On Saturday 19th February, I attended the inaugural One Planet Market at the Payneham Community Centre. It was a great success! Very heartening to see so many people in the old hall, animated and engaged.
The market is presented by Sustainable Communities SA, and will be held on the 3rd Saturday morning of each month.
The aim of the market is "to encourage local production and local economy; and foster community relationships, resilience and self-reliance."
I brought along some peaches to exchange, and my clarinet to play a bit of background music. It was also a good opportunity to chat to local people. Other stalls included a toy swap, produce swap, morning tea cafe, natives plants, handmade cards, free-cycle second-hand books and LETS - Local Exchange Trading System.
See some great photos here on the Sustainable Communities website.
Well done everyone!
Showing posts with label Community. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Community. Show all posts
Sunday, February 20, 2011
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Australia Day in Norwood SA
Yesterday was Australia Day, the 26th January. This is a day that holds a lot of complexity, and it is important to acknowledge that for indigenous Australians this day symbolises the irrevocable and deeply traumatic changes to the way of life of the original inhabitants and owners of this land - in a local sense that is the Kaurna people of the Adelaide plains.
However, at the same time it is a day which can hold a lot of joy.
I attended the NPSP Australia Day Ceremony, held in the beautiful Norwood Concert Hall. Guests included the Mayor of NPSP and most of the local elected members; the Member for Norwood Steven Marshall; the Member for Bragg Vicki Chapman; the Minister for Multicultural Affairs and Member for Hartley, the Hon Grace Portolesi; and the Federal Minister for the Status of Women and Member for Adelaide the Hon Kate Ellis.
More importantly, many of the guests were friends and family of people choosing this day to become Australian Citizens.
48 people took part in the Australian citizenship ceremony, taking the Australian Citizenship Pledge .
I have spent some years living in a country where I was not a citizen, so I can really appreciate the value, both practical and spiritual, of being a citizen in the country where one has chosen to make one's life.
All those in attendance had the opportunity to reflect on the values of Australia, both in terms of the recent floods, and some inspiring stories of migrant Australians finding success in their chosen home.
The connecting power of arts and culture was shown by the wonderful musical performances of the Australian Girls Choir and the African Burundi Drummers, as well as the stories related to us by the special guest speakers.
Pat Rix was chosen as our Australia Day Ambassador, a program that has been sponsored by Woolworths for the last 21 years. Pat Rix is the founder and director of Tutti Ensemble, a group that uses the power of theatre and music to promote social inclusion and understanding for people with disability.
I am very happy to say that the NPSP Australia Day Citizen of the Year Award went to Beth Mylius, the driving force behind Sustainable Communities SA, for her tireless work in reconnecting local people to form networks that support people in their journey to live in a more sustainable manner, especially at the household and community level.
By giving this recognition to Beth and Sustainable Communities SA, the Norwood Payneham & St Peters Council has shown its willingness to support these kind of community initiatives, which bodes very well for our future!
However, at the same time it is a day which can hold a lot of joy.
I attended the NPSP Australia Day Ceremony, held in the beautiful Norwood Concert Hall. Guests included the Mayor of NPSP and most of the local elected members; the Member for Norwood Steven Marshall; the Member for Bragg Vicki Chapman; the Minister for Multicultural Affairs and Member for Hartley, the Hon Grace Portolesi; and the Federal Minister for the Status of Women and Member for Adelaide the Hon Kate Ellis.
More importantly, many of the guests were friends and family of people choosing this day to become Australian Citizens.
48 people took part in the Australian citizenship ceremony, taking the Australian Citizenship Pledge .
I have spent some years living in a country where I was not a citizen, so I can really appreciate the value, both practical and spiritual, of being a citizen in the country where one has chosen to make one's life.
All those in attendance had the opportunity to reflect on the values of Australia, both in terms of the recent floods, and some inspiring stories of migrant Australians finding success in their chosen home.
The connecting power of arts and culture was shown by the wonderful musical performances of the Australian Girls Choir and the African Burundi Drummers, as well as the stories related to us by the special guest speakers.
