The first Awakeri Community Reference Group workshop was held on Wednesday 15 April, bringing together 25 local participants for a three‑hour session focused on the future of Awakeri.
The workshop marked an early step in developing the Awakeri Structure Plan and was designed to encourage open discussion, shared learning and the exchange of local knowledge.
Participants then took part in facilitated discussions across five key focus areas, working in small groups and rotating between tables to explore strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and challenges for Awakeri from a local perspective.
Recreation and civic services
Discussions highlighted the importance of facilities that support everyday life and community wellbeing. Topics included public toilets, accommodation options, an events centre, hot pools, walking and cycling connections, and the White Pine Bush walk. Participants also raised concerns about roading, pressure on land for services, and the impact of domestic animals on indigenous biodiversity. Strong support was expressed for the local school and the value of education facilities to the community.
Growth and new homes
Participants discussed where future housing demand might come from and the types of housing that could be appropriate for Awakeri. Access to schools, shops, open spaces and community facilities was seen as critical to ensuring growth supports the existing community while retaining a rural feel.
Transport and movement
Transport and safety emerged as key concerns, particularly around schools and State Highway crossings. Participants noted traffic congestion during school drop‑off and pick‑up times, the high number of children in the area, and the need for safer speeds through the settlement. Ideas raised included a truck stop or transport hub, as well as the importance of clear gateways that create a strong sense of arrival, place and departure.
Water and environment
Conversations focused on flooding, erosion and sedimentation, and how waterways, drains and canals are managed and maintained. Natural solutions were discussed as an important approach, alongside improved drainage management and the integration of environmental spaces as Awakeri develops.
Identity of Awakeri
The identify of Awakeri was consistently highlighted as a strength. Participants spoke about the strong sense of community, the value of people and connections, the desire to retain a rural character, and the importance of access to nature, including Latham’s Hill tracks. These elements were seen as central to what makes Awakeri special.
The Community Reference Group is part of the early stages of developing the Awakeri Structure Plan. At this point, the focus is on listening, sharing ideas and identifying key issues and opportunities. Detailed design work — such as where houses may go, what they might look like, and how infrastructure will be delivered — has not yet been completed and will be informed by technical studies and further community engagement as the project progresses.
The next Community Reference Group workshop will be held in May, continuing the conversation and building on what has been heard so far.
