Meet Bayswater’s Local Doers: Baysie Rollers’ David Lee
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 David Lee: one of the brains behind Bayswater Town Team, The Baysie Rollers.
David is originally from a close-knit coal mining community in South Wales: a town of around 28,000 characterised by its lush, green surroundings where everyone knew one another – a feeling of community he cherished.
“At the age of 16, I made the decision to move to London in search of work, staying with relatives there.”
“London was a complete departure from what I knew – a diverse, multicultural melting pot with a significant West Indian, Indian, Turkish, Greek, and more communities. Adapting to this newfound diversity was initially challenging, but over time, I embraced it.”
“My journey to Perth came after a period of working across Europe and the Middle East, including a stint in Sri Lanka for a couple of years. I embarked on a remarkable trip from the UK to India, circling the entire country. Originally, I had plans to head to Australia, but my incredible experiences in India led me to spend most of my savings. Upon my return to the UK, I had to save up again to make the move to Australia. My brother, who had recently gone through a marriage breakup, decided to accompany me. We arrived in Australia, and while my brother ventured east, I chose to settle in Perth.”
A musician for four decades, David has a diverse background: he spent his 20s working as a tradesman and an electrician, then at 28 he pursued a higher education at Murdoch University in Chinese studies, economics and communications.
Volunteering has allowed David to expand his network within the community. He’s connected with local councillors, community groups, and artists, and those connections have become like an extended family.
“In a time when isolation and loneliness are growing issues, volunteering helps build a sense of community.”
“I’m an avid hiker, and during my hikes, I always greet people. A simple smile and hello can make a significant difference. The need for human connection is fundamental, and I worry about the increasing isolation and divisiveness in our society. The Town Team movement plays a crucial role in addressing these issues by fostering community and connection.”
David’s efforts to create a better sense of place for the community are rooted in inclusivity, collaboration, celebration of diversity, and a deep commitment to addressing community needs and fostering connections among its members.
As well as this, a large focus of his Town Team volunteering is on beautifying public spaces and instilling a sense of pride in the community – projects that include murals, art installations and landscaping that have inspired a real change within the community and are approached collaboratively.
“As we work on various projects, people notice and inquire about what we’re doing. It’s not just talk; we’re actively making tangible changes. This hands-on aspect is highly rewarding.”
“We seek input and collaboration to ensure our initiatives align with the needs and goals of the local business community.”
While it’s true that volunteering demands time and effort, David believes that the rewards are innumerable.
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“Volunteering isn’t just about giving; it’s about receiving too. It’s about recognising the value of building a better community and, consequently, a better world. Through volunteering, you gain tolerance, understanding, and respect for others, and you experience personal growth.”
While it’s true that volunteering demands time and effort, David believes that the rewards are innumerable.
“The sense of pride and satisfaction that comes from knowing you’ve changed someone’s life or improved your community is worth every moment of hard work. Volunteering connects you with people and builds relationships.”
“So, ask yourself, what kind of world and community do you want to live in? Do you want to be part of a community where people look out for each other, where you know your neighbours, and where you contribute to something greater than yourself? Volunteering can help create that world, and the value you receive from it is immeasurable.”
Want to get involved and become a doer in your own community? Head to the Town Team Movement website to learn more.