Welcoming New Paramedics: How the Welcome Experience Facilitates Transition - NSW Ambulance Wagga Wagga OIC Conference

The Welcome Experience program was proudly showcased to NSW Ambulance officers during the Wagga Wagga regional conference on the 11th June 2025. Our local connector Jay presented an insightful overview of how to the program plays a vital role in supporting new team members transitioning into the workforce and settling successfully within the community.

The Welcome Experience program offers tailored assistance to new team members joining NSW Ambulance, ensuring they receive comprehensive support throughout their relocation and integration journey. From initial orientation to ongoing community engagement, the program helps paramedics and their families navigate the practical and social aspects of their move to the region.

During the presentation, Jay shared recent success stories from paramedics who have recently relocated to the area. These stories highlighted the program’s impact in helping new team members settle smoothly, building connections, accessing local services, and feeling overwhelmed within the community. The session sparked lively discussion and a robust Q&A, reflecting the strong interest and positive reception among conference attendees.

This conference was a valuable opportunity to raise awareness of the program’s benefits and strengthen relationships between local stakeholders. The enthusiastic response from NSW Ambulance officers reinforces the importance of continued collaboration in supporting the region’s vital emergency services.

Our Local connectors Jay and Marg, look forward to further engagement with NSW Ambulance and other Essential Worker employer agencies to ensure the Welcome Experience program continues to deliver meaningful outcomes for their new team members and their families settling into the Riverina region.

NSW Ambulance Conference Attendees

2025 Riverina careers expo Roadshow

Grow Our Own (GOO) was proud to be an exhibitor at multiple careers expos last week. Katie Pastro - Projects Officer RDA Riverina, and Amanda Cappello - Operations Manager RDA Riverina both passionate advocates for local career development and regional opportunities represented GOO at these events. They manned stalls at both the Western Riverina Careers Expo, held at Leeton High School and the Wagga Tertiary Day. This provided a valuable platform for GOO to not only showcase the diverse career pathways available in the Riverina, but also to gather insights from students about their aspirations for work or further study after high school. This year’s event marked a milestone, with 250 students surveyed, which is the largest data collection effort by GOO so far.

Image L to R: Amanda Cappello Operations Manager RDA Riverina, and Katie Pastro Projects Officer RDA Riverina

Image L to R: Amanda Cappello Operations Manage RDA Riverina, and Katie Pastro Projects Officer RDA Riverina

GOO Visits Indie School

On Tuesday 17 of June Amanda Cappello, Operations Manager of RDA Riverina, visited Indie School to promote career pathways in the Riverina region through the Grow Our Own program.

During the visit, Amanda engaged with Year 9 and 10 students, introducing them to the mission of Grow Our Own and the exciting local pathways available for further study and employment. Her presentation highlighted real careers in local businesses and encouraged students to start thinking about their future careers.

Students viewed Riverina Career Videos, a key resource available on the Grow Our Own website. This is proudly offered as a FREE resource to all high schools in the Riverina, supporting students as they explore their future pathways.

GOO East Mock Interviews

Last week, Grow Our Own East supported The Riverina Anglican College by participating in mock interviews. Our members generously donated their time across three sessions to help Year 12 students gain real-world experience by practicing what it's like to participate in a professional job interview.

Amanda Cappello (Operations Manager, RDA Riverina), Sam Turnbull (CEO, Flipscreen), Mark Hillis (Board Member, RDA Riverina), Hannah White (People and Culture Manager, ProWay) and Erin Hallcroft (Human Resource Manager, Thomas Brothers) spoke with students, offering valuable insights and guidance.

Students also received resources on resume writing and interview techniques to assist in preparing for future employment opportunities. In addition, they were provided with information from Grow Our Own East member organisations to learn more about exciting local job prospects.

Erin Hallcroft (Resource Manager, Thomas Brothers) conducting Mock Interviews

Amanda Cappello (Operations Manager, RDA Riverina)

Sam Turnbull (CEO, Flipscreen) conducting Mock Interviews

Griffith Base Hospital Redevelopment Community Open Day

Marg Couch, Local Connector for the Welcome Experience Program in the Riverina, recently attended the Griffith Base Hospital Redevelopment Community Open Day Tour. An incredible event that brought new essential workers and local residents together in a spirit of connection and celebration.

