A GRASSROOTS initiative from Colorado that’s helped foster a stronger, more connected neighbourhood in Beaconsfield could soon spread to other parts of Fremantle.
The Neighbourhood Accelerator Program, launched by the Cabin network, offers a structured 10-week course designed to empower residents to transform their local areas into vibrant, supportive communities.
The program combines weekly workshops, peer accountability, and hands-on projects to help participants build meaningful relationships with their neighbours. Topics covered include organising community events, enhancing neighbourhood communication, and creating shared spaces for social interaction.
• Some of the get-togethers and activities keeping the West Beacy Bunch connected.
Beaconsfield-based sustainability gurus Shani Graham and Tim Darby from Ecoburbia launched one in their ‘hood, and are now planning to run the course in June for anyone interested in sparking up their own area.
“The West Beacy Bunch is a geographic community group of about 370 houses (1000 people) that live around where we do,” Ms Graham said.
“We are pretty active and organise three to four social events every month.
“We have an email list of 270, a facebook page of 165 and 11 street volunteers who deliver flyers each month.
“This year 18 people coordinated at least one event.”
Resilient
Ms Graham said the folk from Cabin had seen a TEDx talk she’d given on resilient communities in 2023 and asked her to come on board as a mentor.
“When I saw the curriculum I said “no way, I want to join in”.
“I did it as a participant and then facilitated two online courses.”
Ms Graham says she’s now hoping to get enough interest to run the first face-to-face courses.
“I work closely with the NAP folk and add that unique Aussie flavour. This one will be especially adjusted.
“It is not a content heavy courses… more about trying things out in your neighbourhood and getting support while you do that.”
Established in early 2025 and officially registered as a limited liability company in Boulder, Colorado, NAP has already spread to a number of countries.
The program’s impact has been notable. Participants have initiated projects such as local emergency preparedness plans, pedestrian-friendly street improvements, and the establishment of communal gathering spots.
Anyone interested in participating can register at https://nap.community/ or call Shani on 0417 941 991
by STEVE GRANT