Melton City Girls Can

two women smiling and having fun together during a dance class

Melton City Council is proud to launch Melton City Girls Can (MCGC) in April 2025. MCGC will celebrate, support and create new opportunities for people who identify as women and girls in the City of Melton to participate in sport and active recreation.

Inspired by VicHealth’s This Girl Can campaign and delivered in partnership with local sports clubs and community groups, MCGC aims to enable women and girls to get active in ways that work for them. Whether it’s a little or a lot, what matters is moving your body and having fun - on your own terms, in your own way.

Why Melton City Girls Can? 

Evidence shows that women and girls participate in organised sport at significantly lower rates than men and boys. Research tells us that girls drop out of community sport at twice the rate of boys by the time they are teenagers.

Many women hesitate to try new activities because of fear of judgement or feeling like they’re not “fit enough” to start. In fact, women are twice as likely as men to put off getting active because they worry about what others might think or feel unwelcome in sport and recreation environments.

MCGC will look to break down these stereotypes, build confidence and create inclusive and welcoming spaces for all. Whether it's your first time trying something new or returning to a sport or activity that you love, this is for you!

Events

Join us for events and workshops  

Mind & Body: Empowering Women Through Movement

Over a 60-minute period, you’ll be guided by our friendly tutor Ferial through a soothing blend of guided movement, breathwork, and reflective practices. A combination of yoga-inspired exercise, meditation and journalling will allow you to switch off from the business of your life and simply be present in the moment.  

This session will conclude with a warm cup of tea and catered refreshments where you’ll be invited to connect with the group, if you feel called to. 

This safe and inclusive space is designed for you to move your body and to feel seen, heard, and empowered to build your confidence and connect with others. Whether you’re feeling a little disconnected, navigating life’s challenges, or simply seeking a moment of calm, this session is perfect for you. 

Suitable for adult women of all abilities, no experience necessary. Please bring a yoga mat and water bottle. 

WhereMount Atkinson Children's & Community Centre, 60 Clara Avenue, Truganina, 3029
When: April 29, 2025, 12:30 pm - April 29, 2025, 2pm
Book now

 

 

Come & Try: Taekwando for Girls | Tuesdays

As part of the Melton City Girls Can campaign this April, come along to Melton South Community Centre to try Taekwando for FREE! This is an opportunity to give something new a go, move your body in a fun and interesting way and meet other like-minded girls!

The workshop will be delivered in two parts over two weeks and will be facilitated by Paul from Harmonious Dojang Australia. Make sure to bring your drink bottle and wear comfortable clothing that allows you to move your body freely.

Registrations are essential and can be made by calling the centre on 9747 8576 on weekdays between 9:30am and 4:30pm.

The program is for girls aged 8-14 years.

When: April 22, 2025, 5:30 pm - April 22, 2025, 6:30 pm
Where: Melton South Community Centre, 41 Exford Road, Melton South, 3338
Book now

 

Come & Try: Taekwando for Girls | Wednesdays

As part of the Melton City Girls Can campaign this April, come along to Melton South Community Centre to try Taekwando for FREE! This is an opportunity to give something new a go, move your body in a fun and interesting way and meet other like-minded girls!

The workshop will be delivered in two parts over two weeks and will be facilitated by Paul from Harmonious Dojang Australia. Make sure to bring your drink bottle and wear comfortable clothing that allows you to move your body freely.

Registrations are essential and can be made by calling the centre on 9747 8576 on weekdays between 9:30am and 4:30pm.

The program is for girls aged 8-14 years.

When: April 23, 2025, 5:30 pm - April 23, 2025, 6:30 pm
 
Where: Melton South Community Centre, 41 Exford Road, Melton South, 3338
Book now

 

Come & Try: Cricket for Girls

As part of the Melton City Girls Can campaign this April, Sydenham Hillside Storm Cricket Club is hosting a FREE “Come Try Cricket” event for girls of all ages. This session is designed to introduce girls to cricket through fun, skill-based activities. It is a great opportunity for beginners to get involved in the sport in a friendly and supportive environment.

