If the power, internet and mobile reception were out because of a natural disaster – who would you turn to first? Most likely it would be your neighbours.

In partnership with local Neighbourhood Houses, and through an Emergency Recovery Victoria (ERV) Community Led Resilience Grant, Macedon Ranges Shire Council has developed a card to get the conversation going with your neighbours.

In the Macedon Ranges we have experienced severe fires, storms and flooding.  Research shows that stronger ties in the community help individuals and communities bounce-back faster. With the Neighbours Connect card you can get ready to deal with any emergency by getting to know the people around you.

After an emergency, would you welcome a check-in from your neighbours? Let them know, and whether you are able to check in on them, with the Neighbours Connect card.

The time to build relationships is before an emergency hits. Use the Neighbours Connect card as an icebreaker to share a little about your household, and learn a little about your neighbours in return.

You can collect cards from your local neighbourhood house and your nearest Council Customer Service Centre.