Neighbourhood Day, held on Sunday 31 March, encourages members of the community to connect with, and celebrate the connections we have with the people living in our local ‘hood.

This year’s theme is ‘creating connections to combat loneliness’.

Mayor of Clarence, Alderman Doug Chipman said there were a number of ways to reach out to our neighbours to reduce isolation and build connections in the community.

“We can all help to increase connections to our neighbours, such as organising a gathering of neighbours for a barbecue, sharing in a game of sport, having a cuppa or simply introducing yourself to a new neighbour in your street and having a chat,” Mayor Chipman said.

“These gestures can go a long way to reduce isolation.”

Council is also calling for nominations from the community for the ‘Neighbourly Award’.

“The Neighbourly Award recognises someone you think is a kind and caring neighbour, and is one way Council can support and enable community members to connect with others and reduce loneliness,” Mayor Chipman said.

Nominations for the Neighbourly Award close on Sunday 10 March and can be completed online on the Live Clarence website at www.liveclarence.com.au. A hard copy form is available at Council Offices.

Community members who are keen to host a Neighbour Day event, can register at www.neighbourday.org. If you plan to hold an event in public place in Clarence, please remember to apply for a permit with Council by phoning 03 6217 9500.

Neighbour Day is organised by Relationships Australia. Further information, resources and ideas for Neighbour Day events are available from www.neighbourday.org.  You can also stay up-to-date through social media (Twitter, Facebook and Instagram).