The open day provided a unique opportunity for newly arrived essential workers, many of whom have been supported by Marg and The Welcome Experience Program, to meet the community and feel a sense of belonging in their new town.

The tour highlighted the impressive progress of the hospitals redevelopment but also marked a significant milestone in Griffith’s journey of progressive regional infrastructure development. It was a day that celebrated both the future of healthcare in the region and the hardworking essential healthcare workers who make it possible.

Image: Brett Clarke Director of Nursing Midwifery and Marg Couch, Local Connector, The Welcome Experience Program in the Riverina, Regional Development Australia RIverina.

Julie Kane Midwife

Tour Attendees

Julie Kane Midwife

Image L to R: Marg Couch Local Connector The Welcome Experience Program, Regional Development Australia and Julie Kane Midwife

New signage on the Wards

Gai Medical Ward

New Ward

Indigenous Artwork displayed at Griffith Base Hospital

Country Change prepares for a bumper program year

The Country Change project continues to gain momentum, with 15 local government areas (LGAs) across the Riverina and Murray regions now confirmed as members.

Onboarding is progressing well, with feature quarters already assigned to nine members. The team is awaiting further information from six members to finalise the remaining assignments. Additionally, efforts are underway to collect updated imagery from all confirmed members.

Planning for the upcoming expos is advancing steadily. An exhibitor prospectus and a sponsor prospectus have been developed and will be distributed to contacts shortly. Maddi Ramponi from Griffith CUC has joined the Griffith Expo Working Group, and Craig Sinclair from Temora Shire Council has drafted a marketing plan, which will be refined and presented to the working groups at the next meeting on 2 July.

A venue change for the Griffith Expo has been made to accommodate a concurrent event—the Jobs Expo—scheduled for the same weekend. Both events will now be held at the Griffith Regional Sports Centre and will be jointly marketed to maximise community engagement.

Work is also underway to finalise and print the next edition of the Country Change Magazine ahead of the Wagga Expo on 13 September.

Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to build momentum and deliver on key project milestones.

Making the move for weather and work

Sandra Shaji, a Registered Nurse, along with her husband, Anil Bernard, and their child, Zain, relocated from Guildford, UK, to Griffith in pursuit of better weather, improved work opportunities, and a more balanced lifestyle. Despite initial uncertainties about settling in a new community, The Welcome Experience proved to be an invaluable resource in their transition. 

From the moment they arrived, The Welcome Experience has facilitated their integration by providing airport pick-up, assistance with housing arrangements, and guidance through essential paperwork and work-related onboarding. “ The Welcome Experience Local Connector, Marg Couch, played a pivotal role, offering continuous support and helping us connect with local groups including the Malayalees community” said Anil Bernard.

The family overcame challenges such as understanding Australia’s healthcare system and establishing a social network through community events and cultural gatherings, which reinforced their sense of belonging. After 6 months the challenge of childcare places has eased and Zain is now attending childcare which has created more time for Anil to pursue and rebuild a career for himself.  He is currently training to be a driving instructor and continues with freelance audio - visual communications work. 

Now, having embraced Griffith’s calm and safe environment, the Shaji-Bernard family appreciates the quieter lifestyle compared to city living. They have joined a growing group of “Welcoming Ambassadors” supporting new arrivals to connect, attending social networking opportunities and encouraging other newcomers to take advantage of The Welcome Experience, highlighting its role in fostering connections and ensuring a smooth transition into a welcoming community.

L to R: Marg Couch, Local Connector for The Welcome Experience, RDA Riverina, Sandra Shaji, Anil Bernard, and their child Zain

L to R: Rakesh &AAyan Raj, Bipin George, Anil Bernard, Sandra Shaji and Zain

Proten Grow Our Own Western Riverina newest member

Image: Katie Pastro, Projects Officer for Grow Our Own Western Riverina

Last month, Grow Our Own proudly welcomed a new partner in the Western Riverina region - ProTen, a leading poultry grower based in Euroley, NSW.

