At the core of the Georges River community is a sense of connection, and it was clear at our recent International Women's Day Breakfast how diverse our community is, and how strong we are when connected.
Celebrated on the last Sunday in March, Neighbour Day is Australia's annual celebration of community, encouraging people to connect with their neighbours. A neighbour is also no longer necessarily defined by location alone and can be someone in your street or the wider community. This year, the theme for Neighbour Day is 'Every day is neighbour day', so I encourage our community to help break down loneliness by building meaningful and sustainable social connections with the people around you.
Something I like to keep in mind is that connected people connect communities. Neighbours connect and provide support to each other. As we have seen during the numerous challenging times over the past year, neighbours matter and now, more than ever, is the time to make creative connections and to stay connected. So how are you connecting with your community for Neighbour Day this Sunday?
There are many ways to celebrate, from hosting a BBQ with the residents on your street, to simply enjoying a cup of tea with a new or old neighbour. Take the opportunity to speak with your neighbours, whether it is to say 'hello' and introduce yourself, or to say 'thank you' for being a good neighbour. To celebrate Neighbour Day, Georges River Libraries have special displays at Hurstville, Clive James Kogarah and Penshurst, and Story Time (for 3-5 years) this week, at Hurstville and Clive James Kogarah, will focus on the importance of community. Why not visit one of the libraries as part of Neighbour Day 2021?
There are many resources available to help our community celebrate Neighbour Day, including posters, flyers and Connection Cards, which can be filled out and letter-dropped around your neighbourhood. These are available on Council's website, Georges River Libraries and Home Library Service, as well as through some of our local community groups: 3Bridges Community, Kogarah Community Services and SGCH.
Knowing your neighbours and the broader community is important. I encourage everyone to celebrate Neighbour Day 2021 this Sunday and contribute to building and connecting with the strong Georges River community of which I am very proud to be part.
For more information, visit www.georgesriver.nsw.gov.au/neighbour-day
