The Balmain Peninsula has an enviable community feel, but when you move to the area for the first time, it can feel like you have no connections, no support and no one to just chat to.
Parents with children tend to find the adjustment a little easier as they will easily meet other parents they can chat with, but for those who are older, single, or a couple without children, it can be difficult at first.
The great thing about the community feel on the Peninsula is that there are plenty of community groups and organisations that you can join to start meeting people in your new community.
Why you need community
Did you know that having a community around you is essential to your wellbeing? Being part of a great community can help you feel as though you are part of something greater than yourself, that is there to support you in times of need, and help you support others ‒ without question. We are enabled to connect to other people, to explore our own interests, to share and to learn.
An important part of being within a good community is having the empowerment to act on change and to make better choices. It is all about influencing positive change and making a difference to those around us.
Active community groups in the Inner West
Some of us love getting out and being active and meeting new people, and the Balmain Peninsula offers plenty of opportunities to get involved.
Walking groups
There are a number of walking groups across the Peninsula and Inner West with everyone welcome to join in.
To name just a few local groups: the Rozmain Heart Racers meet multiple times a week in Rozelle, Curves Petersham meets every third Sunday of the month in Lilyfield, and the Leichhardt Walk for Health group meets in Lilyfield on a Tuesday morning.
Environmental volunteers
Bushcare programs are back up and running and are a great way to meet like minded people. There are groups running out of Balmain, Birchgrove, Marrickville, and Newtown. The groups allow you to volunteer to help build and protect habitats for native wildlife.
On the water
Our location on the Peninsula allows for a great deal of water-based activities. The Balmain Peninsula is home to both the Balmain Sailing Club and the Balmain Rowing Club. Both groups offer classes to beginners and this can be a great way to meet new people.
Laid-back community groups
Sometimes you might just prefer to meet people in a more relaxed environment, and there are plenty of opportunities and groups where you can meet and chat.
The Rozelle Neighbourhood Club runs various events throughout the week including art and music programs for those with an intellectual disability, a community choir, a theatre, U3A (university of the third age), a singing group and a Knit and Natter group.
Book clubs
When you love books, there’s a whole community waiting for you. The Friends of the Balmain Library Open Book Group meet regularly for a discussion and debate about the chosen book of the month. There’s no charge, the book group is open to everyone, and you don’t need to attend each meeting, allowing you to fit in work and family life. There’s a chance to socialise at the end of every meeting over light refreshments.
Looking for more Inner West community activities?
The Inner West Council has a huge range of community activities, community groups and organisations across the arts, children’s activities, history and heritage, seniors and youth. And if politics is more your scene, you can Google to find political discussion groups in the area. And don’t forget Facebook groups that can often help you tap into your community.
If you have only recently moved into the Peninsula, and haven’t yet made community connections, don’t stress. With a welcoming community and organisations open to so many, you’ll soon find your new friends.
Can we help with your Inner West home?
Whether you’re ready to sell or need help to rent your investment property, we have the experience and local knowledge to make your property journey easier.
Looking for help selling your home or renting your investment property? Our team at Belle Property Balmain support homeowners across Balmain, Balmain East, Birchgrove, Rozelle and Lilyfield. Feel free to get in touch for a no-obligation discussion or property appraisal.
