Pirie Voices Launch
Launching Pirie Voices – A new way forward for Port Pirie
Port Pirie is about to take an important new step with the official launch of Pirie Voices – a community-led movement that puts local people at the centre of shaping their own future.
The launch will take place on Wednesday 17 Sept, from 2.00pm – 3.30pm at the Parham Centre, Port Pirie.
Too often, programs are designed elsewhere and delivered to communities. Pirie Voices takes a different approach – it starts with the people of Port Pirie, those that live, work, play and use the town as a service hub. The focus is on listening, building on local strengths, and creating solutions together.
Over the next 12 months, Pirie Voices aims to engage in 1,000 conversations to hear what matters most to local people – their hopes, challenges, and ideas for the future. Everyday residents – parents, teachers, Elders, neighbours, and young people – will lead these conversations in their own networks, ensuring every voice has the chance to be heard.
“We’ve taken the time to look at what’s worked in other regions across Australia and what we’ve learnt is that when communities lead the way they can create long term, positive outcomes and change for their community,” said Pirie Voices Coordinator, Ms Paula Backstrom.
“Pirie Voices is our opportunity to do the same – to listen to our community and to come together to work on the things that matter most to the people who live here, work here or rely on Port Pirie.”
The initiative is supported by a growing group of partners including local industry, community organisations, council, service providers, and state government agencies.
“Pirie Voices doesn’t belong to any one group – it belongs to the community. Our partners have been generous with their time, knowledge, and resources to help get things started, and we welcome others who want to walk alongside and support this journey,” said Ms Backstrom.
Listening to 1,000 voices is just the start. Throughout the year, Pirie Voices will regularly check in with the community, share what people are saying, and take immediate action wherever possible. Once the listening phase is complete, the community will come together to reflect on the conversations, identify shared priorities, and decide on practical steps forward. Importantly, the direction will be set by the people of Port Pirie themselves. The roadmap that emerges will be community-owned and community-driven, ensuring that actions are meaningful, achievable, and truly reflect local aspirations.
How to Get Involved
There are many ways for people to take part in Pirie Voices.
- Chat with us - answer our 5 community questions at bit.ly/PV_ShapingourFuture or reach out and we can connect you to a Community Conversation Leader for a one-on-one chat.
- Become a Community Conversation Leader – Help us have conversation by hosting chats with friends, family or groups
- Partner with us – We welcome opportunities to work together with new partnerships where there are shared values.
- Follow along - for those who simply want to follow along, you can register for updates at www.pirievoices.com to stay informed about news, progress, and opportunities to get involved.
Media Enquiries Paula Backstrom Pirie Voices Coordinator
M: 0467 730 058 E: pbackstrom@pirie.sa.gov.au