Meet Kondinin’s Local Doers: Toni Smeed from Kondinin Kreative

We like to bang on about how great (or rather, OK!) Perth is – but our greatness doesn’t just happen out of nowhere!

With a mission to create thriving, connected and empowered communities, Town Team Movement is all about “doers”.

We’re partnering up with Town Team Movement so we can shine a light on some of the people who help make our communities so unique, and just a few of the excellent initiatives they’re working on.

This week, we’re featuring Toni Smeed, one of the brains behind Kondinin Kreative, one of the Wheatbelt’s local Town Teams.

Let’s kick off by delving into how your Town Team came into being.

Well, there are various community groups within our Shire comprising three towns, but many essential tasks were left unaddressed. A small group of us recognised this gap and felt motivated to take action. I had been following the Town Team Movement for some time, finding its concept appealing. Attending conferences in Bunbury and Port Hedland further fuelled my interest. I resonated deeply with their initiatives and wanted to replicate them in our town, albeit with some challenges. Initially, there was a significant turnout, but when it came to the actual work, it boiled down to just four of us.

What challenges have you encountered along the way?

Wearing multiple hats and juggling various commitments is undoubtedly a challenge. Since our last event, we haven’t even had the chance to meet or discuss due to everyone needing a breather. Balancing volunteer work with personal and professional obligations poses the most significant difficulty.

Earlier, you mentioned that the Town Team Movement resonated with you. What aspects of the movement inspired you?

The simplicity of making small yet impactful changes intrigued me. Whether it’s adding a pop of colour to vacant lots or enhancing streetscapes, these seemingly minor actions can rejuvenate a community. Our town’s main street lacks traditional businesses, so we aimed to attract foot traffic through creative interventions. Seeing similar transformations in other places, like Riseley Street in Perth, further motivated me.

If resources were unlimited, what would your town benefit most from?

We have a notable landmark, Wave Rock, drawing tourists, but we lack amenities to keep them in town. A coffee shop would provide a gathering spot and encourage visitors to explore beyond the main attraction. Our goal is to showcase Kondinin’s charm and encourage tourists to linger and engage with our community.

Can you describe the collaboration between the community, your Town Team, and the shire?

Fortunately, we already enjoy a good working relationship. Operating under the Kondinin Community Recreation Council’s umbrella has streamlined processes, avoiding the need for additional committees. The shire has been supportive, providing assistance for our major projects.

The community response has been overwhelmingly positive. Witnessing the tangible transformation and community engagement stemming from our projects, like the mural renovation, has been immensely rewarding.

Apart from your involvement with the Town Team, how would you describe yourself in everyday life?

I’m a Doer, through and through.

What drives this proactive approach?

It’s ingrained in me, passed down from my family, especially my father. Growing up, we were taught the importance of community involvement. In a small town, everyone pitches in, and sitting on the sidelines accomplishes nothing.

Do you believe that the Town Team Movement has empowered communities to take action?

Absolutely. While there were already numerous community groups, consolidating efforts under a unified umbrella simplifies coordination and amplifies impact. However, more promotion and effort are needed to fully realise its potential.

Would facilitating direct exchanges between Doers across different towns be beneficial?

Yes, establishing mentorship programs and facilitating networking opportunities could greatly enhance collaboration and knowledge-sharing among town teams nationwide.

How would you encourage volunteers and engage the local community in Kondinin Kreative’s projects?

Reflecting on our recent mural renovation project, which garnered widespread praise, I believe we can leverage this positive feedback as an invitation. By extending an offer to join us and participate in future endeavours, we can harness the enthusiasm and momentum generated by our past successes.

As we conclude, any final thoughts you’d like to share?

Taking action and witnessing the impact firsthand is incredibly fulfilling. Whether it’s securing funding for major projects or initiating small-scale improvements, seeing tangible results reaffirms the importance of community involvement and the power of collective action.

Want to get involved and become a doer in your own community? Head to the Town Team Movement website to learn more.

Interview by Ophélie Barbeau, edited by Perth is OK!