Pat Rix was chosen as our Australia Day Ambassador, a program that has been sponsored by Woolworths for the last 21 years. Pat Rix is the founder and director of Tutti Ensemble, a group that uses the power of theatre and music to promote social inclusion and understanding for people with disability.
I am very happy to say that the NPSP Australia Day Citizen of the Year Award went to Beth Mylius, the driving force behind Sustainable Communities SA, for her tireless work in reconnecting local people to form networks that support people in their journey to live in a more sustainable manner, especially at the household and community level.
By giving this recognition to Beth and Sustainable Communities SA, the Norwood Payneham & St Peters Council has shown its willingness to support these kind of community initiatives, which bodes very well for our future!
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Music for people
I have had the pleasure of being able to perform my music for some very special occasions this week.
On Monday 6th December I played my saxophone for the ladies of Noi Donne in the Community Rooms of the Payneham Library for their final session of the year, and the next morning I took along my flute for the ladies and gentlemen of Amicizia and played Christmas songs, accompanying some enthusiastic singing!
Noi Donne and Amicizia are just two of the programs run by the Co-ordinating Italian Committee or CIC. I joined as a volunteer with CIC a couple of months ago, and I am finding that I am loving being involved with this organisation that does so much for the elderly and socially disadvantaged people in our community. They have cuore - heart.
I am also playing some jazz flute this evening for the Adelaide premiere of Design for Life, the documentary of The Food Forest, the world class permaculture farm and education centre in Gawler, SA.
At the launch of the wonderful mural by local artist Sebastian Humphreys at the Norwood Pool on Saturday 4th, music was provided by two young saxophone players. They sounded great, and certainly added to the occasion.
Music makes people feel good. Music helps people feel connected. Music is a powerful and often under-estimated part of our community health.
I'll be encouraging more opportunities for community music making and enjoyment during my term on Council, and long after, I expect!
On Monday 6th December I played my saxophone for the ladies of Noi Donne in the Community Rooms of the Payneham Library for their final session of the year, and the next morning I took along my flute for the ladies and gentlemen of Amicizia and played Christmas songs, accompanying some enthusiastic singing!
Noi Donne and Amicizia are just two of the programs run by the Co-ordinating Italian Committee or CIC. I joined as a volunteer with CIC a couple of months ago, and I am finding that I am loving being involved with this organisation that does so much for the elderly and socially disadvantaged people in our community. They have cuore - heart.
I am also playing some jazz flute this evening for the Adelaide premiere of Design for Life, the documentary of The Food Forest, the world class permaculture farm and education centre in Gawler, SA.
At the launch of the wonderful mural by local artist Sebastian Humphreys at the Norwood Pool on Saturday 4th, music was provided by two young saxophone players. They sounded great, and certainly added to the occasion.
Music makes people feel good. Music helps people feel connected. Music is a powerful and often under-estimated part of our community health.
I'll be encouraging more opportunities for community music making and enjoyment during my term on Council, and long after, I expect!
Essential Edibles
I attended the Essential Edibles urban food swap on Sunday 5th December. Essential Edibles started up last September and takes place on the first Sunday of every month from 9am-11am at Joslin Reserve, between 3rd and 4th Avenues in Joslin.
You don't need to bring any produce to swap - just bring yourself and share what you can! In my case, I shared my music. Miriam and Andrew Yip from Environmental & Science Media were there filming the occasion, and Steven Marshall MP, who is a keen supporter of this community initiative, was also there chatting to folks.
Lots of good photos here on the Sustainable Communities SA website.
You don't need to bring any produce to swap - just bring yourself and share what you can! In my case, I shared my music. Miriam and Andrew Yip from Environmental & Science Media were there filming the occasion, and Steven Marshall MP, who is a keen supporter of this community initiative, was also there chatting to folks.
Lots of good photos here on the Sustainable Communities SA website.
Saturday, October 23, 2010
My Policies in more detail - text from my Policy Brochure
Detailed Policy Brochure, Sophia MacRae
I believe that all Councils benefit from having fresh, energetic, enthusiastic and committed people on their team. I believe in innovative, integrated long-term think that develops the synergy between the Council and the community.
