Creativity breaking down isolation

Craft group: From patch-workers to knitters, community members like Marilyn Clarke head to the House on Fridays to continue projects and catch up over a cuppa. Photos: CHIPPY RIVERA

LEARN a new skill, try a different hobby, and mix with diverse people of all ages at the Ballarat North Neighbourhood House.

Coordinator Alison Demuth said the House offers a range of accessible and affordable creative and educational programs designed for any demographic to attempt and enjoy.

The aim of the centre is to link people, whether long-time residents or new to the area, while “breaking down isolation.”

“Isolation is huge in Ballarat, so we’re all about grassroots connectedness. Our classes are small so we can offer individualised service, all of our tutors are great fun, and our participants have a chat over coffee,” Ms Demuth said.

Robyn Biggin gets some sewing done at the House.

“People find us for various reasons, and we try to offer something for everyone. We have a community garden and a men’s gardening group, some people come for help with computers and digital technology, even Facetime, there’s lots of craft programs, and a family history search group.

“We don’t mind what your background is. As long as you feel comfortable to come along, visit us, or try one of our programs, you’re welcome.”

A big focus of the House now, influenced by the COVID vaccination era, is helping residents navigate and access MyGov, My Health Record and e-prescriptions, as well as the basics of properly scanning a QR code.

The Ballarat North Neighbourhood House is open five days a week during school hours at 6 Crompton Street, Soldiers Hill.

It’s run by the Salvation Army, and part of a broader Victorian network of hundreds of Neighbourhood Houses. These centres are all different but “strategically placed where there are communities that need them.”

“Through Neighbourhood Houses, the government endeavours to empower people,” Ms Demuth said.

“Sometimes people come to us, try a skill, and then go onto do that as a career. One lady, for example, came to us to do a watercolour painting class, then she went onto do fine arts at university.

“We’re a supportive steppingstone.”

Call 0491 753 307, visit the Ballarat North Neighbourhood House website or drop into the House for more information or assistance.