Loneliness can be a difficult feeling to shake, especially when living in a neighbourhood where connections are scarce. However, a new initiative by council aims to change that for some lucky residents.
This year, council is putting a new twist on its successful annual Neighbour Day campaign, offering 10 families the chance to receive a box full of everything they need to host an introductory get-together with their neighbours. The aim is to bring people together and create new connections in the community. It's an exciting opportunity for those who are looking to build relationships and create a more resilient and connected community.
Mayor Greg Williamson said the “Be a Legendary Neighbour” campaign would provide 10 families with Legendary Neighbour boxes, which will include a $75 Sinclair Meats voucher, Legendary Neighbour invites to personalise, cups and plates, and conversation cards to help break the ice.
“This Neighbour Day initiative is aimed at those who may be new to a street or may have never had the opportunity to become acquainted with their neighbours,” Mayor Williamson said.
“We want to help build a more connected community because connected communities are resilient – they look out for each other,” he said.
“That can take the form of checking in on each other’s physical and mental wellbeing or helping to prepare for, or recover from, natural disasters.”
Mayor Greg Williamson said the My Legendary Neighbour Campaign had been a tremendous community initiative.
“In 2022, council received 75 nominations for residents deserving of the title of ‘Mackay’s most Legendary Neighbour’ and that was such a heart-warming result – the stories that came from it were beautiful,” Mayor Williamson said.
“After a few years of running that campaign though, we decided that we’d try a different approach that will encourage the forging of new legendary neighbour relationships.”
To register for one of the 10 Legendary Neighbour boxes, residents need to head to council’s website and answer the question – “why would you like to build relationships with your neighbours?”.
Applications close noon, Friday, March 24, and those with the 10 best answers to the above question will be notified on Tuesday, March 28.
Council will also be hosting a series of free “Cuppa with your neighbour” events where you can enjoy a free coffee while networking with other residents in your neighbourhood.
Council’s Community Development officers will be at these events to have a chat and share more information on activities happening in your area.
Cuppa with your neighbour events will be held on:
● Tuesday, March 14, from 8am to 10am at the Seaforth Mango Trees
● Saturday, March 18, from 10am to noon at Sealand Takeaway and Café, Midge Point
● Tuesday, March 21, from 8am to 10am at Beachfront Bar and Restaurant, Bucasia Esplanade
● Thursday, March 23, from 9am to 11am at The Esplanade, Grasstree Beach
● Friday, March 24, from 8.30am to 10.30am at The Pinnacle Whistlestop Coffee Cart
Residents of Marlin Court, Andergrove (pictured) were crowned 2022’s Legendary Neighbours. This year, council is encouraging the building of new neighbourhood friendships
