WHEN emergency services come to Coledale, it's often in response to an incident.
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The Coledale Community Centre Emergency Services Day aims to change that.
"I think it's a need, like anything really it's about building those relationships and having people be comfortable," Tamworth Ability Links' Rebecca Browning said.
"We all know, it's not a secret that a lot of houses have burned down here and it has been that way for a long time.
"It's about building those relationships with the emergency services when you're worried about the community."
The Emergency Services Fun Day is an opportunity for anyone in the community to meet face to face with first responders and talk to them about any concerns, enjoy a free barbecue and take part in some agility challenges.
And, the Coledale Community Hub wants as many people from the community who can to attend, even those from "the other side of the tracks", Tamworth Family Support Service community development worker Rebecca Butler said.
"I think perception is probably the biggest challenge," she said.
"That negative stigma that's linked with Coledale is certainly not the case - it's a great little community and everyone who attends these days love it and support their community."
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A number of emergency services are expected to attend, including NSW police officers, Fire and Rescue NSW firefighters, the Rural Fire Service, NSW Ambulance paramedics and State Emergency Services.
Information about the services and their roles in the community will be provided on the day, along with an opportunity for community members to discuss their concerns and ask questions.
Ms Butler said she hopes the day will be an opportunity to not only strengthen relationships but even give younger children in Coledale employment options to aspire to.
"We want the services to hear the community as well, about what we need down here and vice versa," she said.
The Emergency Services Fun Day will be held on April 17 in Granny Munro Park from 11am to 2pm.
Madeline Link
Madeline Link is a journalist at the Newcastle Herald, with a focus on Lake Macquarie City Council. To keep up with my stories, follow my Twitter @madeline_link, for tips email madeline.link@newcastleherald.com.au.
Madeline Link is a journalist at the Newcastle Herald, with a focus on Lake Macquarie City Council. To keep up with my stories, follow my Twitter @madeline_link, for tips email madeline.link@newcastleherald.com.au.
