The Ipswich Resilience Network convened recently to explore strategies for enhancing community leadership and bolstering resilience across all sectors. Mayor Teresa Harding highlighted the event’s significance, emphasizing the pivotal role of local leadership in fortifying Ipswich’s community spirit.
Community enthusiast Peter Kenyon, representing the Bank of I.D.E.A.S., addressed Ipswich’s Community Early Response teams, Community Centre leaders, and various service organizations dedicated to building a more resilient community. “The Ipswich Resilience Network joined together to look at how collectively we can all work together to ensure we are using the right tools to support our community because it’s our people that make our city resilient,” Mayor Harding stated.
Kenyon, who has collaborated with over 2,000 communities in Australia and 59 countries worldwide, shared insights on fostering local economic renewal through creative community engagement. “He spoke about how Ipswich leaders could aspire to be the type of community that sparks our own ideas and invest in our people so that together we can build a sustainable future for all,” added Mayor Harding.
The workshop received joint funding from Ipswich City Council, Logan City Council, and the Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA). This collaboration marks Kenyon’s return to Ipswich, following the launch of the Stronger Communities Program in 2021, which aimed to inspire positive change and provide tangible support to the community.
Since its inception, the Stronger Communities Program has seen participation from over 200 community groups across Ipswich, attending workshops to enhance their governance and capacity. “It’s important that we have strong support networks because when a community has the information it needs to succeed, resilience and confidence grows,” Mayor Harding explained. “This is the type of community that Ipswich aspires to be. One that is secure in the knowledge that no-one is left behind when disaster strikes.”
The 2024 Stronger Communities Program will commence in June. For more information, contact community@ipswich.gov.au.
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