By Callum Ludwig
The ADRA Redwood Community Centre in Warburton is set to bolster its already burgeoning sense of community with an exhibition next month.
The centre will be hosting a Community Group Showcase, with any and all Warburton and Upper Yarra community groups welcome to attend and tell attendees all about themselves.
Manager of the ADRA Redwood Community Centre Kate Barratt said they want to celebrate the efforts of the groups and volunteers in the town alongside giving others the opportunity to get involved.
“We are all well aware of the benefits of community engagement, social interactions and even volunteering, they all play a huge role in better mental and physical health outcomes. We wanted to make it fun and easy for locals to explore ways to get involved,” she said.
“So much happens behind the scenes and it was important for us to allow groups to share their achievements, we also want to let people know that volunteering and participation comes in all shapes and sizes from once a year, to weekly,”
“From learning new skills to sharing your own skills, everyone has something to give and something to learn.”
So far, about 20 community groups have signed up to showcase on the day including the Warburton Emergency Planning Group (W.E.P.G), Sunday Circle Craft Group, Upper Yarra Landcare and the Upper Yarra Toy Library.
Ms Barratt said there’s absolutely opportunities for more local groups to get involved.
“Groups are encouraged to set up a small display to share what they do and how others can get involved, it doesn’t have to be elaborate and can be as simple as representatives appearing on the day to have a chat with people,” she said.
“We want to have a range of groups to appeal to the diverse range of individuals in our beautiful community, it has been a great experience having the opportunity to chat with these groups so far and will be wonderful for all groups to learn more about each other on the day,”
“Locals will get to find out just how active our community is, they will have the opportunity to sign up to take part or simply learn about what is out there, it could also be a way for people to see how they may be able to start a group of their own.”
The event will also mark the launch of the ADRA Redwood food trailer which will be stocked with free food provided by Friday Soup Night (and not just soup).
The event will be held on Sunday 10 November from 10am to 1pm and is free for all attendees.
Any groups or interested attendees can contact Ms Barratt at katebarratt@adra.org.au to register or find out