I am committed to living with my family in this area for the long term. I will continue to be active in my community with my volunteer work. My professional work as a teacher and musician keeps me continually engaged with people young and old.
If elected to Norwood Payneham & St Peters Council, I commit to being available and accountable to all constituents.
Are you concerned about traffic safety?
Our children and our elderly need to negotiate the roads and footpaths safely as they move around the neighbourhood. We all need safe roads. Council plays a huge role in improving safety for drivers, cyclists and pedestrians. As a parent who commutes with my son on my bicycle, and walks to childcare and the shops, I have a particular interest in traffic safety, and if elected I will work with Council to ensure that safety for all is given the attention and resources it demands.
Do you want pleasant public space and access to community gardens?
By maintaining and enhancing facilities such as playgrounds, parks, cultural centres, community gardens and community noticeboards, the Council can encourage people to get involved in activities in their neighbourhood, which benefits the health and well-being of everyone in the community. Norwood Payneham & St Peters is blessed with a variety of beautiful communal spaces, and I want to help people make the most of them.
Do you want more support from Council regarding water and waste management?
Waste management is a key sustainability issue for our city. I believe that the recycling of organic waste is something that bears more consideration and consultation with the community. I would like to see more incentives for on-site composting of organic waste, and the assisted uptake of “Bokashi” bins for those without gardens.
I am also committed to water management and will work with the Council and residents to conserve water and to prevent waste run-off from polluting our stormwater. Better urban and residential design and assistance to residents for purchasing tanks and other basic infrastructure will improve our ability to retain the water in our city.
Do you care about trees and supporting our urban ecology?
I am committed to preserving our city's bio-diversity. The health of our community is linked to the health of our natural environment. The trees that line our streets, parks and wetlands are a haven for native birds and other life, and are vital to the bio-diversity of our urban surroundings. Council needs to be responsible and pro-active regarding the planting and maintenance of trees, and the management of native wildlife. If elected to Council, I will work to ensure that the proposed changes to the “Significant Tree” legislation do not adversely affect our residents or the amenity of our city. I will also work to rehabilitate the four creeks that run through our city.
Do you want to see the heritage character of NPSP preserved?
Sensitive, appropriate urban development is essential in order to retain the valuable heritage character of Norwood Payneham & St Peters. Flexibility and support are required from Council to ensure that rate payers are not overburdened with the expenses of maintaining old dwellings.
If elected, I will endeavour to see that Council operates an open channel for community consultation to ensure a healthy mix of heritage and well-designed contemporary buildings for NPSP.
Do you want to save money on energy and water?
Water and energy conservation is an important issue for all South Australians. Intelligent urban planning, utilising best-practise design principles, can greatly enhance our ability to use energy and water more efficiently. I aim to work effectively to encourage water-sensitive urban planning in our public spaces and to encourage developers to implement energy-efficient building materials and techniques in our city.
Do you love the culture of our city?
I am a qualified musician who has been teaching, performing and managing professional arts events for over twenty years. As a musician I have experienced first-hand the value of community spirit and openness, and how being involved in the arts benefits the vitality and heath of our community. Norwood Payneham & St Peters is well known for its involvement with the arts and cultural events. If elected, I will work to enhance this, and make the arts even more accessible to everyone.
Are you concerned about fiscal responsibility and accountability from your Council?
If elected to the Norwood Payneham & St Peters Council, I will be accessible and accountable to everyone in the community, and I'll be working hard to keep your rates as low as possible.
I support local businesses, and want every dollar spent in our community to stay in our community for as long as possible, to create shared prosperity.
*********************************
We all deserve to live in a pleasant neighbourhood where things just work well.
The Council is there to serve you.
I will demand effective programs and services for you.
I will ensure real community consultation, using the technology of today’s world.
Norwood Payneham & St Peters is already a great place to live, and I'm determined to make it even better.
