By Tyler Wright
The Kalorama Collective has initiated a monthly dinner at the Olinda Community House for ranges residents to re-connect after the June storm last year, in partnership with Olinda Community House Inc and The Soup Angels.
From Tuesday 3 May, locals will be able to enjoy live music, a cosy fire-pit and and home-made soup with the Dandenong Ranges community from 6:00pm to 9:00pm.
Nia Beardsley is Chair of the Kalorama Collective and said the group was formed by locals after the storm to provide meals, showers and supplies to those in need.
Since then they have been able to facilitate art classes for locals impacted by the storm, and have started group cooking sessions and other informal meetings.
“Catch ups in the park, small dinners and social gatherings have led to what residents have said they’d like to see happen again – dinners together, to laugh and chat, encourage and support each other,” Nia said.
“This is a unique experience and to bring back those who are wanting to reconnect and share in their journey, share ideas to move forward, discuss how to better prepare and plan for future natural disaster events and emergencies, or simply be part of continuing to support each other is going to help our community recover together.”
The option to bring a plate to share is also available, and coin donations for dinner are gratefully accepted by not required.
Olinda Community House is located at 79-81 Olinda-Monbulk Road, Olinda VIC 3788.
For more information, contact kaloramacs@gmail.com.
