WHO IS WHO IN THE HOOD?

We moved to our current home five years ago and have been super occupied with home renovation, starting school, lock down blues and life in general.

We occasionally met someone living in the street, started a chat, patted a dog, but didn’t really get a chance to hang out with most of them. That all changed at the end of last year when one of the other friendly residents Ali and I finally sat down, mocked up an invite and did a letterbox drop in our street and the two other blocks around us.

Our plan was full of unknowns. Should we make it two hours long or longer? What if no one shows up? Will others bring food? Can we close the street off for traffic and so on. Worst case scenario a few of us would just have a nice time hanging out.

The application was submitted then approved by the council, street closure signs were provided, enough chairs set up for everyone and one by one our neighbours started joining in.

Turns out, worrying was needless. Food was plenty and tasty. Some brought their specialties while others chose convenience. The weather was perfect and most importantly people showed up. There was fun and interesting conversation.

Our residents reflect the essence of Reservoir in general. Our neighbours come from all walks of life; teachers, builders, doctors, lawyers, artists, business owners, white collar, blue collar, born in Australia, born overseas, speaking multiple languages at home or English only.

There was plenty we all had in common. We were all keen to meet each other and create meaningful relationships amongst ourselves. We all want our streets to be safe and green.

The end of the party also proved to be the beginning of something new. We all walked away with a fuzzy feeling in our hearts (speaking on behalf of everyone) and not just due to the drinks we had. Now we don’t just tentatively smile or wave to each other when walking past but stop for a chat. Our new WhatsApp group is perfect for offering up surplus garden grown veggies, warning everyone of any suspicious activity, and my favourite bin night messages. We no longer need to sneak around to our neighbours’ bins to find surplus space when needed…

Cheers to our new chapter!