Now in its eighth year, Neighbour Day has become Australia’s annual celebration of community by bringing neighbours closer together.

Liz Howard said she and her husband were made welcome after moving into their Bendigo street just before Christmas.

“It’s just nice to know each other is there,” Mrs Howard said.

“Everybody just seems to be ready to help out, to watch your place if need be. We stop and have a chat.”

Mrs Howard said her relationship with her neighbours was heightened by having had good neighbours in Kangaroo Flat for many years before moving to Bendigo.

Her neighbour Flora Stratton also enjoyed the companionship, having lived in the street since the 1960s.

Stella Rowlinson said she loved the street, which she and her husband Ed had called home for the past 15 years.

“One will be coming to the letterbox, then another will come across,” Stella said.

Founder Andrew Heslop said the day proved that communities were only as strong as the people who lived in them.

“Neighbour Day is the day to say thanks for being a great neighbour, thanks for helping me out and thanks for being there when I needed you most.”