Bidwill is located on the northern edge of Mt Druitt and is home to over 4000 people. Working collaboratively with Bidwill Uniting, the Hive formed the Together in Bidwill working group in 2019.
Together in Bidwill includes members from a range of local service providers, government and non-government organisations and residents. By documenting Community Conversations, we are hearing that the people of Bidwill want to live in a safe, connected community, free of violence and drug and alcohol abuse.
We support many community events including Kids Days for children (0-5), sports programs and community festivals. We are excited to announce that in 2021, the Hive, along with Bidwill Uniting and Fusion Youth are supporting the creation of a mural that depicts what Black Lives Matters means to Mt Druitt residents.
“I am 100% convinced that working collaboratively with community members and other agencies across Mt Druitt amplifies all our work, makes all of our work so much more effective. One of my favourite things about the collective work has been watching community members grow in confidence as they work with all of us and become part of the team, creating change in their own lives, families and communities.”
The Hive engaged Aboriginal artists to consult with 20 young people from Bidwill. The artists explained the history and meaning of Black Lives Matter and captured what youth felt about the BML movement, what it means for their community and discovered words and pictures of strength and resistance.
The Hive also consulted with a local Aboriginal elder who shared local knowledge, her ideas and feelings on what the youth had expressed. These images and words were incorporated into the mural draft.
The Hive sought permission to use a brick wall at Bidwill Uniting facing the local school and reserve. The artist ran a workshop showing local youth how to safely use spray cans. This has now created a stencil on the wall which will guide the mural painting.
The Hive works in this community has part of a Collective team of organisations, services and local community members. Our Together in Bidwill team includes: