Social Inclusion Week 2021
It’s time to connect again in Waterford West
Every year since 2009, Waterford West resident Robin Gallen OAM has made it her mission to bring the community together for Australia’s annual Social Inclusion Week.
Community connectivity is important to Robin year-round, and Social Inclusion Week is an opportunity for her to officially bring people together.
This year, the week is on from 20 to 28 November, with the annual Waterford West gathering on Sunday 28 November at Tygum Lagoon Park.
The event is informal and there’s no cost to attend.
“We all bring along our own food, drinks and chairs for morning tea and/or lunch, and simply spend time together,” Robin says.
“It’s a chance for us to come together as a community – a chance to meet your neighbours.”
Morning activities may include the Logan City Marine Modellers sailing radio-controlled model boats on the lagoon.
In the past, pre-COVID, the Waterford West Social Inclusion Week event would attract up to several hundred people, and Robin is keen to see those numbers return at the COVID-safe event.
‘When we have more people thinking about their neighbours, we create a better place to live. Good neighbours build strong communities.”
“Good neighbours build strong communities.”
— Robin Gallen OAM
Robin loves the diversity of her neighbourhood, and the opportunities provided at Tygum Lagoon Park for locals to connect.
“It truly is a people’s park. I love walking through and seeing people exercising, playing music, walking their dogs… people saying hi to each other,” Robin says.
Deputy Mayor and Division 5 Councillor, Jon Raven, is a long-time supporter of the event and encourages locals to pack a picnic and spend time at the park on 28 November.
“Community spirit is more than just a catchphrase. It’s created by people getting out and connecting with each other at events like this,” Councillor Raven says.
“I’m looking forward to this year’s get-together. A huge thanks to Robin for her tireless commitment to our community, and coordinating this event every year.”
Robin was the City of Logan’s 2009 Senior Ambassador (Australian Day Awards) and was awarded an OAM in 2017.
Social Inclusion Week was created by Jonathon Welch AM, founder of the award-winning Choir of Hard Knocks. It’s all about connecting local communities, workmates, family and friends. The aim is to build and strengthen relationships or networks and address isolation and exclusion of those who may be marginalised.
For more information on Social Inclusion Week and how to get involved: Social Inclusion Week
Social Inclusion Week – FREE event
Tygym Lagoon Park
Sunday 28 November 2021
8 am onwards
