Blessing of the Waters Festival 2026

A Happy New Year to everyone.

The annual Greek Orthodox Blessing of the Waters ceremony will be held on Princes Pier this coming Sunday 11th January from 1pm. The throwing of the Holy Cross will be held as part of the Blessing of the Waters Festival.

From 2pm, there will be entertainment for families and children of all ages, as well as Greek food and market stalls.

Click/tap here for further details.

New Management at Westgate Park

Janet Bolitho has alerted us to a change in management of Westgate Park from 1 January 2026. The City of Melbourne takes over management from Parks Victoria.

The City of Melbourne describes Westgate Park as “a 36-hectare open space comprising wetlands, woodlands and indigenous flora and fauna. It is located along the eastern banks of the Yarra River – Birrarung under the Westgate Bridge, between Wharf Road and Todd Road in Port Melbourne, and along a narrow 1km strip between the river and Lorimer Street in Fishermans Bend. One third of Westgate Park is wetlands, including its recognisable salt lake, a freshwater lake with a large island, a dam as well as lagoons and ponds dotted throughout, connected by shared trails.” Click/tap here for further information about the park, things to do and park guidelines.

The change in management has been welcomed by volunteers who care and assist in maintaining the park.