Building CERES: Past Lessons, Future Impact

A rare conversation about CERES’ beginnings – and how that guides us on where we go next.

You’re invited to a special evening exploring the earliest years of CERES with some of the people who helped turn an idea into reality.

Hosted by Genevieve Timmons, this open conversation looks back to the late 1970s when a small group of determined locals, working across councils, universities, community groups and government, stepped up to build something bold on the banks of the Merri Creek.

Along with people who were there in the first 5 years, we’ll be uncovering the story behind CERES coming to life: the challenges, the unexpected breakthroughs, the mistakes, the values that kept the purpose on track, and the community spirit that carried CERES into being.

It’s an opportunity to understand the alchemy that shaped CERES, and to consider what it means for our next chapter in 2025 and beyond, under our new 50-year lease.

Along with your interest and recollections, please bring any photos or pieces of CERES history if you have them.

The CERES AGM, held just prior in the same space will be members-only.

Join us for an evening of stories, lessons and shared history – to help inform the CERES we keep building from 2025 onwards.

CERES Board and Management