Celebrating history and sport
Published on 28 January 2026
Great history and a love for sport are just some of the things I love about Hobsons Bay, and my ward of Williamstown.
Recently, I was lucky enough to have had the chance to celebrate both at once.
It was my privilege to join members of Williamstown’s Liston Tennis Club as they commemorated the club’s centenary.
It was great to hear about the club’s rich history, listen to stories from members and experience first-hand the passion that exists within their club community.
It’s great to see how the club is so inclusive and welcoming, highlighted by their hosting of a tennis event for blind players to coincide with the Australian Open.
Sport plays such an important role in our community, bringing people together and fostering a sense of belonging, so congratulations to Liston Tennis Club on their special milestone.
In February, sport clubs and other community-minded groups and organisations will have the chance to put their hand up for Council grants to support the great work they do.
Council’s Make it Happen grants program opens on 2 February, with $495,000 in funding available.
The program provides funding to support our community to ‘make things happen’
Groups can apply for grants to cover costs of things like equipment and resources (up to $1,500), community projects (up to $15,000) or events and festivals (up to $25,000).
The program can provide opportunities across many sectors, including environment, sustainability, sport, recreation, arts and culture, heritage, health and wellbeing, multicultural, technology and more .
Applications close at 1pm on Monday 30 March. To find out more information, including guidelines, tips, case studies of successful applications and how to apply, visit hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au/grants. Council officers are also available to answer any questions you might have.
And a quick reminder that there’s plenty happening across Hobsons Bay this summer to enjoy.
Movies by the Bay screenings include Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere at Williamstown’s Commonwealth Reserve along with a tribute band in February. While talking music, don’t forget the Our Hood Spotswood Summer Series kicks off at Hudsons Road in February, while Summer Sounds will bring the tunes to Altona’s Logan Reserve on 14 February.