All equipment will be provided and soft balls will be used. Please bring a drink bottle and wear comfortable clothing and footwear that allow you to move you to freely move your body.

Please feel free to bring a friend or sibling along with you to try this exciting activity!

Bookings are required for these sessions.

When: April 7, 2025, 5:30 pm - April 7, 2025, 7pm
Where: Hillside Recreation Reserve, Royal Crescent Hillside Victoria
Book now

 

Come & Try: Tennis for Junior Girls

As part of the Melton City Girls Can campaign this April, Hillside Tennis Club is running a FREE girls tennis development squad over four weeks.  This 1-hour program provides an opportunity for girls aged 8 years and over to try out tennis at no cost in a fun and supportive environment.

The program will be run by Hillside Tennis Club’s Head Coach and is tailored specifically for girls, focusing on developing new skills, tactics and strategies to help improve your overall tennis game whilst having fun.

All equipment will be provided. Please bring a drink bottle and wear comfortable clothing and footwear that allow you to move you to freely move your body.

Bookings are required for these sessions. 

When: April 22, 2025, 5:30 pm - April 22, 2025, 6:30 pm
Where: Hillside Tennis Club - Parkwood Green Reserve, Community Hub, Hillside Victoria
 
Book now

 

Come & Try: Cardio Tennis for Women

As part of the Melton City Girls Can campaign this April, Caroline Springs Tennis Club will be running a FREE cardio tennis session for women! Whether you’re a beginner, intermediate or pro, you’re welcome to join the Women’s cardio tennis session and have fun while getting fit.

The program will start with a 45 minute cardio session followed by nibbles and refreshments in the Club House afterwards. Numbers are limited, so please register your interest as soon as possible.

The program is for women and girls aged 13 years and over.

All equipment will be provided. Please bring a drink bottle and wear comfortable clothing and footwear that allow you to move you to freely move your body.

Bookings are required for this session. 

WhenTuesday 8 April, 7pm -8.30pm 
Where: Caroline Springs Tennis Club, 9-19 The Parade, Caroline Springs, Victoria

Book now

 

 

Come & Try: Target Shooting for Women

As part of the Melton City Girls Can campaign this April, Melton Pistol Club are inviting women to come and try Target Handgun Shooting for FREE! Come along to learn how to safely handle a handgun from qualified female shooters in a friendly and safe environment.

On the day you will receive a comprehensive safety briefing, be shown the basics of handgun shooting and be taken onto the range to learn how to shoot with other female shooters and beginners such as yourself. Following the session you will have the opportunity to discuss your experience with the instructors and ask questions over refreshments.

This program is for women over 18 years old and for girls aged 12 – 17 years. Children wishing to participate MUST be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

WhenSunday 13 April – 11am – 2.30pm 
Where: Melton Pistol Club, Hinkler Crescent, Brookfield, 3337

Bookings:  Spaces are limited and bookings are essential. Bookings must be made directly with Melton Pistol Club either via email atmailbox@meltonpistolclub.comor phone on 0403 597 522.

 

 

 

Come & Try: Fishing for Women

As part of the Melton City Girls Can campaign this April, Didyabringyarodalong Angling Club are inviting women, girls and the whole family to come and try their hand at fishing!

On the day, club members, many of whom are experienced fishermen and fisherwomen will show participants how to cast, bait hooks, tie knots and use basic fishing tactics to catch fish in the extensively stocked Navan Park Lake with a BBQ lunch to follow!

You don’t need any experience to come along and have a go. All equipment including fishing rods and bait and tackle will be provided on the day. You can also learn more about joining the clubs if you are interested in continuing your fishing adventures. This program is being run at Navan Park Lake, participants are required to meet at the carpark.

