Benarrawa Community Development Association

Benarrawa acknowledges the Yagarabul Peoples, the Traditional and Spiritual Custodians of Yagara (Yuggera) Country. “Benarrawa” is a Yagara name for the waters and lands of the, now named, Oxley Creek. Elders gave permission to use it upon incorporation in 1995.

We build relationships with individuals, families & groups, that reflect the diversity of community to Connect, Welcome & Work together to:

Share histories and stories & build knowledge

Reflect community interests and needs

Create innovative responses to address identified needs

Enhance the strengths of the wider community, including our organisation

Develop purposeful networks and partnerships

Act for social and ecological justice.

So that working together with people we grow a resilient and connected community based on mutual respect.

Benarrawa is a small and beautiful incorporated not-for-profit community organisation. We predominantly use community development methodology by building relationships with local people across southwest Brisbane to together create, develop and sustain positive initiatives which strengthen community and address issues of poverty, social and economic isolation, loneliness and general neighbourhood concerns.

Some examples of work that has taken shape over the years:

Strengthening neighbourly connections project – engaging with residents in 5 social housing blocks in Sherwood area.

Engagement project – asset mapping of Chelmer-Oxley corridor and ascertaining any gaps/areas of need

Organising and resourcing our public events in the wider community eg. International Women’s Day, Survival Day, Neighbour Day, Sorry Day, Sustainable House day.

Auspicing groups such as Graceville Community Garden, Naturebabes Playgroup, East Timorese Community centre.

Resourcing Solidarity work – Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Solidarity group, Educators Learning Circles, providing safe spaces for people to connect with and learn from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community members, hosting Annual Elders Lunches.

Resourcing working groups – people coming together to work on an issue, an event or piece of work in relationship with each other.

Flood preparedness and resilience work in our local area

Exploring our role as a small neighbourhood centre to bring people together around Compassionate Communities.