Judith Cook – the sticky that holds a community together

“Judith is the sticky that holds our community in her caring heart and capable hands."

This is how CHL Community Development Manager, Kate Daddo, describes Judith Cook, community champion and Bangs St local. 

Judith, who lives at the Prahan development managed by community housing organisation CHL, is the type of person who naturally brings people together. 

When we meet Judith, it’s easy to see why. She’s hosting the weekly coffee club and is leading a lively discussion with residents.   

Each person is invited to share something from their childhood. This quickly leads to laughter, connection, and a few thoughtful moments among the diverse group in attendance.  

For Judith, creating these moments is what matters.  

“The reason I love living here is because I’m living with the people that my heart is for... and that’s why I want to include everyone into different things.”  

It comes as no surprise to find out that the coffee club is Judith’s initiative – although it didn’t start out that way.   

“When I first came here, CHL had big meetings on a Tuesday night and everyone was talking over each other and there were no real answers,” says Judith.   

“We reinvented it. Come and have Devonshire tea – and I do the sandwiches, and I’ve taught Murbarek (CHL Community Development Coordinator) how to do the sandwiches." 

Judith delivers this last bit with a twinkle in her eye.   

The change has made a real difference.  

“It’s going so well, there’s more people coming and they’re staying for longer. It’s really good that’s it’s all come together. Community is so wonderful.”  

In addition to the coffee club, residents at Bangs St are also invited to take part in variety of activities. These include “crafternoons” (also run by Judith), language, exercise and art classes as well as, community gardening groups.

For Judith, who is also a chaplain with St Vincents Hospital and volunteers in her spare time, the motivation is simple – to ensure no one is left behind.   

“Look at all these lovely people. If someone doesn’t do something, they just stay in their building. I just feel I need to do something to help them reach out of their building.”  

And thanks to Judith, more people are doing exactly that.

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