Emily Post’s performance is based largely on what you don’t see, rather than what you do. Emily coordinates the efforts of a volunteer group dedicated to graffiti removal from private residential properties throughout Playford in South Australia.
Emily Post said that the group provides and promotes a City that is largely free of graffiti, to help create a environment that is welcoming and safe.
“We work in partnership with the people that live, work and conduct business in the area,” she said. “We coordinate legal aerosol art projects, projects that act to both beautify and discourage graffiti in Playford. These projects direct artistic young people towards activities that add to Playford as a place to live.”
Change is something that Emily has made the most of over the years. Before starting with the City of Playford in 2006 as an Environmental Health Officer, she worked with both the Salisbury and Wakefield councils.
During her time at Playford her role has gone from EHO, to part time Graffiti Coordinator to, more recently full time Graffiti Coordinator. Now Emily is getting geared up for the next wave of change, the centralisation of Council’s graffiti efforts.
“Traditionally graffiti management has been spread across seven Council teams” she said. “Council will shortly centralise operations, bringing them together in the one team, which we hope will provide for a more efficient use of the resources dedicated to grafitti management.”
Spending her time between the office and the field, Emily is well placed to compare how different parts of Council work.
“Although my work is becoming more office based, I love to get out on the road,” she said. “When I am working out of the office I get a broader perspective of community graffiti issues. We get approached a lot more by residents compared to working in the office, and it is great to get their feedback direct.”
Emily’s role has helped her understand the difference the ‘little things’ can make to people in the community.
“The things we do day to day can make a positive impact to someone, their sense of wellbeing and community pride,” she said.