This month, Katie Pastro, Projects Officer for Grow Our Own Western Riverina, had the opportunity to film a Grow Our Own Careers video with the ProTen team across several of their sites. The video features insights from Farm Managers, a School-Based Apprentice/Trainee (SBAT), and the HR Manager, offering a behind-the-scenes look at ProTen’s operations and their commitment to workforce development.

ProTen has shown great enthusiasm for their partnership with Grow Our Own. Their involvement has already sparked interest among local agriculture teachers, who are eager to explore new opportunities with GOO-especially with the introduction of the poultry sector to our committee.

Community Afternoon Tea Party in Temora

Temora Tea Party Attendees

On Saturday, May 10, the Temora Railway Station Platform transformed into a haven of warmth, stories, and shared laughter as locals and newcomers gathered for A Warm Welcome: Community Afternoon Tea Party to celebrate International Tea Day. Set against the charming backdrop of the station platform, the event brought together people from all walks of life - long-time residents and newly arrived essential workers and families - for an afternoon of filled with meaningful connection and community spirit. Guests were treated to a traditional afternoon tea spread featuring delicate finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones, delectable sweet treats, and an array of fine teas.

Our Local Connector Jay had the privilege of helping create this space for our new essential workers and their families. It was incredibly heartening to see the community rally together to offer such a warm and heartfelt welcome. The event wasn’t just about tea - it was about stories, laughter, and genuine human connections. Temora Shire Council General Manager, Melissa Boxall, set the tone with a warm opening, and our wonderful Local Welcomer, David Lyons, delighted guests with a fascinating take on the history of tea - reminding us that something as simple as a cup of tea can carry stories across generations and cultures.

A huge thank you goes out to the Temora Council team Craig Sinclair and Shontayne Ward, whose hosting made the afternoon truly special. Their thoughtful introductions and engaging presence made everyone feel seen and celebrated. The icebreakers and interactive activities sparked delightful conversations, and for many, it was the beginning of new friendships. This event was more than just a tea party - it was a reminder of what makes Temora so special: its people, its hospitality, and its welcoming heart. Here’s to many more gatherings that bring our community closer, one cup at a time.

Temora Tea Party Attendees

L to R: Melissa Boxall, General Manager, Temora Shire Council and David Lyons, Temora Local Welcomer, The Welcome Experience Program

Melissa Boxall, General Manager, Temora Shire Council

Temora Tea Party Attendees

David Lyons, Temora Local Welcomer, The Welcome Experience Program

David Lyons, Temora Local Welcomer, The Welcome Experience Program

Shontayne Ward: Economic & Community Developmet Officer, Temora Shire Council

Country Change Onboarding Kicks Off for 2025–2026

We’re off to a flying start! Last week, we hosted the Country Change Onboarding Meeting for the 2025–2026 program year — and we’re thrilled to report it was a great success.

With 15 member attendees and 5 staff joining the session, the energy was high and the feedback even better. Dimi from Temora Shire summed it up perfectly:

“Thanks for this morning. Loved the video content! It looked great!”

Edwina from Narrandera Shire also shared her enthusiasm:

“That was a great meeting, I look forward to getting the recording so I can share it with our marketing coordinator so she can get started on content.”

The session gave members a full walkthrough of the newly revamped Country Change SharePoint system — a major upgrade designed to make collaboration smoother and more personalised than ever.

🔧 What’s New?

We’ve completely overhauled the SharePoint system and launched a brand-new Member Portal. Here’s what’s inside:

• Individual Member Pages – Tailored for each organisation

• Personalised Contact Lists – So you know exactly who to reach out to

• Media Libraries – Custom collections of your own content

• Task Lists – Stay on top of what’s coming up

• Custom Forms – To streamline onboarding and feature month planning

Access is secure and streamlined: each member page is only visible to the relevant member organisation, RDA staff, and BlueClay staff.

🎥 Missed the Meeting?

No worries — the full recording is available now on the Country Change SharePoint, under the Member Portal page.

Thanks again to everyone who joined us. We’re excited for what’s ahead in 2025–2026!

