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Over the past few years we’ve
seen how much residents’ associations contribute to creating a democratic
society; many such groups provide the only check-and-balance in communities.
Residents’ associations have been active in New Zealand for nearly 150
years: the organisers of Residents2010 believed it was time to recognise the
importance they play.
So the first ever conference
for Wellington Region’s residents’ associations was held on Saturday 10th
April 2010 in the Grand Hall of Parliament Buildings. This venue was chosen
because it was central and accessible to the wider region and ‘neutral
ground’ for which residents’ groups might convene.
The conference aimed to bring
together delegates from resident’s associations in the Wellington Region,
generate coverage in local and national media, spark ongoing activity within
Wellington regional residents’ associations, and provide inspiration to all
who attended. These goals were achieved.
This conference was the first
stage in raising awareness of residents’ associations to government agencies
and the media. It was designed to provide a platform for ideas to be
discussed and enable people active in local democracy and community
governance to come together, meet, network and form lasting relationships.
FWPRA covered the cost of up to
three delegates from any residents’ association so attendance was free for
these delegates. Food and drinks were provided. Other groups who were
interested in sending delegates were charged to assist with catering costs.
Residents’ associations in the
greater Wellington region were notified of the conference by a letter from
Federation of Wellington Progressive and Residents’ associations (FWPRA)
secretary Tom Law. This was followed-up by phone calls, personal visits and
media releases, resulting in a total of 91 delegates.
Remits discussed at this forum
have provided a mandate to lobby the Government for more focus on local
governance issues, and have shown leadership on behalf of the sector to the
public in general.
Residents2010 was seen by the
organisers as a starting point for a wider movement of coordination and
cooperation amongst residents’ associations across the country. This wasn’t
an end in itself; rather the beginning of a new age of community
empowerment.
You can read more about the
Residents2010 Conference
here. |
