Summer has a funny way of slowing everything down. Somewhere in those in-between days where no one really knows what day it is, there’s often a bit more space to read and get inspired.
So we’ve had a little rummage through the CCSS archives and pulled together the most-read Community Connect stories from last year. These were the pieces you clicked on, shared, and stuck with – stories full of local creativity, good people and the everyday moments that make community life tick.
You ready? Lets go:
Behind the Scenes with Milton Follies
This crowd favourite takes a peek behind the curtain at Milton Follies — a much-loved local theatre production powered by volunteers and a shared love of putting on a good show. It’s funny, warm and deeply local, capturing how creativity brings people together in unexpected ways. Read it here
Listening to Our Community: What We Learned
This one struck a chord. It shares what we heard across our community — from what’s working well to where things feel a bit harder or disconnected. The themes that kept coming up are worth revisiting as we head into a new year. Read it here
Sow Good Festival: Nature, Creativity and Community
Set at Yumaro Nursery, this story goes behind the scenes with the crew bringing the Sow Good Festival to life. It explores what inspired the festival, how collaboration sits at its heart, and what’s planned when it returns later this year. A great snapshot of ideas growing from the ground up. Read it here
Christmas Cheer, Powered by Volunteers (and Probably Coffee)
Part guide, part love letter to community organisers, this story rounds up festive events happening across the region – all in one place. If you’ve ever wondered how much effort goes into Christmas cheer, this one says it all. Read it here
Meet ORRCA: Looking After Marine Life Along Our Coast
This popular read introduces ORRCA and the hands-on work they do caring for marine life along the South Coast. From rescues to education, it offers a glimpse into the passion and commitment behind the organisation and its volunteers. Read it here.
Whether you dip into one or work your way through all five, we hope these summer favourites offer a bit of inspiration and a reminder of just how much good stuff is happening around us, every day.