The Country Change team takes scenic journey to Deniliquin

Last month, our Country Change team embarked on an exciting road trip to Deniliquin, NSW, where we collaborated with Edward River Council to create a video for their "feature month" in the Country Change program. The program, designed to highlight the benefits of living in the Riverina and Murray region, aims to attract new residents to the Edward River region.

As we set off from Wagga Wagga early in the morning, the drive itself quickly became an adventure. The countryside unfolded with rolling plains and bushland, offering glimpses of rural beauty.

One unexpected delight of the journey was encountering numerous emus along the way. These curious birds seemed to welcome us to their turf.

Upon arriving in Deniliquin, known affectionately as "Deni," we were greeted warmly by Simone and Ellie from Edward River Council. Their enthusiasm and passion for the region set the tone for a productive and enjoyable collaboration. Simone and Ellie shared insights about the region, emphasising how the Edward River area embodies the allure of regional living—with its tranquil surroundings, close-knit community, and opportunities for a balanced lifestyle. It was clear that their dedication to showcasing the region came from a genuine love for their home.

During our stay, we had the pleasure of experiencing glamping at the Deni Big4 holiday park. This luxurious camping experience provided a perfect blend of comfort and immersion in nature. Surrounded by towering gums and the soothing sounds of the Australian bush, the holiday park offered a peaceful retreat where we could recharge and soak in the serene beauty of the region.

One of the undeniable highlights of our trip was witnessing the sunset on the Edward River. As the day drew to a close, the river transformed into a canvas of golden yellows, fiery oranges, and soft blues. The tranquil waters mirrored the sky, creating a breath-taking spectacle that left us in awe. It was a fitting reminder of the natural wonders Deniliquin has to offer.

Filming the video was both a creative and collaborative endeavour. With Simone and Ellie guiding us, we captured footage that showcased the Edward River region's unique lifestyle, opportunities, and scenic beauty. Our goal was to authentically convey why Deniliquin is a fantastic place to call home. By combining picturesque landscapes with heartfelt local stories, we aimed to create a compelling narrative for Edward River Council’s video.

As we headed back to Wagga Wagga, the memories of our time in Deniliquin stayed vivid in our minds—from the emus and glamping experience to the warm hospitality and unforgettable sunset. It was a privilege to be part of a project that celebrates the appeal of regional living and promotes the Edward River region as a welcoming and vibrant community.

We hope you enjoy the finished product!

The Welcome Experience Shines at Sydney Royal Easter Show 2025!

Image: Jayadev Ajayakumar, Local Connector for The Welcome Experience Program, RDA Riverina

The Welcome Experience made a powerful impact at the 2025 Sydney Royal Easter Show, bringing the spirit of Regional NSW directly to thousands of curios and open-minded Sydneysiders.

As part of The Welcome Experience team, our local connector Jayadev Ajayakumar had the privilege of representing the Riverina region - highlighting the incredible work and life balance offered in towns like Wagga Wagga, Temora, Tumut, Leeton, and Griffith. Jay also had the opportunity to speak with hundreds of visitors about the lifestyle, community, and career possibilities that await in the Riverina. From families exploring a tree change to essential workers considering a new start, the level of interest was incredible. Jay was thrilled to guide them through the registration process and introduce the support offered by our Local Connectors.

Highlights from the show include:

• 395 official registrations to The Welcome Experience program

• A steady stream of questions about relocating to Regional NSW

• Strong cross-agency collaboration and Ministerial support

• Real connections made with people looking for more space, stronger community ties, and meaningful work

The “Make the Move” campaign offered Sydneysiders a genuine glimpse into the vibrant lifestyle, employment opportunities, and sense of community in Regional NSW. Through warmth, storytelling, and the power of community-based social marketing, the team fostered genuine connections that will hopefully turn into thriving relcoation’s in the months ahead.

The Welcome Experience Stall

Image: L to R - Pagan Kelly Local Connector, Melissa Thompson Local Connector, Rachel Nicoll Local Connector, Jayadev Ajayakumar Local Connector

Image: Jayadev Ajayakumar The Welcome Experience Local Connector RDA Riverina, and Sydney Royal Easter Show attendees.

