Frankston City Turns 60
Published on 23 July 2026
For 60 years, Frankston has been shaped by the stories of the people who call it home.
From childhood memories and family traditions to creative works inspired by local streets, beaches and neighbourhoods, stories help define a place and create a sense of belonging. As Frankston City prepares to celebrate 60 years since it was officially declared a city on 24 August 1966, a special weekend of events will explore the many ways storytelling continues to connect, inspire and reflect the community.
At the heart of the celebrations is an idea familiar to every library visitor: stories matter. They help us understand where we've come from, imagine where we're going and connect us to one another. Libraries play a vital role in preserving community stories while providing spaces where new stories can be shared, created and discovered.
To mark the milestone, Frankston City Libraries will host a series of events that celebrate local authors, illustrators, readers and aspiring creators, highlighting the rich storytelling culture that has helped shape Frankston over the past six decades.
The celebrations begin with Rising Creators: Your Frankston, Your Way on Friday 21 August 2026 from 4pm to 5.30pm.
Led by acclaimed author Danielle Binks and illustrator Judy Watson, the workshop invites young people to create their own version of Frankston through words and pictures. Drawing inspiration from historic photographs, local landmarks and ideas for the city's future, participants will explore how stories can capture both memories and possibilities.
The session encourages young creators to become storytellers of their own community and to consider the role they might play in Frankston's next chapter.
Families can continue the celebrations at Little Stories for Little Locals on Saturday 22 August at 11am.
This special birthday Storytime will celebrate Frankston's talented children's book creators with stories, songs and rhymes designed to delight young audiences. Local picture book authors and illustrators will share their work through guest readings, alongside a lively Storytime led by Family Literacy Resource Officer, Sarah. We're thrilled to be welcoming award winning author Deb Frenkle and multi-genre author Jodie Fitzsimons.
The event highlights the important role stories play in childhood, sparking imagination, building connections and helping young people see themselves reflected in the communities around them.
Later on Saturday, storytelling takes centre stage in Growing Up Frankston: Authors in Conversation, beginning at 4pm on Saturday 22 August.
Hosted by respected journalist and broadcaster Paul Kennedy,the event brings together authors Shaun Carney, Alan Wickes, and Sue Robinson for an engaging discussion about the influence of place on creativity.
Together, they will reflect on how growing up in Frankston shaped their perspectives, writing and careers, and explore the ways local experiences can leave a lasting mark on the stories we tell.
This relaxed, catered event offers readers and lovers of local history a chance to hear personal reflections on Frankston's past, present and enduring influence.
A Celebration of Frankston's Story
As Frankston City marks its 60th anniversary, these events offer more than a chance to celebrate a milestone. They invite the community to reflect on the stories that have shaped Frankston and the stories still waiting to be told.
Whether through a child's first Storytime, a young creator imagining the future, or established authors reflecting on their roots, each event highlights the power of storytelling to connect people to place.
For six decades, Frankston's story has been written by its residents. This August, the community is invited to celebrate that shared story and help inspire the next generation of storytellers who will shape the city's future. See all the birthday celebration events across Frankston City here.