Neighbours, everybody needs good neighbours …
So says Brimbank council, which is encouraging residents to get to know their neighbours in the lead-up to Neighbour Day on March 29.
The council is offering 20 grants of up to $250 to residents who
organise a neighbourhood activity – such as a barbecue or sport in a local park – that will bring people out of their homes to spend time together.
Neighbour Day was founded by Andrew Heslop in 2003 as a reminder to check on elderly neighbours after the remains of Melbourne woman Elsie Brown were found in her home two years after she had died.
While Mr Heslop did not know Mrs Brown, he was appalled to discover that neighbours had watched piles of mail, store catalogues and newspapers build up at her front door without taking any action.
Today, the annual event reminds people to look out for one another, especially the elderly, at the local level.
Applications for Neighbour Day grants close on Friday, February 20.
To apply, go to www.brimbank.vic.gov.au/grants
