By Olivia Condous
Melton and Moorabool residents can connect over a coffee and a chat through an Australia-wide initiative to get local communities connected.
The Chatty Cafe Scheme has run across Australia since 2019, inviting local cafes to host a ‘Have a Chat’ table with community volunteers inviting anyone from the community to simply sit and have a chat.
Chatty Cafe volunteer Amber Kennedy organises two local fortnightly events, with one at the Little Lucky in Bacchus Marsh and one at Birdy & Co in Eynesbury.
Ms Kennedy said the ‘Have a Chat’ tables allowed people who may be socially introverted to strike up a conversation with someone they don’t know and meet new people.
“It’s just breaking down that connection barrier, to walk into a cafe and go, ‘I’m here by myself, who could I talk to?”
Ms Kennedy said the events help residents who may be new to the area or those who have lived there for years to be brave and step out of their comfort zone and make new friends.
“For me, if one person has found a connection, job done,” Ms Kennedy said.
The Bacchus Marsh fortnightly event is run in conjunction with Darley Neighbourhood House, who also welcome residents to visit each Wednesday morning for a coffee and a chat.
Ms Kennedy encouraged other local cafes to get on board by hosting a ‘Have a Chat’ table, or other residents who are keen conversationalists to volunteer.
“Any of the cafes could get involved and anybody can get involved as a volunteer.”
Bacchus Marsh details: www.bit.ly/ChattyBacchus
Eynesbury details: www.bit.ly/ChattyEynesbury