Saturday, October 16, 2010
BISA Community Ride for Adelaide's Future
Sunday 17th is the day of the inaugural BISA Community Ride for Adelaide's Future. The event is both a celebration of all that is good about riding a bike, and all that is good about our city, as well as an opportunity to meet local government candidates and bring the need for safer cycling infrastructure and policies to the attention of all levels of government.
When you use a bike, even for a short trip or a relaxing Sunday pastime, you are part of a system that is moving you around, increasing health, doesn't create pollution or cause damage to the road, and increases overall enjoyment of life. If you are able to use a bike, and feel safe and confident doing it, it is such a great feeling.
I have been part of the organising committee for this event, and I am very proud of my colleagues for all the work they have done in engaging both the general community, and council candidates from around Adelaide.
We may have some special guests there too.
Bring a picnic in your panniers or backpack. Hope to see you there.
When you use a bike, even for a short trip or a relaxing Sunday pastime, you are part of a system that is moving you around, increasing health, doesn't create pollution or cause damage to the road, and increases overall enjoyment of life. If you are able to use a bike, and feel safe and confident doing it, it is such a great feeling.
I have been part of the organising committee for this event, and I am very proud of my colleagues for all the work they have done in engaging both the general community, and council candidates from around Adelaide.
We may have some special guests there too.
Bring a picnic in your panniers or backpack. Hope to see you there.
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Non parlo molto italiano, pero lo sto imparando!
Today, Wednesday 13th Oct, I attended the Festa Dell'Anziano at the Fogolar Furlan in Felixstow. This event for the Italian community's elderly was put on by the Co-ordinating Italian Committee (CIC Inc.)
This was an opportunity for me to meet some of the older people in our community, and to practice my italian!
A good number of people were recognised with a ceremony and gift for their volunteering contributions to the Italian community.
My running mate in this election, Teresa Dall'Acqua Leonardi, was present as a special guest, in recognition for all the work she does, in particular for the elderly. Local State and Federal MPs were also in attendence.
I enjoyed very much the opportunity to be at this event, sharing some delicious food and having my eyes and ears opened to the richness of our area's Italian heritage!
molto bene!
This was an opportunity for me to meet some of the older people in our community, and to practice my italian!
A good number of people were recognised with a ceremony and gift for their volunteering contributions to the Italian community.
My running mate in this election, Teresa Dall'Acqua Leonardi, was present as a special guest, in recognition for all the work she does, in particular for the elderly. Local State and Federal MPs were also in attendence.
I enjoyed very much the opportunity to be at this event, sharing some delicious food and having my eyes and ears opened to the richness of our area's Italian heritage!
molto bene!
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Mullet Youth Arts Festival
The Mullet Youth Arts Festival was wrapped up on Friday 8th October with the Gala Short Film Festival Screening - I did feel a bit special as I walked up the red carpet, and got greeted by a collection of glamorous girls who were obviously loving the showbiz play element of the night. I must hasten to add, I was not the only one being greeted so enthusiastically - everyone entering the Norwood Concert Hall was made to feel special.
About 24 short films were shown, all made by young local artists aged from 12-25 years, some of whom had attended the 4 day Mullet Short Film Boot Camp held at the Payneham Library.
The quality was outstanding.
I must say the same for the Visual Arts Exhibition which ran from Saturday 25th to Wednesday 29th September. I got to see it on the very last day as I came back from Queensland that morning. I loved it so much that I bought an artwork! I was lucky enough to meet the father of one of the artists, whose work had just been purchased by Norwood Payneham & St Peters Council for display. Needless to say, he was very proud!
The artwork I chose for myself, "Wonder in the Woods" by Katrina Ortega
About 24 short films were shown, all made by young local artists aged from 12-25 years, some of whom had attended the 4 day Mullet Short Film Boot Camp held at the Payneham Library.
The quality was outstanding.
I must say the same for the Visual Arts Exhibition which ran from Saturday 25th to Wednesday 29th September. I got to see it on the very last day as I came back from Queensland that morning. I loved it so much that I bought an artwork! I was lucky enough to meet the father of one of the artists, whose work had just been purchased by Norwood Payneham & St Peters Council for display. Needless to say, he was very proud!
