We're a small group of locals interested in connecting community and government

A bunch of locals has been meeting over the years to talk about Democracy through bigger events, forums and informal gatherings facilitated by Democracy for Dinner. From that group a small group of people got together to see if they could reach a wider audience and help bring a range of different parts of our community together. At this stage Bryn Davies & Simon Smallchua are doing the leg work, with advice & ideas from various people, however, we'll need more help to bring all of this to reality.

We have no funding, no political alignment or policies we want to push.

Democracy is great, but it's only as good as the connection between voters, community groups and our various arms of government. Local councils have a direct impact on day to day lives of people but also struggle with budgets, funding, and a misunderstanding of their role. At the same time, we want people to represent us who will work hard, listen, engage with community, and change their mind if they need to.

These are the kinds of challenges that have encouraged us to do something.

We have short and very long-term goals (see below!) to encourage grass roots communities to step forward, drive change and keep government to account.

We are starting in 2024 to amplify community voices and to encourage people to run for council in the October elections.

(We are exploring with the Mount Alexander Shire Council on whether they can partner with us on some of this, so if they can - will let you know!)