Frankston locals invited to put questions to leaders at Ballam Park barbecue

Frankston locals will have the chance to meet Mayor Kris Bolam, Jodie Belyea MP and Paul Edbrooke MP at the Pollies BBQ on Saturday 15 November at Ballam Park.

Residents will have a rare chance to speak directly with their local, state and federal representatives when Frankston City Council hosts a community barbecue at Ballam Park on Saturday 15 November.

The “Pollies BBQ” will run from 11am to 1.30pm and bring together Frankston Mayor Kris Bolam, Federal Member for Dunkley Jodie Belyea and State Member for Frankston Paul Edbrooke, alongside other councillors.

The event is designed to break down barriers between the community and elected officials, giving residents the opportunity to raise concerns and ideas in an informal, family-friendly setting.

Focus on collaboration

Mayor Bolam said the gathering built on recent examples of successful cross-government advocacy. He pointed to the city’s Frankston City First campaign, which secured almost $60 million in funding for council-led projects, as proof of what can be achieved when all levels of government work together.

“This barbecue is about more than sausages – it’s about showing that respectful conversations can make a real difference when councils, state and federal representatives are aligned,” Cr Bolam said.

Proceeds for local causes

The sausage sizzle will be run by Peninsula Rotary Club, with proceeds to be shared with BAM Arts Inc, a Frankston-based group offering inclusive creative programs for people with disabilities.

All levels of government in one place

With Frankston sitting across multiple state electorates – Frankston, Carrum and Hastings – but entirely within the federal seat of Dunkley, residents are often represented by several politicians. The event offers a rare chance to see them side by side.

Mr Edbrooke said Ballam Park was chosen because it is a space where people of all ages and abilities can come together. Ms Belyea described the initiative as a powerful signal of partnership, encouraging locals to “grab a snag and have a chat” about the future of Frankston.