Town Team movement asks people to team up to make a difference to the community

Albany’s new Town Team initiative encourages people to get out there and make things happen.

The national Town Team movement has been brought to the region by the City of Albany and the Albany Chamber of Commerce and Industry to add vibrancy to the city.

It is a citizen-led action group that works with businesses, landowners, residents and local government to connect the community.

The organisers hope if it catches on, people will start to see a lot more activity in public places.

ACCI’s Katie Nadilo said the movement was a way for people to get creative.

Anyone can nominate to form a team — it just has to create a positive experience for a group in Albany.

“The chamber recognises how important it is that we have vibrant and active public spaces across our city,” Ms Nadilo said.

“We researched some really successful example of locations that activate space really well and found Town Teams were often involved.

“Connected communities are incredibly important as they offer spaces for people to share experiences, provide a sense of belonging and social connectedness.”

Ms Nadilo said Town Teams could access up to $500 to help them achieve their goal. “It is only a small amount of money but the philosophy of Town Teams is that they are making spaces more attractive to be in, and to make the smallest effort for the maximum impact,” Ms Nadilo said.

One of the teams already active is the Proudlove Parade team, which holds Thursday markets.

Another is the Albany Moort team, which has been running picnics to bring people together for food and games.

The picnics are on Thursday nights at Alison Hartman Gardens.

“The Albany Moort team have also partnered with the Museum of the Great Southern, who bring along toys for children to play with. Everyone sits, eats, chats and has a great time,” Ms Nadilo said.

“There is another Town Team that is planning to activate the Peels Place corner within the next few months too, and they want musicians and buskers to liven up their intersection.”

For details, contact Ms Nadilo on 9845 7888 or marketing@albanycci. com.au.