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Published on 20 March 2025
Northern Grampians Shire residents can download a free smartphone application designed to foster community connection and provide vital information before, during and after emergency events.
The CommunityConnect app, which launched this month, simplifies staying connected, engaging with community events and supporting local businesses.
Mayor Karen Hyslop said the app provided real-time updates to help make residents’ lives easier while keeping them engaged in the community.
“The app will encourage interaction among community members and is designed to foster a sense of belonging and collective responsibility,” she said.
“It’s also perfect for people who don’t use traditional social media, as it’s a centralised noticeboard with a wealth of information at your fingertips.
“The premise is that you don’t need to visit multiple websites or look for business pages or contact details through various online searches. Instead, you log in to CommunityConnect and the information you need is in one place.”
Cr Hyslop said the app provided a platform for local businesses, community groups, residents and landowners to engage, share information and promote things happening in their region.
“Among its key features is a business directory, so people can connect with businesses, community groups and other organisations,” she said.
“The app also has an events directory, which showcases local events, meetings and other community activities. There is a digital noticeboard, which you can easily browse and search for relevant information.”
Cr Hyslop said council staff would use the app to share important emergency preparedness and recovery information.
“This gives us an opportunity to quickly get information to the people who need it most, in the case of events such as the Grampians bushfires in December and January,” she said.
“This is not only key during an emergency, but also through the recovery phase, which as we know can be ongoing.
“It will also allow us to push out notifications about preparing for emergencies.”
The app is free and is available for both Apple users, via the app store, and Android users, via the Google Play store.
People can click here for more information about CommunityConnect.