Voices for Bendigo officially launched at Bendigo Library Gardens on Saturday, October 24, bringing hundreds of people together to talk about their community and its future.
A community-led, nonpartisan movement, Voices for Bendigo is founded on truth, integrity, respect, and inclusion. Inspired by Voices for Indi, it aims to strengthen community participation and give local people a greater say in decisions affecting their lives.
Special guest speaker Jon Alexander, co-host of the podcast How to Save Democracy, said democracy is growing and thriving and in some places, becoming deeper and richer.
“We all need to be staring at that. Not just staring at the chasm, because if you fall into the chasm, you’ll fall down,” he said.
“We have a problem when we think democracy equals elections. We need different forms of democracy; we need participation, we need community, and for those things to have structural power.”
The gathering also offered an opportunity to express support for Helen Haines, whose commitment to community and respectful politics has inspired the group.
Voices for Bendigo is providing a platform for people living in Rochester, Heathcote, Bendigo, Castlemaine, Kyneton and all the communities in between to make their voices heard. Visit voicesforbendigo.com.au to find out more and fill in the community survey. The priorities raised will be shared with election candidates, who will be asked how they intend to respond.
The group’s work will continue beyond November’s election, with a focus on listening, encouraging participation, and holding elected representatives accountable.
