There are a few perks that come with being the editor of a community newspaper.
For starters, there’s access to an impressive array of talented and connected locals who’ve proffered me advice on sourcing gardeners, builders, photographers, venues and much, much more.
Whenever I feel like a new food adventure I head straight to The Westsider’s Food and Drink section for a few tips from passionate food writers like Deborah Ong and Gary Lee, who not only know all the best places to eat in the west, but frame their reviews in a cultural context rarely offered by other publications.
We have amazing cooks like Marie Muccio and Lizzie Moss who generously share their family and favourite recipes for all to recreate. And of course there’s the wonderful folk at the Wyndham Women’s Support Group, whose recipes and stories we’ve been publishing for a few months. These inspiring women have created the most beautiful community for themselves where they meet weekly to connect and bolster each other. I had the opportunity to attend their 9th Birthday celebration recently and witnessed first hand the love and warmth in the room.
Which brings me to the best bonus of all. Community. The Westsider introduces you to wonderful communities throughout the West, but also allows you to be part of the community building process.
It’s been said that charity begins at home. Well, community begins in the heart, and community is the heart and soul of living. If you’re passionate about building community, and want to strengthen connections, get in touch and tell us about it. We’d love to share your community building story with the rest of the west. Be part of The Westsider community, and invite others to be part of yours.
Barbara Heggen
Got a comment? Keen to submit an article? Like to support or advertise in a community paper? Feel free to get in touch at: editor@thewestsider.com.au
