By Callum Ludwig
Cire Services in Yarra Junction held a special event where stuffed friends came along to help young families make new connections in the community.
A Teddy Bear Picnic was held on the oval of the Yarra Junction Recreation Reserve, providing a great opportunity for young families to come together.
A Cire spokesperson said it was a great opportunity for families to have a fun time with their kids, at no cost.
“It plays an important role for children to learn, be connected to nature and exposed to different cultures and it is an opportunity for the community to display the free activities on offer, to develop a sense of connection and belonging to the community with participation and shared fun at a family event,” they said.
“This also helps to strengthen community ties, it’s great to have such events close to home, walking distance for many, without having to travel ‘down the line’ and it helps to foster and showcase the vibrancy of the local community.”
Kids had a range of activities to enjoy from playing with musical instruments to puppet shows and from artwork to cricket.
“It is an opportunity for organisations to come together and promote their services such as VACCA, OONAH and local Council to all have an opportunity to display the important role each play in the community,” the Cire Services spokesperson said.
“It is an opportunity for the community to engage with these local groups and organisations so they are aware of the opportunities that exist for them.”
Cire has a number of other community events coming up for kids and adults alike including the Mt Evelyn Street Party on Sunday 29 October, the Halloween Street Party in Yarra Junction on Tuesday 31 October and the Christmas Twilight Market in Chirnside Park on Friday 1 December.
The Cire Services spokesperson said Cire’s mission is to empower people of all ages through education at whatever level.
“it is all about connection through community engagements that support and create better outcomes for children,” they said.
“With over 100 children involved in the event, it would be great to engage the wider community to further develop and strengthen the community with a shared sense of belonging in a fun family event.”