I am very impressed by the creativity of young people in the area, and very pleased to see that the Council is giving them the opportunity to develop their talent and ideas with the input of professional artists. By supporting young artists now, they will give back a thousand-fold to the cultural vitality of our community.
Mental Health Week
Mental Health Week is this week, 10th -16th October. Stress Less Day is Wednesday 13th October, and the Mental Health Week Walk is on this Friday 15th October from 10am-2pm at the River Torrens in town.
Mental health is something that concerns us all. One in five people in our community will experience mental health problems. That is someone you know, someone you work with, someone you love. If it is you, then you know how isolating and challenging it is to deal with mental health issues.
Many people feel that they have to bear this burdon alone, and keep it a secret. It shouldn't be that way.
By having this issue acknowledged openly, and by having community facilities and connections enhanced, we can all work together for everyone's health and well-being.
Community gardens, playgrounds, public space, safe and clean streets, trees, accessible cultural events and noticeboards, are all part of the way that Council can contribute to better mental health for everyone.
Mental health is something that concerns us all. One in five people in our community will experience mental health problems. That is someone you know, someone you work with, someone you love. If it is you, then you know how isolating and challenging it is to deal with mental health issues.
Many people feel that they have to bear this burdon alone, and keep it a secret. It shouldn't be that way.
By having this issue acknowledged openly, and by having community facilities and connections enhanced, we can all work together for everyone's health and well-being.
Community gardens, playgrounds, public space, safe and clean streets, trees, accessible cultural events and noticeboards, are all part of the way that Council can contribute to better mental health for everyone.
Saturday, October 9, 2010
CityPlan 2030
CityPlan 2030 is the long-term strategic management plan for the City of Norwood Payneham & St Peters. It was developed in consultation with the community during 2007 and 2008 and the final version was endorsed by Council in July 2008.
A review of CityPlan 2030 will be conducted every five years, and the first review is scheduled for 2012-2013.
I have read through this document with great interest and close attention, and I find it to be a commendable plan, in particular with regard to the Objectives concerning Environmental Sustainability and Social Equity. There is particular attention paid to pedestrian and bicycle user facilities, and to encouraging a healthier, more engaged community.
I am encouraged to know that the Council has these objectives and outcomes in writing, and that their decision making process is guided by this document which was developed with local community input.
I look forward to being part of a Council that is able to implement these directives, and turn words into action.
A review of CityPlan 2030 will be conducted every five years, and the first review is scheduled for 2012-2013.
I have read through this document with great interest and close attention, and I find it to be a commendable plan, in particular with regard to the Objectives concerning Environmental Sustainability and Social Equity. There is particular attention paid to pedestrian and bicycle user facilities, and to encouraging a healthier, more engaged community.
I am encouraged to know that the Council has these objectives and outcomes in writing, and that their decision making process is guided by this document which was developed with local community input.
I look forward to being part of a Council that is able to implement these directives, and turn words into action.
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Trinity Gardens Bowling Club - The Night Owls!
Last night, Tuesday 5th October, I did something I've never done before - I tried lawn bowls!
I had a great time, and I was impressed by the friendliness and welcoming attitude of everyone at the Club. I was given some coaching, a little bit of practice, and then I was set to go, playing with other newcomers and old hands.
Trinity Gardens Bowling Club is a little gem, nestled in the centre block of Albermarle, Canterbury, Hereford and Lechfield, side by side with the Trinity Gardens Tennis Club.
These clubs provide physical health, social, mental and emotional health, interaction in the public space, in the context of community engagement.
Community facilities like this are so important to our neighbourhoods. Let's work to make sure they are maintained and assisted to stay healthy and functioning.
I won a Trinity Garden Bowling Club glass!
Pictured with Club President Alex Wheaten.
Photo by Steven Marshall.
I had a great time, and I was impressed by the friendliness and welcoming attitude of everyone at the Club. I was given some coaching, a little bit of practice, and then I was set to go, playing with other newcomers and old hands.
Trinity Gardens Bowling Club is a little gem, nestled in the centre block of Albermarle, Canterbury, Hereford and Lechfield, side by side with the Trinity Gardens Tennis Club.
