Kendall: Small Town Haven Revival

Alison Haylett’s presentation at the NSW Department of State and Regional Development Community Economic Development Conference recounts how the village of Kendall on the Camden Haven River in NSW has seized opportunities to revitalise itself and become the arts and crafts centre of the region.

Situated around 370kms north east of Sydney and 36kms south west of Port Macquarie on the Camden Haven River, Kendall is recognised as an arts centre along with being well known for hosting many nationally acclaimed cultural events.

Originally named “Camden Haven”, Kendall was re-named in honour of Australia’s first native born poet, Henry Kendall who lived there during his latter years. 

From the early 80s the village of Kendall suffered from a variety of challenges like many other rural and regional areas.

Decline in the dairy and timber industries, loss of services, economic decline and high unemployment characterised the place.

However, when the roof blew off the community hall in a wild gale, instead of becoming yet another disaster to hit the village, it became the catalyst for some local residents to decide that enough was enough and it was time to do something about the whole situation.

People and organisations in the area became involved in establishing significant projects in which they invested their own money and which now which offer many services to Kendall and district. 

Later, Federal and State government funding, including NSW Department of State and Regional Development (DSRD) funding through the Main Street/Small Towns Program in 2003, has helped to develop a cohesive and concerted focus on the economic and social development of Kendall and district.

Kendall is a community with a heartbeat.  Its vibrancy, diversity and charm throughout its colourful history, has attracted a population whose passion for the area has fuelled Kendall’s community spirit and earned it a reputation as a great place to live.

For further information

Contact	:	Ms Alison Haylett
Address	:	Kendall Community Technology Centre 19 Comboyne Street KENDALL NSW 2439
Phone	:	(02) 6559 0055
Fax	:	(02) 6559 0025
Email	:	kendallctc@bigpond.com