channel Nine. Jane appears frequently on the ABC's 'Q&A' and 'The Drum', Network Ten's 'The Project' and Channel Nine's 'Sunrise'. She is also a regular panelist on the ABC's top-rating show The Gruen Transfer and a regular columnist for MamaMia, The Conversation, MT magazine, the SMH and The Drum.

#ewew2021 is set to emulate the success of the inaugural charity luncheon which boasted a stellar line-up including comedian and radio personality Jo Stanley, 2015 Australian of the Year, Dr Rosie Batty and award-winning designer and TV personality Shaynna Blaze. In fact, we've invited Jo Stanley back this year to host the event because we know how much you loved her! Rosie has even promised to join us again for what promises to be another fabulous afternoon. Get ready to get empowered!

All funds raised support Doncare

Doncare is a not-for-profit community services organisation that has operated in the Manningham community since 1969. Doncare provides counselling for families and children in crisis; prevention, support and recovery following family violence; specialist intake and risk assessment; integrated family services; case management; emergency relief; social support for seniors and financial and material aid.

All guests receive:

General entry a three course banquet meal unlimited drinks (including beer, wine and soft drinks) live entertainment including key note speakers

Getting There

Bramleigh Estate is located at 420a Ringwood-Warrandyte Road, Warrandyte Victoria 3113.  There is parking available at the venue.

Should you wish to travel by public transport, Bus 364 departs from Eastland Shopping Centre/Ringwood Street, Ringwood. The bus journey takes approximately 24 minutes and Bramleigh Estate is approximately a 68 metre walk from the Harding Rd/Ringwood-Warrandyte Rd bus stop. (Warrandyte).  Please visit Public Transport Victoria or download the PTV app. for more information.

Events Partners

Proudly supported by Bramleigh Estate and Bendigo Bank's Doncaster East and Templestowe Village Community Bank branches.

Since its inception in 1969, Doncare – Doncaster Community Care and Counselling Centre Inc. – has provided support to enhance the quality of life of people living in the Manningham and surrounding communities.

Community organisations in Manningham are invited to attend this free grant writing workshop.

This session will help grant writers to improve their success rate in grant applications.

It will cover:

• why communicating the value of your project is a good starting point
• understanding funding outcomes and how the project will align with these
• being able to define the project and the benefit it will have for the community
• knowing what is great about your organisation and the reason a community group or non-profit can deliver this project
• understanding grant eligibility criteria
• formulating the project plan and the resources required
• preparing the budget

It is suitable for those who want to apply for our Community Grants Program and have projects under $20,000 with simple specifications.

Non Profit Training will deliver the workshop.

Home Harvest Manningham is a monthly home gardening seminar series that will teach you how to grow your own delicious fresh food at home.

Join urban food garden specialist Kat Lavers from The Plummery as she discusses garden tools and infrastructure.

The session will cover:

• alternatives to pots
• stakes
• shade cloth
• nets
• buckets
• ties
• and what to look out for in hard rubbish, skips and op shops.

Kat will also cover which tools are worth investing a few dollars in, and how to look after them.

Food swap from 6.45pm, session starts at 7.00pm.

Registration is recommended but not required.

This event is part of our Inspired Living Series. This series showcases an exciting range of fun and sustainable activities and events for all ages, supporting sustainability at home, in the community and at work.

Subscribe to our Environment Newsletter

Keep up to date with our latest environment and sustainability events.

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Home Harvest Manningham is a monthly home gardening seminar series that will teach you how to grow your own delicious fresh food at home.

In this comprehensive program, Sustainable Gardening Australia will cover everything you need to know about preparing your garden (in Spring) for a bumper summer harvest.

Part 2 will cover:

• garden maintenance and preparation
• selecting what to plant and when to plant it
• summer veggies in pots
• mulching
• smart watering and managing hot weather
• introducing sustainable ways to improve productivity
• starting with seeds and seedlings
• tips for sustainably avoiding and managing pests and diseases
• feeding the soil and summer crops.

Food swap from 6.45pm, session starts at 7.00pm.

This event is part of our Inspired Living Series. This series showcases an exciting range of fun and sustainable activities and events for all ages, supporting sustainability at home, in the community and at work.

Subscribe to our Environment Newsletter

Keep up to date with our latest environment and sustainability events.

Subscribe now

Join Caroline Parker, herbalist, gardener and author of 'The Medicinal Garden', to discuss how to grow and use medicinal herbs to support a healthy diet and combat colds this winter!

From edible treats to therapeutic remedies, we will unearth the healing potential of both wild and cultivated plants. We will discuss several easy ways to grow medicinal plants and learn how to establish and maintain a planted or potted garden – full of natural remedies for your skin, gut, muscles, heart and mind. You'll also learn how to make oils, tinctures, compresses, steams and washes for health and healing.

