Article-Bringing Blackmans Bay together

Kingborough Chronicle | 21 May 2024; pg 12.

Bringing Blackmans Bay together

Neighbour Day was celebrated at the Blackmans Bay skate park on Saturday, May 11.

The Blackmans Bay Community Association (BBCA) used funding from Healthy Tasmania to support a community party which involved an outlook around bringing together the Blackmans Bay community and ‘reframing the space.’

Attendees were invited to create artworks throughout the skate park area with chalk and chat to special guests Kingborough Mayor Paula Wriedt, Kingston Inspector Colin Riley and independent member of the Legislative Council Meg Webb.

All-girl skate crew She Shreds encouraged children attending the event to get on skateboards and give it a go.

“This was a wonderful, community-based event that really brought together people of all ages and I can’t speak more highly of the work the association put into making this a reality,” Cr Wriedt said.

“Attendees were asked what they would like to see at the skate park in the future and I’m looking forward to hearing the suggestions.”

“To see families from all over Blackmans Bay come together and spend time in the sun, listening to music and connecting was truly special,” BBCA President Louisa d’Arville said.

Meg Webb said she appreciated the chance to chat with community members over a barbecue sausage, and praised the efforts of all those who volunteered their time to bring the event to life.

“It was a real celebration of a resilient, healthy and safe community, bringing together so many locals of all ages,” Ms Webb said.

BBCA member Antonia described the day as “atmospheric.” “People came all in a rush, often toting their skateboard, scooter or bike,” Antonia said.

“The smells of barbecue had been pervading the skatepark and beach for an hour or so, an enticing inducement and reminder of the event.

“People approached cautiously but sped up, rushing towards others they knew, or didn’t yet know but had seen about, bright smiles and greetings.

“The adults were as clear faced and shining as their children.

“There were cheerful sighs and laughs as well as tranquil focus as all corners of the skate park succumbed to colour.”

View the article as published in the Kingborough Chronicle, Tuesday 21 May 2024 pg 12:

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