CAA comment
This plea, published by Martha Tsamis, a Director of the CAA, resonates with all Australians at this time when terror has struck.
One of the most effective weapons against terrorism is community harmony.
This narrative delivers a poignant message that other community leaders must embrace to help build community resilience against tyranny.
It’s not just politicians who must embrace rebuilding our country’s heart; other business and social leaders must do the same.
Sitting on the window ledge, I look out and realise it’s the same play — just different actors. Different times, tougher paths, changing faces… but the human story never really changes.
For nearly two decades on Chapel Street, Patrick & I have seen the best and the worst of life and hospitality. We’ve watched people celebrate, grieve, fall apart, fall in love, rebuild, and start again. What I’ve learned is this: we are not meant to do life alone.
Social spaces aren’t just about nightlife — they’re about connection. About belonging. About mental health, community, laughter, music, and that moment where someone feels seen instead of invisible.
The challenges today are heavier. People are facing tougher versions of life than ever before. And that’s exactly why connection matters more than ever. When we lose places to gather, we lose more than businesses — we lose support systems.
Chapel Street has long been iconic for its people. It still can be. But it needs care, courage, and community to thrive again.
Different actors. Same stage. And we’re all connected — whether we realise it or not. So, let’s bring back the Chapel Street Festival.
Martha
Chasers Nightclub
Co-founder and Deputy Chair/CEO of the CAA, a former Police Inspector with 32 years of service in Metro Uniform, Traffic Metro and Highway Patrol, Crime Cars, and CIB. Former Editor of Police Life and long-serving Public Relations Officer of VicPol. Founder and Life Member of the Blue Light Disco movement, Life Member of the Blue Light Federation, and completed his Police career as an Inspector after 6 years as a Patrol Officer. He then ran his own Business for 20 years until retirement. Ivan co-founded the CAA with former Victorian Chief Commissioner Kel Glare, and built the CAA into an influential voice for Victorians.