.png)
OverviewThe LG Professionals SA Community Development Network is open to those working in the field of community development or community services. Join community development practitioners from across South Australia for a day of bold ideas, practical insights, and real-world stories that reflect the evolving role of local government in shaping stronger, more connected communities. With keynote speaker Dr Peter Westoby, a thought-provoking panel, and case studies from councils leading the way, this is your chance to be inspired, challenged, and re-energised for the future of community development. All local government professionals with an interest in, or responsibility for, community development or community services are encouraged to attend. Benefits of attending this conference
Previous attendees have said:
| Key Details The LG Professionals SA Community Development Network took place on Friday 25 July 2025 at the U City Function Centre. Resources
Contact
|
Megan Down
Megan Hay
2025 - LG Professionals SA Community Development Network Conference 'Taking it to the Streets'
On Friday 25 July, more than 100 community development professionals and local government staff representing 28 councils from across South Australia came together at UCity for the 2025 LG Professionals SA Community Development Network Conference, Taking It to the Streets.
When you gather a room full of community development professionals, you know you’re in for a high-energy day. These are local government staff who are naturally curious, fascinated by people and born storytellers.
The day began with keynote speaker Dr. Peter Westoby, who opened with a light-hearted disclaimer: “My wife told me to tone down my language today.” Thankfully, he didn’t. His candid and engaging delivery only enriched his deep insights into the art and science of community development.
The conference theme focused on grassroots engagement, supporting community-led action and recognising the evolving role of council as initiator, partner, supporter, and sometimes, the one who simply steps aside to let community leadership shine.
The program featured a diverse range of speakers. Sarah Hill from Imagine Uraidla shared an inspiring story of how residents have embraced and celebrated their community’s unique strengths to build local pride and action. Arianna Watson from Collab4Good motivated and challenged attendees to rethink the potential of social enterprise and the role councils can play in supporting these innovative, community-focused models.
Local council stories were also a highlight, including:
- Onkaparinga’s gravel project, a complex project that resonated in the room
- Wakefield Regional Council’s economic development initiatives presented with humour and insight by local government staffer and could be part-time comedian Les Pearson; and
- Creative, street-based projects from the Cities of Prospect, Campbelltown, and Charles Sturt
- A Campfire activity where colleagues from different councils gathered around a ‘campfire’ of prompted questions
To close the day, Dr. Gemma Munro delivered a powerful and affirming message. She called out the outdated stereotype of community development workers as the “fingerpainters” of council- a label that fails to capture the complexity, creativity, and deep curiosity required to do this work well. Gemma left us with seven practical tips to take forward, and a final moment that none of us will forget! With everyone on their feet, hands on their hips in a collective power stance, we declared a mantra together to carry back into our work. We can’t reveal it here - but if you were there, you know.
A heartfelt thank you to the LG Professionals SA Community Development Network Committee for organising such a rich and inspiring event, to Dr. Bev O’Brien for expertly emceeing the day, and to all the attendees for showing up with enthusiasm and investing in their professional growth.
Tracy Johnstone
Manager Community Services & Social Development
LG Professionals SA Community Development Network Committee Member