In a vibrant pub located in Sydney’s inner west, a large table brims with a variety of colorful scrapbooking supplies, buzzing with the enthusiastic chatter of dedicated crafters.
Natasha McAnuff has established a biweekly scrapbooking group in Newtown, designed to foster community through a mutual passion for craft.
“The club appeals to individuals who are creative but may not have engaged in such activities since childhood,” Ms. McAnuff noted. “It attracts those looking to express themselves, especially after a long day at work, seeking a moment of reprieve.”
The Scrap and Yap Craft Club has successfully brought together a diverse group of participants, including university students, professionals, newcomers to the country, and scholars.
“There’s a strong desire for connection among people. Community is more important now than ever,” Ms. McAnuff remarked.
Finding meaningful connections has been a rewarding experience for many. Sula Creassidis, who moved from Spain, discovered a sense of belonging in Sydney through the craft club.
“In Spain, such clubs were uncommon, so discovering this space has been quite delightful,” she expressed. “It feels like a safe haven for women, which holds great significance for me.”
Ms. Creassidis regularly attends the club and has formed friendships, including with Catherine Tran.
“This club has reignited my passion for crafting; previously, I did it alone, but now I have a dedicated space,” Ms. Tran shared. “I met Sula here, and we had a blast. I believe everyone is yearning for community.”
Meanwhile, Gina Lee and her friends operate a film club at various venues throughout the city, aiming to introduce lesser-known films to a broader audience.
“Our goal is to gather regularly, watch films, and explore new ideas, cultures, and connections,” Ms. Lee explained.
The Subtitles Film Club specializes in screenings that feature captions, making it more inclusive for non-native speakers and those with accessibility requirements.
“Most of the organizers speak a second language at home, which leads us to watch many foreign films,” Ms. Lee added.
She acknowledged that establishing community connections can be challenging for her friends who have relocated to Australia. “We wanted to create a safe environment where people can enjoy films together and connect,” she said.
Ms. Lee expressed her enthusiasm for further developing the club and its community. “It’s incredibly special to share a packed room, experience the same film, and then engage in discussions with others who share your excitement afterward,” she reflected.
Loneliness has emerged as a prevalent issue among young adults. A survey conducted by the NSW Mental Health Commission in 2025 revealed that 10 percent more women aged 18 to 29 reported feelings of loneliness compared to the state average.
Michelle Lim, the scientific chair at Ending Loneliness Together, observed that young people are particularly vulnerable to loneliness. “Worryingly, about one in seven young individuals experience enduring loneliness, lasting at least two years,” she noted.
Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, loneliness has been increasingly recognized as a significant social concern. “Community interactions are vital, and young people have a strong desire for numerous relationships, highlighting the role of community in addressing this issue,” Dr. Lim stated. “Interest-based groups serve as a valuable, non-stigmatized means of fostering connections.”
Dr. Lim also pointed out the lack of sufficient investment in community solutions for the youth. “Young people often express that they lack a safe space to simply be themselves,” she remarked.
She praised the rise of hobby-centric clubs as a testament to the resourcefulness of Generation Z. Ms. Lee mentioned that the film club acquired 20 tickets for an upcoming screening and sold them at cost to attendees, allowing them to sit together.
“This approach alleviates the anxiety of attending alone, as participants have an established group to join,” Ms. Lee explained.
For Ms. McAnuff’s craft club, she initiated a donation jar to help cover the costs of materials. “This is not about making a profit; it’s about uniting people and providing a safe environment,” she concluded.