When: Sunday 13 April, 10am – 1pm
Where: Navan Park Lake, 246 Centenery Avenue, Harkness, 3337

Registrations are not required for this event. This program is for all ages, however those under the age of 18 must be supervised by a parent or guardian.

 

 

Come & Try: Soccer for Girls

As part of the Melton City Girls Can campaign this April, Melton Phoenix Football Club are inviting girls aged 8-13 to come and try their soccer skills for FREE!

This event is designed to be a fun and inclusive soccer skills training session designed to help you learn new skills, build confidence, and have a great time on the field! Whether you’re brand new to soccer or already love the game, this is the perfect chance to give it a go and see if it’s for you.

Come along, get active, make new friends, and see what soccer is all about! If you love it, you’ll have the chance to register for ongoing training and keep playing.

Registration information to come.

When: April 5, 2025, 10:00 am - April 5, 2025, 11:00 am

Where: Pavilion 2, MacPherson Park, Coburns Road, Toolern Vale, 3337

Book now

 

 

Come & Try: AFL Umpiring for Women and Girls

As part of the Melton City Girls Can campaign this April, Riddell District Football Netball League is hosting a FREE umpiring event for women and girls. In this exciting opportunity you will learn about and try AFL umpiring in a fun, supportive, and inclusive environment! Whether you're looking for a great way to stay active, build confidence, or be part of the game, umpiring is a fantastic way to get involved in Australian Rules Football. Come along, give it a go, and discover how umpiring can keep you fit, healthy, and connected to the game.

This event is for women and girls aged 12 and over—no experience needed!

When: April 16, 2025, 6:00 pm - April 16, 2025, 7:15 pm

Where: Diggers Rest Recreation Reserve, 42 Plumpton Road Diggers Rest

Book now 

Positive & Inclusive Umpiring Workshop: All genders

As part of the Melton City Girls Can campaign this April, Riddell District Football Netball League is hosting a FREE workshop on positive and inclusive umpiring. This important session will help foster inclusive and respectful communication in AFL umpiring! Led by Elephant Ed, this event will equip umpires with practical strategies to use positive and inclusive language at training, on match days, and in everyday life.

Creating a welcoming and respectful environment in sport is essential for attracting and retaining umpires, ensuring everyone feels valued, supported, and confident in their role.

This program is for umpires of all genders and ages, whether you’re experienced or just starting out!

Registration information to come.

When: April 23, 2025, 6:00 pm - April 23, 2025, 7:30 pm

Where: Diggers Rest Recreation Reserve, 42 Plumpton Road Diggers Rest

Book now

Fair Access Workshops for Sports Clubs - online

Fair Access Workshops for Sports Clubs 

Council and GenWest are working together to deliver a series of workshops for leaders, coaches and decision makers at clubs, to help you understand what changes have come into place, what this means for you, how you can support the prevention of gender based violence and ways your club can be more inclusive for women and girls. Following this, clubs will have the opportunity to express their interest in receiving free support from GenWest to develop tailored action plans to facilitate increased participation from women and girls.

To register your space at a free ‘Fair Access’ workshop, please follow the link below to your preferred session to make a booking on the Melton Learning Directory website.

SESSION 1

Where: Online 
When: Wednesday 26 March
Time: 6.30pm - 8pm  
Register

SESSION 2

Where: Online
When: Wednesday 2 April
Time: 6.30pm - 8pm  
Register

 

 

Why should your club become more inclusive for people who identify as women and girls?

Increasing women’s and girls’ participation helps sport clubs to grow membership, boost revenue and improve performance by expanding the talent pool. Inclusive clubs attract more players, supporters, and sponsors while fostering stronger teams and leadership pathways. Clubs that are diverse and welcoming to people of all genders and backgrounds build positive role models, stronger communities and more successful sporting cultures.

To support this, Council has recently adopted its Allocation of Sport and Recreation Facilities Policy and accompanying Fair Access in Sport Action Plan.