Image: Sydney Royal Easter Show attendee and Jayadev Ajayakumar The Welcome Experience Local Connector RDA Riverina.

Image: L to R Jayadev Ajayakumar The Welcome Experience Local Connector RDA Riverina, Trish Marinozzi Senior Manager Strategic Engagement and Integration Transgrid

Image: Police Attending the Sydney Royal Easter Show, and Jayadev Ajayakumar The Welcome Experience Local Connector RDA Riverina.

Griffith Social Networking Event | Train, Tour, and Turban

L to R - Caprice Skinner, Magot Griffith Rotary, and Elroy Gonzales Murrumbidgee Irrigation

On Sunday, April 6, 2025, the Griffith Pioneer Park and Museum hosted the second social networking event of the year, the Train, Tour, and Turban Event. Marg Couch, Local Connector for The Welcome Experience Program, was among the attendees for the event that celebrated the history of Griffith and the positive influence of the Sikh community through the travelling exhibition, “Our Southwest Sikhs”. These events are an excellent opportunity for newcomers to Griffith to meet others and build community connection. The gathering brought together over 60 participants, including teachers, health workers, local business employers, new employees, welcoming locals, and their families.

The event featured a delightful light lunch, engaging lawn activities, and an informative train tour of the park. Attendees also enjoyed a self-guided tour of the original buildings and artifacts that highlight Griffith's rich history as a vibrant, multicultural regional city.

A standout feature of the event was the museum's first-ever traveling exhibition, "Our Southwest Sikhs." This exhibition charts the remarkable journey of Sikh migration in Australia, celebrating the contributions of Griffith's Sikh community from the early 70s to the present day in various fields such as farming, sports, and civil service.

The event was supported by partners like Griffith Business Chamber, Griffith City Council, and The Welcome Experience. Local welcomers played a vital role in networking and providing valuable information and solutions to help new arrivals settle into the community.

Image: Griffith Connections sign

Image: Channa Phillip family, with Mampuya family

Image: Omer and family

Image L to R: Welcoming Locals Nadia Mancini and Shireen Donaldson

2025 Youth Advisory Group (YAG) National Youth Week Workshops

This month Katie Pastro, Projects Officer for Grow Our Own Western Riverina, had the opportunity to be a workshop host at the 2025 Youth Advisory Group (YAG) National Youth Week Workshops, an initiative by Griffith City Council.

Katie's workshop, co-presented with Maddi Ramponi from Country University Centre, was a comprehensive guide to job readiness, covering essential topics such as crafting standout resumes, highlighting key elements to include, and strategies to present oneself as the ideal candidate. She also shared valuable interview tips and tricks and provided insights into what to expect in the workplace, ensuring participants felt well-prepared for their future careers.

The workshop was a resounding success, attracting 15 local high school students, as well as Melissa Cartzian, Community Development Coordinator, Griffith City Council, and Charli Scott, Trainee Economic Development Officer at Griffith City Council. The students gained practical knowledge and confidence to navigate the job market. Katie's  and Maddi’s expertise and engaging presentation style made the session both informative and enjoyable for all participants.

Launch of Major Project Workforce Histogram and ECEC Report at Economic Development Officer Forum | March 2025

L to R - Dianna Somerville RDA Riverina Chair, Nicole Ryan General Manager of Government Stakeholder & Advocacy Transgrid, Melanie Rankin Research Officer RDA Riverina, Rachel Whiting CEO RDA Riverina, Trish Marinozzi Senior Manager Strategic Engagement and Integration Transgrid, and Matt Holt Tourism and Economic Development Officer Lockhart Shire Council.

Rachel Whiting, CEO, Regional Development Australia Riverina

On March 27, 2025, RDA Riverina and AusIndustry, in partnership with Lockhart Shire Council, hosted the Economic Development Officer Forum at The Rock. Attendees heard from various guest speakers, including representatives from Lockhart Shire Council, Destination Riverina Murray, Business NSW, Inland Rail, Transgrid, Telstra, and NBN co.

