On May 22, Firefly Bay & Basin hosted a powerful Community Voice Workshop that brought together 21 local changemakers and PLACE visitors to ask a vital question: “When our community shares what we know, what becomes possible for our young people?”

Held in the heart of the Bay & Basin, the workshop welcomed representatives from a wide range of community groups and organisations—including Southern Cross Housing, APM Transition to Work, BCR Communities, Music is a Verb, Headspace Nowra, Jervis Bay Maritime Museum, Vincentia Community Hub, and more. Together, they explored how we can share knowledge, listen deeply, and co-create opportunities for children and young people to thrive.

The day began with a relaxed check-in (and some great weekend activity ideas—surfing, gardening, hugging trees, and nana naps included!). But the heart of the session was a collaborative deep dive into the big picture: what are our shared hopes for the young people of Bay & Basin, and how do we turn insight into action?

Using a proven model from initiatives like Logan Together, participants reviewed proposed survey questions shaped around the Australian Research Alliance for Children and Youth’s (ARACY) Nest framework. With dots and dialogue, they gave feedback on key themes such as inclusion, access to services, learning, and community connection. From improving access to driver’s licenses and safe hangout spaces, to better intergenerational relationships and visibility of services—real ideas began to emerge.

A highlight of the day was the “Wicked Questions” session—where attendees challenged assumptions and shaped thought-provoking questions for future community engagement. The conversation circled around dreams, barriers, and the practical steps needed to support youth wellbeing, confidence, and connection.

This workshop is part of Firefly’s broader Community Voice initiative, designed to collect insights from adults who work with or care for young people. The goal? To build a clearer, fuller picture of what’s needed and what’s possible—and to make that picture a shared one.

What’s Next?

• A Youth Advisory Group will co-design questions for surveying young people.
• Community members will be invited to join a survey question deep dive and co-design session.
• Firefly will host a Community Communication Forum later this year to explore how we can better share opportunities, services, and stories that matter.

Want to be involved? If you’re interested in co-designing or participating in the upcoming forum, or if you’d like to stay connected to this work, please reach out—we’d love to hear from you.