We hear a great deal about loneliness these days, but here in Boroondara we have an antidote: Connect with your community.
Our 11 neighbourhood houses and community centres are places to meet others, to learn, to take part, and to feel a sense of belonging. During 2022, 8,457 people did just that by attending neighbourhood house programs and activities in Boroondara, an increase on pre-COVID participation. They joined activities such as furniture restoration classes and bee workshops, learned computer basics and practised their English-speaking skills. Most importantly, they connected with other local people.
In recognition of the important role they play, Council has invested in the development and renewal of our neighbourhood houses in recent years, so our community facilities are high quality, inclusive, and meet the changing needs of the community.
These include Trentwood located at Greythorn Community Hub, Balwyn Community Centre, Camberwell Community Centre and Alamein Neighbourhood and Learning, which now have larger, fit-for-purpose and welcoming community spaces that will meet the needs of our community now and into the future. Canterbury Neighbourhood Centre moved into the beautiful new Canterbury Community Precinct in April, and last month we were pleased to launch our Neighbourhood Houses Framework 2023 there. It documents and reaffirms the important role neighbourhood houses play, and sets shared goals for Council and these organisations over the next four years as we work together to create vibrant and resilient communities that thrive, grow and connect.
As well as buildings, Council gives neighbourhood houses access to triennial operational funding, advice and support through a dedicated Council officer, promotional support, and workshops for neighbourhood house committees of management, staff and volunteers to support good governance and skill development.
If you have not yet ventured into a local neighbourhood house or community centre I encourage you to do so. You will find yourself at the very heart of your community.
Mayor of Boroondara