The event commenced with Cr Peter Sharp, Mayor of Lockhart Shire Council, giving an Acknowledgement of Country and a warm welcome to attendees.

Julia Ham, Principal Consultant, Early Childhood Quality Services

During the forum, RDA Riverina CEO Rachel Whiting launched two pivotal reports: the ‘Early Childhood Education and Care in the Riverina’ and the ‘Workforce Histogram’. The Early Childhood Education and Care in the Riverina report addresses the critical shortages of childcare services, providing local evidence to the Regional Australia Institute’s findings that 35% of Australian’s live in “Childcare deserts”. This report aims to inform policy, drive strategic planning, and foster collaboration to benefit the Riverina region economically and socially. It includes extensive data analysis, consultations with ECEC professionals, and surveys of providers and parents. Guest Speaker and ECEC Consultant Julia Ham emphasised the critical importance of early childhood education and care and shared further information, underscoring the urgency of addressing childcare shortages.

Nicole Ryan, Transgrid’s General Manager of Government Stakeholder & Advocacy, highlighted their Strategic Partnership with RDA Riverina. Part of the $1.5 million Workforce Development Strategic Partnership included their commitment to assist research and advocacy projects on issues of concern within the region.

Melanie Renkin, RDA’s Research Officer, guided attendees through the detailed data of the Workforce Histogram report. Her presentation shed light on the projected demand for labour and skills in the Riverina and Murray regions over the next 3-5 years, driven by significant infrastructure projects. The workforce Histogram report, stemming from the RDA Riverina Major Projects Engagement Session in late 2022, highlights the significant employment demand due to major infrastructure projects exceeding $500 million. RDA Riverina are committed to releasing further updates to the Workforce Histogram as more major projects provide the data.

The event also featured several notable guest speakers. Matt Holt, Tourism and Economic Development Officer from Lockhart Shire Council, provided insightful updated on local initiatives. Yvette Myhill, General Manager of Destination Riverina Murray, delivered an engaging tourism presentation that highlighted the region’s attraction and growth opportunities. Grant Johnston from Inland Rail shared progress on the major infrastructure project while Serena Hardwick, Regional Director of Business NSW, presented the 2024 Workforce Skills Survey, offering valuable insights into the challenges and strategies for addressing skills needs in NSW. Finally, the NBN Regional Engagement Manager discussed recent upgrades, future technology plans, and improvements in fibre and speed enhancements, promising a more connected future for the region.

The event concluded with a tour of The Rock Regional Observatory; an experience that was highly valued by attendees.

Melanie Rankin, Research Officer, Regional Development Australia Riverina

Andrew Cottrill, Regional Engagement Manager, NBN Local

Forum Attendees

The Rock Regional Observatory

Nicole Ryan, General Manager of Government Stakeholder & Advocacy, Transgrid

Matt Holt, Tourism and Economic Development Officer, Lockhart Shire Council

Forum Attendees

The Rock Regional Observatory

2024 Wagga Land Monitor Report Released

Launched on the 24th February in Wagga Wagga, The Land Monitor Report 2023-24 offers an analysis of vacant land supply, demand, and housing trends in the Wagga Wagga local government area. Population growth is putting strain on the housing market as projections indicate a need for 222 new homes annually, whilst lot production decreased 43.4% this year. Decreasing land availability contributes to rising land prices, rents, and house values, negatively impacting the local economy with significant losses in potential output and jobs.

The report is the result of a collaboration between Regional Development Australia Riverina, the Housing Industry Australia Wagga branch, and Committee4Wagga.

The report examines vacant lot distribution across suburbs, time to build, lot sizes, and future residential development potential. Additionally, the report looks at building approvals, and the median cost of construction as well as vacant land. Click here to view the report and here to access historical reports since 2019.

L - R: Dr Joe McGirr MP, NSW Member for Wagga Wagga; Melanie Renkin, Research Officer at RDA Riverina; Tony Balding, HIA Wagga branch ; Scott Sanbrook, CEO of Committee4Wagga; Richard Pottie, Managing Director of Ladex Construction Group Pty Ltd; Rachel Whiting, CEO of RDA Riverina; Mark Hillis, RDA Riverina Board Member

Country Change Update | March 2025

The Country Change team have been working hard this month planning for the upcoming 2025 - 2026 Country Change program year. Fresh designs were created, and membership proposals were sent out to LGA’s across the Riverina and Murray regions. We look forward to working with our members on this successful program.

