Seven rural communities across the Lismore City Council area will be asked to outline their visions for the future.
The council has announced a series of workshops that will take place over the next 18 months during which local people will be asked to create action plans that reflect the desires of their communities.
The council’s community engagement and partnering team will conduct the series of two-day workshops during which residents are encouraged to share ideas for community projects.
The feedback from the workshops will form the basis of community plans, and people from each of the seven communities will be asked to form a community panel to oversee the plans.
The council’s partnering and community engagement officer Casie Hughes said the idea was to inspire community leadership and volunteering with plans that were project and activity based.
‘We know from experience that each small community in the Lismore local government area has its own unique character and needs, so we knew right from the beginning that a one-size-fits-all approach would not work,’ she said.
‘We are looking for community members that have fresh ideas, creativity, enthusiasm and energy. If you have passion for your community, then please join this process.’
Ms Hughes said the aim of the first community planning day was to explore people’s thoughts, ideas and aspirations, and to document those into actions and objectives.
At the second community planning day, the council staff will return with a draft plan to further identify priorities and feasibility of projects.
‘This is your chance to have a say in planning the future of your community,’ she said.
‘We want to help facilitate grassroots projects that change communities for the better. To do that effectively we need committed and willing local people.’
The community planning days for The Channon, Terania Creek, Tuntable Creek, Koonorigan and Keerrong communities will be held at the Channon Hall on 31 January from 9.30am to 3.30pm. RSVP by 9 January.
The second planning day will be held at Koonorigan Hall on 28 February from 9.30am to 3.30pm.
The community planning days for Wyrallah, Tregeagle, Lindendale, Monaltrie, Marom Creek, Tucki Tucki, Tuckurimba, North Woodburn, Green Forest and Buckendoon communities will be held at the Wyrallah Hall on 14 February from 9.30am to 3.30pm, RSVP by 2 February.
The follow-up session will be held at Tregeagle Hall on 7 March from 9.30am to 3.30pm, RSVP by 20 February.
People are asked to bring lunch or a plate to share on the day.
Anyone wanting to register should contact Lizette Twisleton or Casie Hughes on 1300 87 83 87.
Community leadership comes from leadership from the people.
So this is a failure already as it is leadership from Council telling the people that they have freedom.
THAT IS NOT FREEDOM.
That is parenthood to child telling the child that they have freedom.