The Westsider: February, 2026

Explore how the Bug Rug site continues to grow and bring community joy through biodiversity and local engagement.

Undertaken by Footscray Community Response, a grassroots organisation opposed to punitive solutions to problems of safety and so-called ‘anti-social behaviour’, the research also reveals serious breaches of human rights and anti-discrimination laws.

Read about the strong local community campaign that saved Techno Park residents from eviction.

Discover how a simple program with profound results is improving children's literacy by encouraging reading to dogs.

Find out how creating an energy-positive, cosy, healthy home contributes to a sense of belonging for displaced families.

After a successful career in the banking and funeral industries, and a continuing life-long passion for playing and scoring music, Clive Pattie now convenes music classes at Altona’s University of the Third Age. 

The Queen Garnet plum is being trialled for its efficacy as a topical treatment for eczema. You may be able to participate in this important research.

Visit the Community Bank Seddon to view the eclectic colourful paintings of the Newport artist.

Reviews this month are: We Bury the Dead, Wuthering Heights, Epic: Elvis Presley in Concert and The Testament of Ann Lee.

This month's reviews are Crikey Roo and the Riddler, and The Long Night.