There’s a certain kind of brain that examines an issue or a process or an idea and thinks: ‘there might be another way to do this.’

Blessed are the problem-solvers and the innovators – where would we be without them? 

Sometimes enterprise begins simply by noticing what’s missing. Our story about Support for New Mums traces a service created in response to something many new mothers need but don’t always have: practical help and human connection. 

For the Bangalow Bluedogs, a wet soccer season gave ample opportunity to reflect on improving the home ground, their community connection and participation with the club, laying the groundwork for a strong 2027 season.

Si Jay Gould, director of the upcoming DINGO Festival, reveals how the event is improvising around the standard festival model, using Bangalow’s halls, streets and unexpected spaces to create something that belongs as much to the town as to the performers. 

Even our resident gardener Carole Gamble is getting inventive. Why accept that a favourite plant stubbornly refuses to grow from a cutting when you can try marcotting and persuade it to grow roots of its own?

Innovation doesn’t have to mean starting a business or inventing something revolutionary (although two mates, bonding over beer and deciding to open a chicken shop is a pretty great example). 

Often, it’s about curiosity, recognising an opportunity, responding to change and being prepared to try something different. 

Having trouble pushing through a creative blockage or burdened with an unhelpful Inner Critic? Hypnosis (page 8-9) might be the answer to moving forward.

Communities, businesses, clubs, gardens – and (hopefully) people – all evolve. Perhaps the trick to success if knowing when to hold onto what matters and when it’s time to reinvent?

Sally Schofield