Macedon Ranges council has launched the neighbours connect card to help residents get to know each other and stay safe.
The council has developed the card in partnership with local neighbourhood houses, after receiving an emergency recovery grant.
Woodend Neighbourhood House manager Melissa Baker said the cards were developed following the 2021 storms.
“The feedback and the way the community said they supported each other was connecting with their neighbours… [and] helping each other out,” Ms Baker said.
“[It’s] good to strengthen the connection with neighbours.”
Macedon Ranges council said that research shows having stronger ties in the community helps individuals and the wider community to bounce back following emergencies and natural disasters.
The council has encouraged residents to use the cards to share some information about their household and build a relationship with neighbours before an emergency hits.
Ms Baker said the cards are particularly good for residents who may have moved during COVID-19 and have not been able to meet a lot of people.
“I think with covid maybe people have moved here from Melbourne and don’t know a lot of people yet,” she said.
“[The connect cards] opens that communication and it can be done in a way that’s… less confronting.”
The cards, which were made possible through the Emergency Recovery Victoria Community Led Resilience Grant, are available at local neighbourhood houses and at council customer service centres.
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Zoe Moffatt
