The 1000 Voices Byron Shire survey has now closed, marking a milestone in an extraordinary community journey to unlock barriers to solving homelessness.
"Over the past seven weeks, hundreds of people from right across the Shire – young people, parents, workers, business owners, older residents, as well as people with lived and living experience of homelessness – have taken the time to share their experiences, ideas and perspectives on homelessness and housing," Ending Rough Sleeping Backbone Lead, Anna Lockwood said.
As of Monday 15 September, 700 surveys had been counted as part of the project, with more paper surveys still making their way back to Council.
"The generosity and openness of our community has been deeply moving, and I'd like to say a huge thank you to everyone who took the time to share their views and their voice," Ms Lockwood said.
"Each response adds to a much larger picture of who we are, what we're experiencing, and how we want to shape the future of our Shire together.
"At the very heart of this project were the team of Community Researchers - a diverse and caring group of local people who stepped forward to make sure voices from every corner of the community were heard," Ms Lockwood said.
"They chatted with neighbours and local businesses, held conversations in cafés, at markets and sporting events, and walked alongside people who might not otherwise have had the chance to share. Their dedication, empathy and persistence have been the heartbeat of 1000 Voices, and the Backbone Team as well as the Local Leaders Group of the Ending Rough Sleeping Collaboration Byron Shire extend the deepest gratitude to them."
"This work has also been supported by a wide network of local organisations, services, and community groups, all playing a part in ensuring that this process was inclusive, respectful and far-reaching. Together, we've shown what's possible when a community comes together with curiosity, care and placing relationships first," Ms Lockwood said.
On Tuesday 11 November, the Ending Rough Sleeping Collaboration will host a Community Gathering at the Byron Bay Surf Club to report back to the community on the 1000 Voices project.
"This will be a significant day for our Shire – an opportunity to hear the insights from the survey, reflect on what we've learned, and, most importantly, work together to shape a shared agenda for action," Ms Lockwood said.
"This event is open to everyone. Whether you filled out a survey or not, your presence and perspective are valued. It's a chance to connect, to listen, and to be part of shaping how we respond as a community to one of the most pressing issues of our time," she said.
Register to attend the Community Gathering on 11 November via Humantix or through Council's website.
