When Community Rallies, Magic Happens

Image Credit: Annemarie Meijerink was one of many locals who volunteered to search from Parsa.

Late on a Friday night, many of us saw the worrying news that a young boy named Parsa had gone missing in the Olinda bushland. It was late, it was cold, and the situation was serious. Over the hours that followed, people across our community came together in a way that was truly remarkable—searching, sharing updates, offering support, and holding hope for his safe return.

We’re so incredibly relieved to be able to say that Parsa was found safe. And what an incredible moment that was to witness. In that shared breath of relief, something else beautiful happened too: we saw this community come together at its very best. Differences were set aside. Judgement paused. And from all corners of the Hills, people stepped forward with open hearts and willing hands—for a child they didn’t know, and a family they may never meet.

It stirred memories for me personally. Years ago, I lost my own son briefly in Kmart. He was hiding under a coat rack, completely unaware of the terror that had gripped me. It was only minutes, but it felt like an eternity. I remember the panic, the desperate search, the sheer helplessness. That experience alone was terrifying—what Parsa’s family endured was on a whole different scale.

In moments like this, the true spirit of community shines through—not just in those physically searching, but in the way people support, organise, and care for one another, even online.

I wasn’t able to be very active during the event as I was interstate with family, but what I saw happening from afar made me so proud of this community. And it reminded me: even if you aren’t on the front lines, you are helping when you contribute to keeping the group calm, informed, and supportive.

If emergencies happen again—and sadly, they do from time to time—there are a few ways you can help make a real difference:

🟡 Before posting, check if there’s already an update.
Adding your comment to one main thread keeps information together and avoids confusion.

🟡 If in doubt, message or tag an admin or mod first.
If someone’s online, we can create a central post and temporarily turn on post approvals to manage the flow of information.

🟡 Use the report button.
Reporting posts or comments that need attention helps us act faster, even if we’re not watching the feed closely.

🟡 Share verified information only.
Stick to updates from trusted sources like VicPol or SES. Guesswork and hearsay, even when well-meaning, can cause unnecessary distress.

🟡 Stay kind.
Emergencies are emotional. When in doubt, lead with compassion—especially when tensions are high.

🟡 Help boost official information.
Reacting and commenting on verified updates helps keep them visible in the group feed.

While it's easy to feel helpless watching from the sidelines, keeping the space steady, respectful and useful for others is incredibly important. It’s the quieter work of community care—and it matters.

A special mention must go to Asher, the incredible young teen who found Parsa. Your actions changed everything. 💛 And to every single person who helped—searching the bush, sharing updates, offering support—thank you.

You showed what a true community looks like in action. We should all be proud.

— Belinda x