Recently it was decided to meet less frequently, quarterly, and it was  proposed that our meetings would have more of a ‘workshop’ nature to them, tackling different topics each quarter e.g., how to get the most out of the Notice Boards.

But of course communication is a two way process, to gather information as well as receive information.  Our Communication strategy endeavours to  provides a structure for identifying events (e.g., issues, problems, and actions) that need to be addressed; in considering residents, agencies, the Office of Housing and all others interested parties. It then looks at creating the most appropriate message and develops a strategy to deliver this information in the best possible and timely way.

A good Communication strategy is the "what, who, why, when, how, and where" of conveying a message. In this fast paced world, information travels at the speed of light and can lead to undesirable consequences if only half the story or inaccurate or misleading  information is given.

The timing of the information is also critical. Deliver the message too soon and it can be forgotten in the fast pace of the world we live in, deliver the message too late and it may be difficult for people to comply.

The role of the Communications group is to:

Consider the communication needs of the Collingwood estate community

 Be available for consultation and make recommendations on communication strategies and methods to the NAT, governments, agencies and business who work for or with this community

Maximise communication opportunities for the community particularly the intranet provided via the Wired Community @ Collingwood Project

Promote wide community input to the Wired Community @ Collingwood project

Be aware of and promote the communication needs of estate residents especially relating to language and literacy

The Communications Group is open to all residents and agencies with an aim to improve the way we communicate with each other as well as the wider community.

Residents with bilingual skills are particularly encourage to join the group to ensure that the messages are conveyed to their particular community groups.