VicHealth and Victorian Local Government Partnership
Through the Victorian Local Government Partnership (VLGP) in partnership with VicHealth, Mornington Peninsula Shire has delivered a series of creative, youth-focused initiatives that strengthen mental wellbeing, foster social connection, and expand pathways for young people in the arts. VicHealth believes in the transformative power of the arts as a vehicle for positive health outcomes in our local community.
A key project is the Young Creators Mentorship Program, delivered in 2023 and 2025 which pairs emerging young artists with professional mentors across the arts. By offering mentorship, tailored skill development, and industry exposure, the program reduces barriers to participation and empowers young people to build confidence, networks, and creative careers. Mentees have experienced mentorships in jewellery, graphic design, watercolour painting, photography, weaving, illustration and painting.
‘Dear Izaak’, a locally produced film led by a young filmmaker Eliza Knaggs, explores themes of grief, identity, and young men’s mental health. This project amplifies youth storytelling, promotes understanding of LGBTQIA+ experiences, and contributes to community awareness and connection through authentic creative expression. 20 young people worked on this film, with 13 of them being 25 and under. ‘Dear Izaak’ was shot on the Mornington Peninsula, including Rye Ocean Beach and McCrae foreshore.
The Shire’s Creative & Cultural Careers Hub complements these initiatives by providing accessible information, professional development, and resources to help young people navigate the creative industries. Interviews with Wendy Orr, Leyla Bulmer, Skyla Lauch, Max Johnson and Tulliah Goldsworthy highlight the rich talent on the Mornington Peninsula, whilst providing inspiration for young people to pursue creative careers.
Together, these VLGP-supported projects demonstrate how creativity can drive wellbeing, inclusion, and meaningful youth engagement across the Mornington Peninsula.