Driven by care: South Port Day Links keeps community connected

For almost 37 years, South Port Day Links has been quietly transforming the lives of some of the city’s most vulnerable residents.

From humble beginnings as a grassroots initiative, the not-for-profit organisation has grown into a vital community connector.

“South Port Day Links was founded by a social worker, Beris Campbell, and one of her colleagues in the old Port Melbourne council,” general manager Clemens Unger said.

“Beris realised there was a need to connect elderly residents to the community and transport them to certain appointments, medical and others.”

What began with a handful of volunteers using their own cars is now a well-oiled operation, boasting a fleet of six vehicles and a team of more than 100 dedicated volunteers.

The organisation completes around 11,000 transport bookings a year, ferrying clients to GP visits, hospital appointments and essential errands – trips that other services like taxis or ride-share companies may not accommodate.

“Our clients sometimes only go very short distances – no taxi will take you 400 metres down the road,” Mr Unger told Southbank News.

“That’s where we come in, and our volunteers do that because they want to help people. It’s a service with a smile.”

But South Port Day Links is more than just a transport provider. Its reach has extended to three social support programs known as the “Mates Programs”: Walk Mates, Pet Mates, and Garden Mates.

“They’re all about social connection,” Mr Unger said.

It’s a really personal relationship where our volunteers get matched with the client.

Walk Mates combines gentle exercise with meaningful companionship, offering clients the chance to enjoy a stroll – or simply share a cuppa on rainy days.

Pet Mates steps in when clients can no longer walk their beloved dogs, ensuring their furry companions still get the care and attention they need.

Garden Mates provides light garden maintenance, helping clients keep their outdoor spaces tidy and enjoyable.

“Our volunteers can see the client after hours, or on a Saturday morning, if they both agree to it – it’s flexible and builds real connection,” Mr Unger said.

South Port Day Link’s community spirit was on full display at the organisation’s inaugural fundraiser, held on May 31 with more than 100 guests in attendance – including local business owners and City of Port Phillip councillors.

“We were pleased to see many councillors and community supporters there – it shows that the council has a deep interest in what we do.”

The evening, which featured live music and auctions, raised more than $13,000 for the not-for-profit.

“It was a really, really good start, and we’ll just keep building on that next year.”

When asked what he loved most about what he did, Mr Unger told Southbank News it was all about the people.

“You meet a lady who spent her whole life in Port Melbourne. They point out the house where they were born, and you get a real feel for the history and the person,” he said.

“That’s a really feel-good thing – money can’t buy that.” •