Residents of Longley, Leslie Vale and Neika recently enjoyed a community picnic in Longley Park hosted by the Friends of Longley Area Group (FLAG).
FLAG is a group of local people whose aim is to care for the upper Northwest Bay River catchment and its communities.
Attendees had the opportunity to peruse information booths and join discussions throughout the day on weed identification, weed management and biodiversity, the North West Bay Catchment Plan, bushfire prevention and planning and to participate in a Patrula Nayri traditional fire methods workshop.
Kingborough Deputy Mayor Clare Glade-Wright and Kingborough Council CEO Dave Stewart were in attendance and enjoyed engaging in informal conversations with community members around local issues.
A representative from Tasmania Police also attended the day to discuss local road safety and other issues with residents.
FLAG were recipients of a Kingborough Council Community Grant which enabled them to offer free entertainment and soft serve ice cream.
Mr Shaggles brought an interactive circus performance down to Longley that included puppetry, clowning, juggling and magic.
Lower Longley-based self-directed learning centre Wheelhouse ran a fundraising sausage sizzle at the event.
FLAG represents and advocates for the interests of the communities within the catchment including Longley, Neika, Leslie Vale and Lower Longley.
Projects that the group have been working on over the past four years include weed control within the catchment, tree planting activities, river water quality monitoring, roadside rubbish removal and liaising with Kingborough Council representatives to progress an array of initiatives to enhance the local environment and lifestyle.