Choir3006 sings for connection

A Southbank community choir has brought together residents, police, politicians and local community groups for a special gathering celebrating the role music can play in strengthening neighbourhood connection.

Choir3006, Melbourne Recital Centre’s free weekly lunchtime drop-in choir, welcomed members of Southbank Neighbourhood Watch, Southbank Police Station Commander Senior Sergeant Alex O’Toole, Albert Park MP Nina Taylor and City of Melbourne councillor Rafael Camillo to join members in song on June 10.

The event highlighted the broader community benefits of the choir, which has welcomed more than 700 people since launching in 2025.

Held at Melbourne Recital Centre and led by acclaimed choral conductor Renee Heron, Choir3006 was created as an accessible antidote to urban loneliness, offering local residents, workers and visitors a chance to step out of their daily routine and connect through music.

The program regularly attracts around 70 to 80 people each week.

A 2025 University of Melbourne Creativity and Wellbeing Research Initiative study documented the choir’s social and wellbeing impacts, with participants reporting that singing together helped them feel more connected to their community, develop new skills and leave in a more positive mood.

Many members also identified broader benefits, including feelings of safety, belonging and security through social activities, local networking and repeated contact with familiar faces.

The June 10 gathering built on that theme, bringing together community safety groups, police and elected representatives in a relaxed setting focused on shared participation rather than formal discussion.

Choir3006 runs as a free weekly lunchtime program at Melbourne Recital Centre.

People interested in taking part can register via melbournerecital.com.au •