The seminar begins at 6.30pm, or join us from 6.15pm for our monthly food swap, where you can bring and trade homegrown produce, cuttings, seeds, gardening magazines, jars, ferments and more!

About Home Harvest: Home Harvest is a free, complete home gardening program that runs monthly from February to December. It aims to educate and inspire residents to grow their own organic, nutritious and delicious produce at home. The series hosts seminars, question and answer time, on-site activities and food swaps! 

Subscribe to our Environment Newsletter

Keep up to date with our latest environment and sustainability events.

Subscribe now

Come along to celebrate the launch of our 2025 Inspired Living Series with a panel of two inspiring local storytellers and eco-adventurers!

Beau Miles

Beau is a father, YouTuber, author of The Backyard Adventurer, wannabe farmer and maker of stuff from other people's junk. Known for oddball storytelling that aims to turn seemingly mundane or silly ideas into things that are enjoyable, challenging and insightful. Beau is known for his ‘Backyard Adventurer’ philosophy of connecting people with their local heritage, history and environment.

Cezary Carmichael (Two Birders Two Bikes One School)

Cezary is a 19-year-old filmmaker and student who recently completed a year-long journey on his bike around Australia to fund the development of a school in Timor-Leste (raising more than $120,000). His upcoming documentary will explore the cultural and ecological significance of birds in Australia and the importance of storytelling and communication in fostering community.

Inspired Living Series – keynote speaker events

Our 2025 Inspired Living Series showcases five insightful, not-to-be-missed evenings. The series will introduce you to a diverse lineup of local keynote speakers who will offer unique insights on embracing sustainability.

Topics range from sustainable food to low waste lifestyles. Each speaker will share their journey – inspiring our audience to embrace positive choices, nurture a connection to nature, and strengthen their community for a stronger, more resilient future.

Registration for this event is required.

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Come along to find out how you can electrify everything to improve your home environment, and ease the burden on your budget.

This webinar will explore essential transition areas including:

• why an all-electric home
• the benefits of getting off gas
• which items need attention
• how to plan your transition
• what assistance and rebates are available.

Our presenter, Ian Moxon, is a seasoned sustainability consultant with over 15 years of experience in this field. He’ll share his extensive knowledge and valuable industry insights into the benefits of changing to an all-electric home.

This event is part of our Inspired Living Series. This series showcases an exciting range of fun and sustainable activities and events for all ages, supporting sustainability at home, in the community and at work.

Bookings are essential.

We’ve opened our final exhibition for the year! 

Showcasing moving image artworks by Australian artists, this exhibition celebrates ACMI’s vibrant collecting and commissioning program.

Come and see the exciting new works at Manningham Art Gallery, Doncaster. Open until February 2024.

Ngura Pukulpa - Happy Place by Kaylene Whiskey

Yankunytjatjara artist Kaylene Whiskey envisions a world where pop culture collides with traditional Anangu culture.

Analects of Kung Phu: Book 1, The 69 Dialogues between the Lamp and the Shadow by Jason Phu 

Jason Phu presents us with a guide for surviving contemporary life through the lens of martial arts films.

The Gods of Tiny Things by Deborah Kelly

Deborah Kelly’s kaleidoscopic video unleashes a vivid collage of animated figures and landscapes cut free from the pages of old magazines and encyclopedias to explore the threats of extinction and the climate crisis, the tolls of colonialism, and the global political shift to the right. 

The Beehive by Zanny Begg

The Beehive is a non-linear experimental documentary exploring the unsolved murder of Sydney anti-development campaigner Juanita Nielsen.

Gaps by David Rosetzky

Gaps embodies Rosetzky’s ongoing exploration of personal identity and the relationship – or ‘gaps’ – between self and other through speech, movement and dance.

Bayi Gardiya - Singing Desert by Dr Christian Thompson AO​​

Open on Thursday 1 February and Friday 2 February 2024 from 10.00am to 2.00pm at Doncaster Library. To experience this 360-degree work, please visit the Creative Lab located on the mezzanine floor of Doncaster Library, accessible via the lift in the junior area. There will be a staff member there to assist. Suitable for all ages. 

In this 360-degree video experience, Christian Thompson invites audiences to walk through the landscape of his childhood where they witness a simple yet profound aesthetic gesture of the artist singing in his traditional Bidjara language, a recognised lost language.

Photo caption: Kaylene Whiskey, Ngura Pukulpa – Happy Place, 2021. Between the Details: Video Art from the ACMI Collection. Image courtesy of Kaylene Whiskey and Iwantja Arts.

Photo: Max Mackinnon

An ACMI touring exhibition
The works in this exhibition are commissioned by ACMI, Artbank, Bundanon Trust, Carriageworks, City of Melbourne, Melbourne Art Foundation, Professor Cav. Simon Mordant AO and Catriona Mordant AM, John Allsopp (Web Directions) and assisted by the Australian Government through the Australia Council for the Arts.