Our work with the community led to the evolution of the  Lakelands Heartbeat Group and initiatives such as the ‘Think Lakelands’ campaign to encourage local events and community projects, an environmental strategy and youth development programs. Each of these also fuelled a sense of belonging, involvement and connection; an entrepreneurial sense of pioneering that often accompanies co-creation.

The Global Financial Crisis contributed to large development (such as the shopping centre) being delayed for many years. The lack of an obvious hub sharpened the focus on the schools in the area – particularly Mandurah Baptist College – to become this hub of community. 

When the shopping centre was finally planned, it was a highly intentional process to ensure that management had a strong community emphasis. The result has been a hub for more than those who call Lakelands home.

Lakelands is now home to primary schools, a private college, shopping centre, the City of Mandurah Community Centre, parks and a lifestyle village. 

The community’s environmental initiatives, like the tree planting program, area now integrated into the local school curriculum and youth leadership program. This tree planting initiative has seen the planting of over 20,000 saplings over the course of fourteen years.

Another key project was conceptualising, seeking sponsors and bringing parties together to set up a Repair Café. The monthly event at a local shopping centre is run by volunteers who share their valuable skills and encourages people to have household items repaired rather than throwing them away and adding to landfill. 

Recent data shows 98% of residents are proud to belong to the Lakelands community. It’s a satisfying outcome resulting from involving community members so that they can build the skills, attributes and attitudes of people to live rich and full lives connected together.