This month, we attended a Gender and Disaster Australia workshop to learn how gender, culture, and connection shape recovery. At Mums of the Hills, we’re strengthening our network to make sure no one is left isolated when it matters most.

Your vote matters — not just for today, but for the future our children will live in.

Missed the Casey Candidates Forum? The recording is now online. We’ve also shared a few reflections on the bigger issues missing from this election conversation.

When young Parsa went missing in the Olinda bushland late Friday night, our community rallied without hesitation. In the face of fear and uncertainty, differences were set aside and compassion took the lead. From search parties in the cold to the steady flow of support online, it was a powerful reminder of the strength we hold together.

Even if you couldn’t be there physically, the way our group helped keep information clear, calm and caring made a real difference. And a special thanks goes to Asher, the incredible teen who found Parsa safe.

It’s moments like these that show what community truly means.

From endless crying to sleepless nights, early motherhood can be overwhelming. That’s why we’re proud to host free ABA Drop-In & Chat sessions at the MotHs Hub. Whether you're breastfeeding, bottle-feeding, or somewhere in between—come for a cuppa, stay for the support.

It all started at the edge of the Monbulk swimming pool—dripping wet, wrapped in a towel, and nervously asking other mums if they'd like to join a little online group I’d started. I had no idea that awkward moment would spark something so much bigger.

What began as a side hustle to help cover swimming lessons grew into a thriving community of local mums—and the small businesses that support them.

This is the story behind Mums of the Hills, why small business is about more than income, and how quiet courage and connection can grow into a movement.

Read the full story and see why our Business Directory is more than just a list—it’s a lifeline.

With all the talk about ditching social media, it’s easy to forget that some online spaces genuinely do good — and for many mums, our private group is one of them.

Whether it’s navigating tough relationships, parenting challenges, or simply finding the best bakery in town (yes, that matters too!), Mums of the Hills is a lifeline. These conversations don’t go viral — they go deep. They remind us what’s possible when tech meets trust, purpose, and a whole lot of heart.

In our latest blog, we explore why online support matters — and how communities like MotHs don’t just happen. They’re built, protected, and nurtured by the incredible people behind the scenes (shoutout to our powerhouse moderators 💛).

Four candidates vying for the federal seat of Casey—Merran Blair (Greens), Aaron Violi (Liberal Party), Naomi Oakley (Australian Labor Party), and Claire Ferris-Miles (Independent)—recently participated in a community forum where they outlined their key policies and addressed pressing local issues. The discussion covered a range of topics, including cost of living, gendered violence, childcare, telecommunications, and climate change.

February was a big month for us at Mums of the Hills (MotHs). From providing self-defense classes to meaningful political engagement and valuable parenting support, we’ve been busy making an impact! Here’s a look at what we accomplished this month:

We know that when mums are supported, families are stronger. When families are stronger, communities thrive. That’s why we are pushing for change—advocating for recognition, resources, and real solutions.

Back in November, Belinda traveled to Sydney to discuss the housing crisis, and last weekend, 100 everyday Australians took it one step further. They did what politicians have failed to do: engage in a serious, solutions-driven debate to determine what will truly make a difference.

This is our personal account of a global issue and its impact on individuals and families within our community. Misinformation and disinformation are not just broad societal concerns; they affect real people, real conversations, and real decisions made in groups like Mums of the Hills Inc.

Postnatal care is one of the most important, yet often overlooked, aspects of healthcare. For many mums, the weeks and months after birth can be a mix of exhaustion, recovery, and emotional highs and lows.

However, the 2023 Victorian Women’s Health Survey and the Mums of the Hills 2024 survey have made it clear: many women are struggling to access the postnatal care they need due to cost, availability, and a lack of awareness.

The Climate Council’s latest report, Too Close to Home, presents alarming evidence of the increasing frequency and severity of climate-fuelled disasters in Australia. Among the hardest-hit regions, the Yarra Ranges has experienced significant climate-related disasters since 2019/20, highlighting the urgent need for sustained focus on climate change.

Finding childcare has become one of the biggest concerns for parents of young children in Casey, exacerbating everyday stresses and curtailing any attempts to provide additional income at a time when interest rates and the cost of living have skyrocketed.

It's easy to see why we love living in the Yarra Ranges, but as the federal election approaches, residents are keen for their voices to be heard on key topics that affect our community. These topics, including housing, childcare, climate change, infrastructure, road safety, and gendered violence, significantly impact the local community's well-being and way of life.

January was a big month for advocacy at MotHs, with key meetings and events helping us strengthen connections and amplify the voices of our community. From attending events at Government House to inviting Premier Jacinta Allan to the Dandenong Ranges, we’ve been working hard to put local issues on the agenda.

As we prepare to welcome 2025, it’s time to look back on all we’ve achieved together in 2024. This year has been one of immense growth, collaboration, and community building. From empowering events to meaningful initiatives, our shared efforts have created ripples of positivity across the Hills.

Let’s celebrate the highlights of 2024 and look ahead to an even brighter 2025!

As we wrap up the 2023/24 community grant funding cycle, we’re filled with pride and gratitude for everything we’ve achieved together. These funds have enabled us to create meaningful, inclusive, and empowering events that brought our community closer while making a positive impact. Let’s take a moment to reflect on these incredible initiatives and the difference they’ve made.

As we step into 2025, we thought you’d like to know the diverse range of events and initiatives planned designed to empower, educate, and connect our community.

What makes Mums of the Hills private online community special? Easy - it’s the members who believe in the culture and take responsibility for it. There is much more to it though. With the news of changes to the social media laws for our teens this week, Dr Belinda Young discusses some key skills that we all need to maintain a safe and supportive online space.