By Clr Dr Verity Greenwood, Hornsby Shire Council
At the beginning of my Councillor journey three years ago, I hoped that my previous experience, qualifications and skills would guide me in truly representing my community, with the best interests of my community being at the heart of what I do above all else.
Through my inquisitiveness, volunteer membership of four Council committees and overriding concern with the lived experience of our community, I have seen first-hand the impact of our Council decision-making on the health, resilience and economic, social, cultural and environmental wellbeing of our community.
In particular, I have had the opportunity to witness the effect of the outstanding Hornsby Council “Hello Hornsby” program. This program conducts events across the Shire and offers opportunities and extends possibilities to maintain and strengthen health, resilience and wellbeing in local everyday places and space.
I am in awe of the program’s interventions in extending access to places of care for our Hornsby residents, its role in forging connections and enhancing the belonging and membership of its participants.
I have often admired the enthusiasm of the “Hello Hornsby” program staff and, through the program, I have been privileged to meet and share stories, laughter and events with individuals from different social and cultural groups.
These groups are normally isolated by a number of factors including distance, poor health, lack of health resources, lack of support and carer responsibilities, commitments and poor transport options.
These factors have restricted their everyday life and affected their ability to connect with others in the community. Being able to meet within their local space and place makes all the difference.
The next “Hello Hornsby” event will be a trip on the Riverboat Postman on Tuesday 17 th September. See https://www.hornsby.nsw.gov.au/community/services/seniors/hello-hornsby for more details.
If you have any concerns or issues where I may assist, please do not hesitate to contact me at [email protected]
