The 2014 Camden Town Centre Enhancement Strategy has faced controversy and distrust from residents and stakeholders, leading to a significant trust deficit. The proposed decked car park and lack of early and robust community engagement have fueled skepticism and discontent. Community consultation principles and the mayor's defense of the process are under scrutiny. Stakeholder concerns about legitimacy align with international practices.
Tag: Community identity
Exploring Historical Themes: Pictorial History Camden & District Presentation Summary
This presentation examined the role of the historian and researcher and presented the importance of history and the role of a historian. Dr Ian Willis discussed the significance of historical consciousness and collective memory, emphasising the role of a historian as a researcher, analyst, interpreter, and storyteller. The presentation also highlighted "Pictorial History Camden & District," a book by Kingsclear Books, and covered aspects such as structure, select bibliography, index of names, and district maps. Additionally, various related sources and themes, such as the Whiteman and Macarthur families, were explored. The presentation concluded with suggestions for experiencing the past through community festivals, local studies, and living libraries.
Camden, the making and re-making of familiar places
This presentation at the WEA-RAHS Seminar Series on 28 October 2009 at History House, Sydney, explores the conflict between urban expansion and the desire to preserve Camden's identity as a country town. It delves into the tension between nostalgic ideals and the reality of modern development in the area.
Community Partnerships: Are they all that they are cracked up to be?
In 2007, Peter Scrivener reported on the community partnership between the Camden Historical Society and Camden Council, highlighting the amicable relationship and its intended outcomes. This serves as the basis for scholarly work on community partnerships. The partners' mutual benefits, clear objectives, and common goals have made the partnership successful. Informal and formal linkages and evaluations ensure its continued success.
Public Art, Young Women Artists Have Something to Say
Young women artists from the Camden area have had their artworks on public display in a program called Something to Say. The art installations were located outside the Camden Council administration building at Oran Park NSW from late 2023 to early 2024..
Despinaโs story, fond memories of living in Campbelltown
A former resident of Campbelltown, Despina Maddalena, has recalled her time living in Campbelltown in the early 2000s. She has fond memories and is quick to defend the city from stereotypes and misinformation.
Narellan Library Murals, a wall of public art
There are two colourful mural artworks along the Queen Street frontage of Narellan Library. These artworks were commissioned by Camden Council in 2017 as a collaboration between mural artist Mandy Salter and the area's young artists as part of a Youth Participation Public Art Project.
Camden Historical Society, 60 years of local history, 1957-2017
In 2017 the Camden Historical Society celebrated its 60th anniversary. Founded in 1957 the aim of the society has been to tell the Camden story and the local identities and events that are part of it.
Flooding in the Hawkesbury-Nepean River Valley
The latest heavy rain in the area has sparked concerns about potential flooding, bringing back memories of past events. The Hawkesbury-Nepean River valley's unique landform features contribute to fast-rising and dangerous floods. This situation has led to considerable anxiety and trauma, prompting the need for emotional and trauma support in the affected communities.
Macarthur FC: Symbolism, Regional History, and Nationalism
Macarthur FC, the newest A-League team, represents the Macarthur region in soccer. The club's identity is rooted in regional symbols and colors, including ochre to honor the local Dharawal Aboriginal people. Their use of the Macarthur name signifies the colonial and regional history. The club's presence is expected to shape Macarthur's identity and visibility nationally and internationally.
