The 2019 Flinders Community Association Annual Dinner attracted more than 120 people this year.

The dinner, now a regular event on the Flinders calendar, included an interview led by Ranald Macdonald with special guests John Mitchell from Montalto and his daughter Heidi and son-in-law Neil Williams. John discussed his early connection to the Mornington Peninsula and his transition from a corporate career to wine making. Heidi who trained as a lawyer, highlighted the social and environmental priorities of Montalto; while Neil spoke about his time establishing the Cook Street Collective as an outlet for local and aspiring artists.

Also in attendance was the Mornington Peninsula’s new Mayor, David Gill.  Following the interviews, Mayor Gill was coaxed into a spontaneous address to the dinner; noting the contribution of Montalto and emphasising the importance of protecting the Peninsula’s unique natural and agricultural environment, especially given that the Peninsula is now the  ‘food bowl’ for Melbourne.

The evening concluded with a raffle, supported by donations from local businesses.