About baile as baile
When the Covid 19 pandemic hit Australian shores in March 2020, no one could anticipate what was to follow over the next 18 months and counting.
We did not foresee job losses, financial strain and international border closures.
As we approached the latter half of 2020, the Irish Support Agency recognised an immediate need for a community-based support network and social outlet for the many Irish diaspora who would not be making the annual trip home to Ireland at Christmas.
baile as baile was created in consultation with the Irish Consulate’s Le Cheile workshops and the community organisations of NSW.
Across December 2020 and January 2021, baile as baile organised, hosted and partnered on over 60 in-person and online events.
baile as baile was established in November 2020 by the Irish Support Agency.
baile as baile is a collection of community events, aimed at all ages and abilities, led by individuals and groups of the Irish community in NSW.
The phrase, meaning ‘home away from home’, aims to support and strengthen the Irish community by offering a range of activities and events where people can safely connect with others.
Through 2021 we have continued to hold monthly baile as baile events offering a vibrant and inclusive program to meet the needs and interests of our diverse community and we featured both online and face-to-face interactions in locations across Sydney.
Each event was be led by a host who kindly volunteered their time to allow people to share a new experience or learn new skills.
The past 18 months have provided us with an awareness of the importance of kinship amongst our peers and community and we are so grateful to deliver such an inclusive program, harnessing the immense talent and generosity of our community partners.
We’re really rallied together and developed a sense of deep connection with our peers. Thank you to everyone who facilitated and event and also attended an event.
The program is now at a close but you will find plenty of outreach events through the Irish Support Agency in the future.
Partners
