The Pulse of Places | PEOPLE POWER

PEOPLE POWER What happens when communities stop waiting for permission to shape their future? Join Village Well for an inspiring discussion exploring how collective action and shared ownership can transform the places we live. We’ll begin with a specially recorded address from Michael Shuman, economist, attorney, author and a leading voice in community economics. Drawing on decades of work with communities around the world, he’ll explore how investing in local businesses and keeping wealth local can build economies that serve the people who live there. A panel discussion, facilitated Gilbert Rochecouste, will then bring these ideas home, with: • Jo-Ann Irwin, CEO, Macedon Ranges Community Enterprises Ltd, the community-owned social enterprise that operates Community Bank Gisborne & District • Bob Elkington, Coordinator, Economy and Place, Macedon Ranges Shire Council • Andrew Towner, Deputy Chair, Tourism Macedon Ranges Inc They’ll talk about how the Mt Macedon Thriving Villages Initiative is bringing eight small towns together to reimagine what’s next, with local people driving it through a shared vision and community ownership. Together, we’ll look at what it takes to turn community passion into action and create change that lasts. Because the greatest power to transform a place lies with its people. Tuesday 24 November 5.00–5.30 pm: Refreshments and networking 5.30–6.30 pm: Panel discussion Free event