Community Conversations

Community Conversations – Shaping Stronger Communities, Together.

Community Conversations was initially created as a space for deeper, more meaningful conversations with community groups. It provides an opportunity to talk openly about real challenges, share ideas, and explore what is needed for groups to remain sustainable, connected, and thriving.

Guided by the voices of local community group representatives, this ongoing initiative focuses on recognising existing strengths, encouraging collaboration, building capacity and turning ideas into action.

In the second half of 2024, council’s Community Development team ran the first Community Conversations sessions in Stawell and St Arnaud. These sessions brought together local community group representatives to share experiences, celebrate successes, and discuss future goals. Discussions explored how groups were navigating current challenges, including post-COVID volunteer engagement, an ageing population, and cost-of-living pressures, and identified the changes and support needed to help groups overcome these challenges and continue to thrive.

The below summary report provides an overview of the Community Conversations workshops and proposed next steps. 

Turning Community Conversations into Action

Thanks to some great attendance and representation at our first workshops, the first round of conversations has already led to some valuable initiatives, including:

  • A workshop series tailored to community needs.
  • A new grant writing support service.
  • The launch of an online Community Learning Hub.
  • A resource to help groups promote their events more effectively.
  • The creation of opportunities for groups to connect and celebrate.
  • Planning for a Community Expo in St Arnaud.
  • New programs to engage young people in community life.

Community Conversations - Looking Ahead in 2026

Take part in the survey. Open now until February 20, 2026

It has been 18 months since the initial Community Conversations began, and we are keen to check in with volunteers and representatives from all local community groups to hear how things are going.

We are keen to know:

  • How is your group going?
  • What challenges are you currently facing?
  • What support or ideas would help your group achieve its goals in the year ahead?

The survey takes just 5 to 10 minutes to complete and is completely anonymous (unless you choose to share your group’s name).

Please feel free to share the survey link with other members of your groups or networks - the more voices we hear, the more we will understand how to best support you. 

Thank you for taking the time to share your insights. Your feedback will help us better understand local needs and continue to support strong, connected, and sustainable community groups across our shire.

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