Jennifer Pittorino
To mark Neighbourhood House Week 2023, Maribyrnong City council hosted a event at the Maribyrnong Community Centre on Thursday, May 11.
This year Neighbourhood House Week fell from May 8-14, giving locals the chance to come together and celebrate community.
This year’s theme was‘ Locals connecting Locals’, which Maribyrnong Mayor, Councillor Sarah Carter said is relevant now more than ever.
“This year’s theme is particularly poignant given the recent challenges our community has faced over the last few years including extensive lockdowns and last year’s major Maribyrnong River flood event,” she said.
Those in attendance were treated with food and refreshments and had a day of activities.
“Attendees shared a multicultural meal, participated in fun activities and games, and, most importantly, made meaningful connections with their community members,” she said.
“We also distributed a booklet that provides information about various neighbourhood activities in Maribyrnong,” she said.
Neighbourhood houses and community centres work for the community offering
activities, programs and services.
These providers help combat loneliness and provide the human connection that is so vital to health and wellbeing which Cr Carter said is the essence of Neighbourhood House Week.
“Neighbourhood House Week not only celebrates the numerous Neighbourhood Houses across Australia that have supported communities through thick and thin but also acknowledges the invaluable role of neighbours as first responders in times of need,” she said.
“It’s a time to honour the strength and sense of community that our residents foster and who make our local neighbourhoods safe and harmonious,” she said.
Neighbourhood House Week is an annual national celebration and nationwide initiative run by the Australian Neighbourhood Houses & Centres Association.
