Pinakarri Community Inc

Pinakarri means “listen deeply” or “undivided attention to the other” (literally, “ear stand,” in the Nyangamarta Aboriginal language). Our statement of intention: “Through Pinakarri – listening deeply – we learn to love”. This is an aspiration and is explored, practiced and realised in many ways, personally and as a community. However no dogma associated. We are a suburban intentional community of about 35 women, men and children in 14 houses (eight low-moderate income rentals, plus private ownership and private rentals). The houses are climate-sensible with rain-water tanks and extensive use of grey water; we are also planning for photovoltaic systems and other renewables. In 2006 we won the inaugural Sustainability Award by our local government council. We share meals two times a week, a monthly open house community dinner, and a changing feast of planned and spontaneous social activities such as house concerts, nonviolent communication skills, satsang, and BBQs (we’re Australian). We cooperatively manage 8 rental properties and the commons. Decision-making is a workable combination of absolute consensus and delegated authority. We discuss things that matter at focused or casual fireside chats, community email list, business meetings, one on one, and listening/sharing heart circles. Community training includes Nonviolent Communication. We have a guestroom for personal and community guests, fellow communards, AirBnB, WWOOFers and other travelers who contribute work.