New Learning Site initiative launches in Kings Meadows

The program encourages community pride and citizen-led change in Launceston communities, having just finished up a 12-month residency in Youngtown.

Now in its fifth year, the council initiative aims to support communities to reach their full potential.

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The project's Community Connector Sarah McCormack said the Kings Meadows Learning Site had begun in July and she was enjoying learning about the community and connecting with the locals.

"We connect with the community and find out what they love about where they live, and if they could do anything to improve and build the community what would it be," she said.

"So, all the ideas come from the community and we work with the community and I play a facilitation, mentoring and connection role to get the projects up and running."

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Currently working part-time from the Launceston YMCA in Kings Meadows, Ms McCormack said that the community-focus of the Learning Site Program and YMCA was a perfect partnership.

"We're both about building stronger communities, so our values are very similar," she said.

Rachael Dobson YMCA acting centre manager said the ABCDE Learning Site program had already had a positive response from the community.

A proud Kings Meadows local, Ms Dobson said she loved living in the area.

"I love the diversity of the people who live here and it's changing over time," she said.

"You meet people from all different backgrounds and ages, I think it's the heartbeat of any community."

Launceston Mayor Albert van Zetten said Kings Meadows was one of the municipality's most liveable suburbs.

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"The Learning Site project is a grass-roots approach to building communities," Cr van Zetten said.

"Its goal is to empower more democratic, local decision-making, using the community's own ideas and passion."

Ms McCormack said that the program was not restricted to residents, anyone with a connection to Kings Meadows is encouraged to get in contact.

For more information, contact Sarah McCormack on 0428 109 948 or sarah.mccormack@launceston.tas.gov.au.

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