By Jacqui Bialocki
What a year it has been for Mornington Peninsula Magazine: new energy, creative and inspired ideas, and a host of stories that celebrate the Peninsula community.
When new owner Lauren Wild took the helm in October 2024, she brought fresh energy, bold ideas, and a genuine love for the Peninsula community. Twelve issues on, she is reflecting on a whirlwind first year — one filled with learning, growth, and a whole lot of storytelling.
“I’m really thrilled with how far we’ve come,” Lauren said. “We’ve given the magazine a fresher new look and filled its pages with amazing stories told by our talented local community and written for readers by our incredible team of contributors.”
Lauren’s first year has been about more than just publishing; it has been about understanding what Mornington Peninsula Magazine truly means to its readers.
“The feedback has been so positive,” she said. “We really value it, because we want to keep delivering what is important to both our local community and to the businesses within it. This magazine belongs to the community; we are just the messengers.”
That community spirit sits at the heart of every issue. The magazine has long been a trusted source for residents, day-trippers, and visitors wanting to discover the people, places, and experiences that make the region shine. From events and new openings to local profiles and creative ventures, it is a celebration of Peninsula life in all its colour, variety, and glory.
“Our readers love learning about what’s happening around them,” Lauren said. “It is everything from small business stories and local news to personal achievements and volunteer projects. There is so much passion here, and we are here to tell those stories.”
When asked to pick a highlight from her first year, Lauren smiled immediately.
“Definitely the March issue celebrating International Women’s Day,” she said. “It was our cover story, and we brought together a group of fabulous local women for a fun-filled photo shoot. The laughter, the energy — it was everything I love about this community.”
As Mornington Peninsula Magazine moves on to its next chapter, Lauren is excited to keep the pages turning and the conversations flowing.
“We’re always on the lookout for new stories,” she said. “Everyone has one — whether it is a creative project, a personal achievement or milestone, a great local initiative, or a new producer in the region. The more voices we share, the more variety we have, and the richer our storytelling and the stronger our community becomes.”
A year on, the magazine feels fresher, more connected, and brimming with stories that matter. With Lauren leading the way, the future looks as bright as a Peninsula sunrise — and there is plenty more to come.