These clubs provide physical health, social, mental and emotional health, interaction in the public space, in the context of community engagement.
Community facilities like this are so important to our neighbourhoods. Let's work to make sure they are maintained and assisted to stay healthy and functioning.
I won a Trinity Garden Bowling Club glass!
Pictured with Club President Alex Wheaten.
Photo by Steven Marshall.
Platform and Policy
I am running for NPSP Council on a platform of practical sustainability, improved traffic safety and facilities for pedestrians and bicycle users, and accountability and access of the Council to the community.
Everyone who lives in the area, regardless of whether they are young or old, sick or well, home-owners or renters, in or out of the workforce, deserves to have a neighbourhood that is pleasant to live in and where everything works well.
Everyone deserves to have a Council that is working hard for them with the long term in mind, continuing to make Norwood Payneham & St Peters a great place to live.
Everyone deserves to feel that their Council is listening and available.
My key areas of focus are:
A more detailed statement outlining these policies will follow shortly.
I sincerely welcome any suggestions and feedback. Please email me sophianpsp@gmail.com or call me 0411 755 677 or write a short letter to 3/18 Williams Ave, St Morris SA 5068
Everyone who lives in the area, regardless of whether they are young or old, sick or well, home-owners or renters, in or out of the workforce, deserves to have a neighbourhood that is pleasant to live in and where everything works well.
Everyone deserves to have a Council that is working hard for them with the long term in mind, continuing to make Norwood Payneham & St Peters a great place to live.
Everyone deserves to feel that their Council is listening and available.
My key areas of focus are:
- traffic safety and improving facilities for pedestrians and bicycle users
- public space and community gardens
- water and waste management
- preservation of trees and urban bio-diversity
- preservation of heritage
- intelligent urban planning that utilises best practice design in energy and water efficiency and capture
- maintaining and enhancing a vibrant arts culture
- keeping rates affordable and ensuring fiscal responsibility
A more detailed statement outlining these policies will follow shortly.
I sincerely welcome any suggestions and feedback. Please email me sophianpsp@gmail.com or call me 0411 755 677 or write a short letter to 3/18 Williams Ave, St Morris SA 5068
Sunday, September 19, 2010
Adelaide PARK(ing) Day
The Adelaide PARK(ing) Day was organised on a volunteer basis by a group of young local architects and urban planners, based on the international movement started a few years back in San Francisco. From the Adelaide PARK(ing) Day website:
"PARK(ing) Day is all about:
- Calling attention to the importance of urban public spaces
- Rethinking the way we use our streets
- Creating diverse conversations about design and how we make sustainable cities
Photos by Jeremy Miller
Essential Edibles - Our local 'Urban Orchard'
I attended the inaugural "Essential Edibles" share and swap market at Joslin Reserve in St Peters last Sunday 5th September. This community initiative has been set up by Lisa from Sustainable Communities SA, and is modelled on the very successful 'Urban Orchard' model that operates in communities around the world. Adelaide already has some very successful Urban Orchards, in particular the Clarence Park Urban Orchard which started in 2007.
The idea is for home growers to be able to easily redistribute any surplus from their gardens, and get produce in exchange that they may not have been able to grow themselves. More than that, it is a way of connecting up neighbours, providing a hub for the community, reducing food miles and building relationships.
It was a beautiful morning for the first Essential Edibles market, and I had a lovely time chatting with folks and picking up some fresh home grown produce and beautiful irises. See the write up from Sustainable Communities.
Essential Edibles takes place on the first Sunday of every month, from 8.30am to 11.30am at Joslin Reserve, Fourth Ave St Peters. See you at the next one!
The idea is for home growers to be able to easily redistribute any surplus from their gardens, and get produce in exchange that they may not have been able to grow themselves. More than that, it is a way of connecting up neighbours, providing a hub for the community, reducing food miles and building relationships.
Essential Edibles takes place on the first Sunday of every month, from 8.30am to 11.30am at Joslin Reserve, Fourth Ave St Peters. See you at the next one!
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