Connecting Service Providers in the North: The Heart of Collaboration
Imagine a vibrant room at Corroboree Park Hall in Ainslie, buzzing with energy. Passionate community workers from across North Canberra, representing small grassroots charities to large government departments, are united by a single mission: making our community stronger. This isn't just a meeting—it's the Northern Region Network Meeting (NRNM), a platform where collaboration transforms good intentions into real community impact.
The Heart of Connecting Service Providers in the North
The NRNM brings together service providers from all corners of North Canberra to share, learn, and connect. Held quarterly, these meetings embody the collaborative spirit that makes our service network unique. It's more than just networking; it's about building relationships that can solve complex community challenges.
The magic happens through genuine conversations. A representative from a youth service might discover a perfect partnership with a local training provider. A community health worker could learn about a new mental health resource that could help their clients. Or an aged care provider may discover a local transport provider to improve access to essential services for their residents. These unexpected connections are the lifeblood of effective community service.
How the NRNM Works
The NRNM is a collaborative effort between Barnardos Australia and Northside Community Service. Northside generously provides the venue, Corroboree Park Hall, for the meetings and ensures the provision of tea and coffee to facilitate a comfortable and welcoming environment, while Barnardos facilitates the event.
The meetings are held quarterly, with dates announced on the CDNet Mailing List and through Humanitix, where attendees can register their interest.
The NRNM follows a format that sets it apart from other networking events. Instead of featuring one or two guest speakers, the core of the meeting involves each attendee having the opportunity to share. Participants "snake around the room," taking turns to provide a concise three-minute update on their organisation's services. This allows for a comprehensive overview of the diverse support available within the Northern region. Following these service updates, ample time is dedicated to open networking, allowing attendees to connect, exchange ideas, and explore potential collaborations.
In lieu of traditional meeting minutes, each participant is encouraged to send a brief service update to the Network Coordinator following the meeting. These individual updates are then compiled into a single document and shared with all attendees, ensuring everyone has access to the latest information and updates from across the network. This unique format fosters a dynamic and inclusive atmosphere where every voice is heard and valued.
Behind the Scenes: Making Magic Happen
As the Network Coordinator (Inner North and Gungahlin), I play a central role in organising and facilitating these gatherings. I promote and set up the registration system for the event through Humanitix and maintain an up-to-date mailing list to ensure everyone knows about the upcoming meetings. I facilitated my first meeting in November 2024 and am looking forward to hosting my second meeting in February 2025. I strive to create a welcoming and accessible environment where the atmosphere is deliberately informal. It feels more like a community gathering than a rigid professional event, encouraging participants to share openly, ask questions, and explore potential collaborations.
A Vision for Stronger Communities: You're Invited!
The Northern Region Network Meeting is more than just a scheduled event—it's a testament to Canberra's collaborative spirit. By bringing diverse voices together, we're not just discussing community challenges; we're actively creating solutions.
The beauty of the NRNM lies in its inclusivity. Whether you're representing a tiny volunteer-run organisation or a major government agency, your perspective is valued. The only requirement is a genuine commitment to improving community life in North Canberra.
So, if you're passionate about making a difference in North Canberra, consider joining the next Northern Region Network Meeting. Your contribution could be the missing piece in someone else's community puzzle.
Dates for This Year
Please note the dates for NRNM: Tuesday 11 February, Tuesday 13 May (cancelled), Tuesday 12 August, and Tuesday 11 November, 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Corroboree Park Hall. You can RSVP for the next meeting via Humanitix.
Please contact Nicole Molyneux at nmolyneux@barnardos.org.au to be added to the Network Coordination mailing list.
