Children to take over Sydney street in car-free play event
Children will take over a section of Sydney Street in Mowbray tomorrow (Tuesday 16 June). The road will be transformed into a car-free play area from 14:00 to 16:00.
What is happening
The neighbours get together event will close the stretch of Sydney Street between Selby Road and Hornsey Road. The road will be opened up for community activities. Local residents have organised the initiative to bring neighbours together. It will also give children the freedom to play safely outdoors.
Activities on offer
Children can take part in soccer, skateboarding, and drumming. These activities give them the chance to try something new. They can also spend time with friends and neighbours.
The idea behind the event
Organiser and resident Marcella Gurella said the idea grew from a desire to connect people in the area.
“The aim is to shut down the street to cars so children can play freely,” she said.
Gurella noted a shortage of spaces where neighbours can get to know one another. “This is a simple way for people to interact and get to know their neighbours. We do not have enough opportunities to do that. We can do it in a safe environment and we invite people to come through to connect and be inspired.”
Plans for the future
Gurella hopes the Youth Day event will be the first of many. “We hope to have multiple Open Streets events in spring that will be open to the whole area. We believe we are bigger together,” she said.
A space for all ages
Fellow organiser and Sydney Street resident Marlise Richter said the event would celebrate children. It would also create a welcoming outdoor space for community members of all ages. Richter encouraged residents to attend and take ownership of the day. She sees it as a starting point for stronger community ties.
How to attend
The event is open to residents from Mowbray and surrounding areas. No registration is required. Residents are encouraged to simply show up, take part and enjoy the day with their neighbours.
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