Neighbour Day a chance to connect with community

Neighbour Day is Australia’s annual celebration of community that encourages people to connect with those who live nearby.

Whether for a cuppa, a picnic in the park or a message of support; it’s the perfect opportunity to say thanks for being a great neighbour and for being there when I needed you most.

Townsville City Council is encouraging residents to participate in Neighbour Day on Sunday, March 26, by hosting a street barbecue or community event.

Council can also help with planning assistance where permission is required.

Community and Cultural Development Committee chair Cr Colleen Doyle said people living in neighbourhoods that were highly connected enjoyed, overall, higher levels of physical and mental health.

“Neighbours are important because good relationships with others can and do change communities,” Cr Doyle said.

“Social connection makes us feel better as it helps prevent loneliness, isolation and depression. When you connect with the people who live nearby, you’re showing you care about what happens locally and are directly supporting safe, friendly and resilient neighbourhoods.”

Cr Doyle said neighbourhood event ideas included a BYO-everything street gathering; a game of cricket in the local park; a barbie at the end of the cul-de-sac; a party on the front lawn; afternoon tea in the back paddock; a picnic; or an outdoor movie – just to name a few.

“It’s important to plan ahead for a street party or an event in the local park, especially if you plan on closing streets or using large areas of a public space. Contact council to find out if you need council permission for your event,” she said.

Everything you need to help facilitate your Neighbour Day event is now available on the neighbourday.org website.  Townsville City Council also offers a Neighbourhood Party Kit full of tips, ideas and information, available on council’s website townsville.qld.gov.au

Everyone is encouraged to contact Neighbour Day through their Twitter, Facebook and Instagram accounts to share their neighbourhood stories and exciting plans.

Neighbour Day is brought to you by Relationships Australia, a national not for profit organisation that works to improve relationships in all their forms. www.relationships.org.au