Cr Di Bell: A community that cares

Published on 09 June 2022

How exciting to see 27 people from six countries, formally became Australians at one of the largest ever Citizenship Ceremonies at HRCC.

Welcome to our new citizens, and I wish you all the best for a happy life here.

Currently we are in the grips of a very chilly start to winter, and the streets and businesses have become visibly quieter with many locals also dealing with Covid and flu infections.

During our personal "Covid experience", I’ve been amazed at the support and calls from authorities and local health service. I also found we have a respiratory clinic next to Lister House for assistance while experiencing Covid, and if you are considered at risk due to other medical conditions, access to the anti-viral medications needs to be within the first five days.

I’d like to express our gratitude for all this professional support, and the kindness of family, friends who called with offers, and to everyone (including businesses), who delivered to our door. Wishing all who are fighting covid, flu or any other challenges all the best for a speedy recovery. Remember to ask for help if needed, we are blessed with many in our Community who will help us.

Great to hear our first repair cafe is opening to fix residents broken items including household items, small electrical items, clothing and jewellery. Horsham Urban Landcare will run the cafe, and skilled volunteers from the community will work with owners of items to teach them how to repair. 

Anyone can drop in, have a chat, a cup of tea and pick up some new repair and DIY skills. It will be located at the Senior Citizens Hall, 17 Roberts Avenue, and the first session will be Saturday 25 June, from 2pm to 5pm. For more information contact Annie Hobby at annie.hobby@hrcc.vic.gov.au or 0409914498.

We hear talk continually about more local events, and now we’ve had the announcement of a new stage at the City Oval, for more events.  However, most groups who run events have reached desperation point for volunteers.

We have businesses short of workers, sporting clubs and community groups struggling for volunteers. So how can we turn this around to fill all the gaps?  I’d love to hear any offers or thoughts on this.

Finally, on the recent serious concerns raised in the media re HRCC, I commit, in my role as a Councillor, to strive for a prompt resolution for the health and wellbeing of all.

All the best, Cr Di Bell. Email: di.bell@hrcc.vic.gov.au  Ph: 0437 949 186.