News

Sorry not part of democracy

An internal review of the Picturing Democracy exhibition has raised more questions than it answered, prompting calls for further scrutiny. TWiSK reports on the likelihood of a review of the review.

Read more

Does housing trump local say in planning?

Tension was on display last week at Council, when three councillors abstained from a motion opposing increased state planning interventions. TWiSK explores the background and motivations of both sides.

Read more

Not‑so‑happy anniversary

The sprawling encampment near the Junction Oval, on Parks Victoria land adjacent to the culturally significant Ngargee Tree, has now been there for over a year. No matter how you look at it, it’s a situation that can’t be ignored.

Read more

Construction finally starts at Grosvenor St housing project

It’s big, it’s modern, it’s part of the Victorian Big Housing Build Program — and it’s finally under construction. But spare a thought for the former social housing residents who were abruptly relocated in 2023 to make way for progress. TWiSK reports on the long‑running saga.

Read more

Nest box damage alarms volunteers

“Confidential” moves by Bayside Council have sparked alarm among volunteers at the Yalukit Willam Nature Reserve in Elsternwick. TWiSK reports ahead of next Tuesday’s Bayside Council meeting, where the volunteer association’s lease is listed as a confidential item.

Read more

Who’s Marking Housing First’s Homework?

The proposed sale of 25 social housing units in the Oasis project on Greeves Street has brought to light serious questions about the governance of HousingFirst. TWiSK asks if anybody is marking HousingFirst’s homework?

Read more

Bin fire vs hope at Prahran launch

An enthusiastic crowd gathered at The Prahran Hotel on Saturday to launch the Greens’ bid to reclaim the Prahran electorate with second-time candidate Angelica Di Camillo. TWiSK was there as an observer.

Read more

St Kilda Festival feedback mixed

Love it or loath it, the St Kilda Festival is a big deal. It draws a crowd, fills the bars and markets St Kilda as a good time destination. We’re not sure how much it costs, but it’s a big slab of Council’s overall festival budget. Council will vote on the next Festival in June.

Read more

Astor marks 90 beautiful years

St Kilda’s Astor Theatre has reached a major milestone, celebrating 90 years of continuous operation while also earning a place among the world’s most beautiful cinemas.

Read more

The Age picks up Oasis selloff story

Reporting in The Age inspired by TWiSK coverage of the Inkerman Oasis sell-off by Housing First has thrust the spotlight on how council is powerless to influence the sale despite gifting the land 25 years ago.

Read more