Thriving Communities
About
By Five are committed to improving community conditions known to support children and families.
We are interested in how evidence regarding community level factors that affect child development translate to rural and remote environments.
A communities assets and challenges in the context of the social, economic, cultural, physical and service environment influence children’s development.
By Five aims to support local communities to explore and understand their own key influences on child development.
The Voice of the Child
Small actions can have a big impact on a child’s day, and their happiness. Perhaps it’s a high five and a joke at the local footy, chatting to them about their weekend, or helping them when they fall over.
Engaging the voice of children to be considered in the development and implementation of initiatives that will affect their lives is an important component of this work. So, we asked them, ‘What’s the kindest thing anyone has ever done for you?’ Over 600 local children wrote and illustrated their answers to inform our thinking around what it really takes to make a child’s day, in turn creating a sense of belonging.
Their responses were humbling, and demonstrated that we ALL have a role to play in making the Wimmera a place where ALL children and families can reach their potential.
Legends for Little Locals
‘Legends for Little Locals’ are individuals, groups or places in our community who positively impact on the lives of children.
By Five celebrate local legends who make the Wimmera a better place for our kids. We acknowledge all efforts, big and small. It could be the person in the shop who gives the kids a free stamp, to a volunteer coach who goes the extra mile, or that little town where all the shopkeepers welcome little faces, even the pub has the best kids meals!
Check out our socials and get inspired to work towards the common goal of making our region the best place for children to grow and thrive.
After all, it takes a village!
Together, let’s ‘Create the Change’ for our children.
Children’s Week 2023
Held 21-29th October 2023, Children’s Week is a national celebration that recognises the talents, skills, achievements, and rights of all children.
In 2023, members from Hindmarsh Shire, Horsham Rural City, Northern Grampians Shire, West Wimmera Shire, Yarriambiack Shire, and the By Five Early Years Initiative, brought their ideas and communities together to create a street gallery boasting artwork from our region’s children.