News & Blog
All of the latest MotHs news, musings and articles. Stay up to date on what’s happening in the Hills, local events and key information for Hills residents.
Blog I Support I Advocacy I Member Spotlight I Business Share
June wrap Up
June has been big for Mums of the Hills. From coming together at the beautiful Lantern Parade to sharing our story with other community groups, it has been a month of reminding ourselves why this community matters. Read more about what we’ve been up to this month.
Staying connected when the world feels heavy
The world feels heavy right now and you’re not alone if you’re feeling it too. At Mums of the Hills, we can’t fix the big stuff, but we can create spaces that help us stay connected and lift each other up. From our New Mums Welcome Bags to the MotHs Band, the Runooshkas, and real conversations like Lunch with Emma, we’re here, together.
The Group is back! Here’s the why, how and what’s next.
Facebook’s latest algorithm shift tried to bury our real community connection, but we didn’t let it. Here’s how we adapted, kept mums connected, and made sure local businesses still shine.
We’ve always had bushfires. What’s changed, and how does MOTHs fit in?
Climate change isn’t just increasing the intensity of disasters, it’s changing how communities connect, recover and care for one another. At Mums of the Hills, we’ve seen women quietly lead both online and on the ground, often without recognition or support. It’s time our policies caught up with the reality of community-led resilience.
Emma Gilmour’s Story of Self-Discovery and Self-Compassion
Emma Gilmour thought giving up wine would be the hard part, but the real surprise was finally being taken seriously about her health.
In this powerful reflection, she shares how removing alcohol opened the door to real care, real connection, and a life that truly feels like her own.
We’re Not Going Anywhere
Last week, Facebook changed its algorithm. Our private group, normally filled with daily support, posts, advice, and kindness, suddenly dropped off the radar. Overnight, 80% of our active members disappeared, not because they left, but because they stopped seeing us.
Thanks to our patrons and our volunteer army, we’re fighting back.
Behind the Mask:
On May 24th, something truly magical happened in the Hills. The chandeliers sparkled, the string lights twinkled, and our community came together, dressed to the nines and wrapped in mystery for the Monbulk Community Group’s inaugural Masquerade Gala.
It was a night of elegance and energy, but more than that, it was a night with meaning.
The Heart of the Hills
We’ve started sharing the origin stories of our Business Directory subscribers. These businesses have made a big contribution towards MotHs becoming a sustainable incorporation - one that supports the community not just when grant funds and donations are available.
Read more about what drives them.
Menopause, Misdiagnosis & Mates:
Menopause isn’t just hot flushes and mood swings…It’s a stage of life that’s been misunderstood and under-researched for far too long.
In our latest blog, we unpack Dr Marina McPherson’s powerful insights, the real foundation of women’s health, and why connection matters more than kale.
The Heart of Our Communities: Why Volunteers Matter More Than Ever
This blog is a love letter to our volunteers—the ones holding our community together in ways big and small. Featuring stories, stats, and a peek behind the scenes with that Anne from MotHs (yes, the one you’ve probably known for years without realising it), we’re celebrating the real magic behind Mums of the Hills: the people who give their time, heart, and humour to help others feel less alone.
Beyond the Silence: Reconciliation and the role of Mums
This Reconciliation Week, Belinda Young reflects on what we weren’t taught, what we’ve since learned, and what we now carry forward for our children.
Building Resilience Through Connection
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.
A Moment That Matters: Watch the Casey Candidates Discussion
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 Community Rallies, Magic Happens
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.
Because No Mum Should Navigate This Journey Alone
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.
The ripple effect that small businesses create
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.
When the Group Chat Is the 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 💛).
Casey Candidates Share Their Vision: Key Takeaways from the Election Forum
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 Recap: Empowerment, Engagement, and Growth
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:
Thanks for the cupcake, but what we need is real action
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.