Sometimes the best thing about living in the Hawkesbury isn’t the scenery, the mountains or even the river. It’s the people who make this community what it is. That was on display at the Thrive Wellness Festival at McMahons Park, Kurrajong, on Saturday, 24 October.
There was colour, movement and plenty of conversation as families explored community stalls, wellness displays and activities. One particularly joyful moment saw a young visitor drawn into a performance featuring sweeping ribbons of pink, orange and yellow — a reminder that community wellbeing can be as simple as joining in and having fun.
Wellness goes beyond the usual definition
When people hear “wellness festival”, they might picture yoga mats and meditation. Those activities have their place, but events like Thrive offer something broader: the chance to discover local groups, connect with neighbours, enjoy entertainment and find out what support exists close to home.
The stalls and displays provided opportunities to talk about health, wellbeing, community services and the environment. A clothing stall and the Holistic Wellness Collective display were among those visible at the event, adding to the mix of things to explore.
A little koala, a big message
The WIRES wildlife rescue stall was another standout. Koala toys, information and wildlife-themed displays offered a friendly way for children and adults to learn about native animals and the importance of looking after them.
Watching a young child with a toy koala was a reminder that the next generation will inherit the responsibility of caring for our extraordinary local environment. In the Hawkesbury, where bushland and wildlife are such an important part of our identity, those early conversations matter.
Conversations beyond politics
I also had the opportunity to chat with Susan Templeman, Federal Member for Macquarie, and Councillor Mike Creed about the great work being done by community groups and the people who give their time to help others.
Mayor Mary Lyons-Buckett and Councillor Danielle Wheeler were also part of the day’s community presence. It was good to see local representatives engaging in an event where the emphasis was on people, participation and the positive work happening around us.
What makes a community thrive?
Through The Common Point, I spend a lot of time discussing the challenges facing the Hawkesbury — infrastructure, services, planning and accountability. Those conversations are important. But it is equally important to celebrate the volunteers, stallholders, organisers and families who contribute to the community every day.
A thriving community is not measured only in roads, buildings and budgets. It is measured in the relationships people build, the opportunities children are given and the support neighbours offer each other.
Congratulations to everyone involved in bringing Thrive to Kurrajong. The festival offered a timely reminder that sometimes the most valuable thing we can do is turn up, have a conversation and take part.
Because at the end of the day, the Hawkesbury is about its people.
