FromPeter Kenyon

For five years, the Bank of I.D.E.A.S. has been engaged with the City of Launceston in their ABCDE neighbourhood renewal initiatives. What an amazing journey of discovery, connection, celebration and achievement it has been for the residents and organisations within the five communities that have partnered with the City of Launceston during this time. It has been a privilege and incredible learning experience for the Bank of I.D.E.A.S. to see community passion and ownership in action, and the number and diversity of community projects implemented, that have contributed to making each of these communities more caring, connected, inclusive and proud.

It was an amazing opportunity for me to spend three days in Launceston in November 2021 to assist the dynamic Sarah McCormack with the facilitation of a set of meetings to celebrate and share the learnings of the five year project. This included time at the Northern Suburbs Community Centre in Newnham and the Starting Point Neighbourhood House in Ravenswood to touch base with those community builders who participated in past Council Learning Sites. Then there was a ‘Lunchtime Conversation’ and afternoon workshop to share the approach with City of Launceston staff and to encourage a whole Council approach to the ABCDE practice.

The highlight, as always with my visits, was participation in the daylong community workshop in Kings Meadows. Wow, what a day to remember – the passion, energy, humour and creativity of 50 local community builders was awesome. In particular, the contribution of students from the local school was very special. One need have no fears for the future of Kings Meadows with their enthusiasm and continuing leadership! During the day, so many simple, but powerful and practical ideas were contributed, discussed and prioritised as this Report outlines. I particularly loved the way the identified community assets were captured in the community crown.

This twelve month journey summarised in this Report illustrates what the asset based community driven approach is all about. Firstly, do not start with the needs of a community- start with identifying, connecting and mobilising community resources and capacities. Start with what works, the half full part of the community glass – not the half empty. Secondly, great communities do not just happen – they are created, nurtured and sustained by caring, connected and involved local residents. Finally, believe that the wisdom of local people always exceeds the knowledge of outside experts.

My thanks again to Sarah McCormack for your exceptional leadership and facilitation of the ABCDE Learning Sites. Finally, congratulations to the community builders of Kings Meadows for taking time to dream, plan, collaborate and activate. Your legacy and efforts makes Kings Meadows a richer community in terms of connection, wellbeing and opportunity.

Peter Kenyon OAM Director, Bank of I.D.E.A.S.