"You Should Be a Cop in Your Hometown" NSW Police Southern Recruitment Roadshow in Wagga Wagga

Police Recruitment Roadshow Attendees

L to R - Tina Davies NSWPF Recruitment Branch, Hon. Yasmin Catley, Minister for Police and Counter-Terrorism, and Jayadev Ajayakumar Local Connector

RDA Riverina’s Welcome Experience Local Connector Jay, had the opportunity to attend the "You Should Be a Cop in Your Hometown" NSW Police Southern Recruitment Roadshow in Wagga Wagga—a powerful initiative focused on bringing police officers back to their hometowns.

The roadshow isn’t just about filling roles; it’s about strengthening regional communities with local recruits who understand the people, the culture, and the challenges unique to their towns. By attracting officers who have deep roots in their communities, this initiative is ensuring a stronger, more connected future for regional NSW.

During the event, Jay had the privilege of discussing the impact of the Welcome Experience with Hon. Yasmin Catley, Minister for Police and Counter-Terrorism, and Dr. Joe McGirr MP. They explored how the Riverina Welcome Experience is helping new recruits and their families settle in, ensuring they feel at home from day one. As Jay shared, “Small gestures make a big impact.”

Local Connector Jayadev Ajayakumar and Dr. Joe McGir MP, NSW Member for Wagga Wagga

With 12 regional areas targeted this year, the NSW Police Force is tackling a long-standing challenge—attracting and retaining skilled professionals in regional towns—with a sustainable, place-based solution.

Jay was proud to stand alongside the dedicated NSW Police Force, shaping the future of regional NSW. This is community-building in action!

The Welcome Experience in Griffith: Meet and Mingle Event

L to R - Mihaela Homjak NSW Health, Ferdinand & Solange Mumapuya Your Health, Marg Couch TWE Local Connector, Lauren Carnell CBA.

The Welcome Experience’s collaborative support approach, encompassing partner employment assistance and cultural integration, was proudly showcased at the Griffith Connection Meet and Mingle event held on Thursday, 27 February, from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm. This event for new arrivals was a resounding success, attracting over 65 attendees, including healthcare professionals, educators, emergency service workers, business and industry personnel, partners, families, and community members.

Coordinated by The Welcome Experience Local Connector Marg Couch, with major supporters Griffith Business Chamber and Griffith City Council, Meet and Mingle is the first welcoming event for 2025. The event, held at ROR on Yambil Street, saw a diverse turnout with 33 essential workers, 20 business and industry representatives, 10 children, and 4 community embassador’s. Securing the participation of various community stakeholders provided many opportunities, including an invitation by Val OMeara for new arrivals to attend a Griffith Avanti Rotary Breakfast to learn about community projects. New arrivals also learnt about local food and wine experiences from Bella Vita Tours and received additional goodies in their welcome pack, including free produce and vouchers from businesses such as Griffith City Cinema, Star Bowling and Limone Cafe and Dining.

L to R Ben Broek, Broek’s Building & Will Phillips, G.J. Gardner Homes

Crowd at the Meet and Mingle Event

L to R Val OMeara Avanti Rotary and Marg Couch TWE Local Connector

L to R Jess Hu CSU, Will Grossa and Ruben Najir Flavourtech

L to R - John Nikolic Griffith Business Chamber and Marg Couch TWE Local Connector

L to R Simone Murphy Intereach, Carmel La Rocca Multicultural Council, Shari Blumer Griffith City Council, Cai Halroyd Area News.

Mount AustIn Mock Interviews

Photo: Amanda Cappello, Erin Hallcroft, Mark Hillis, and Paul Gianniotis

On Wednesday, 12 March, Grow Our Own, in collaboration with The Smith Family, organised mock interviews at Mount Austin High School. These interviews were designed to prepare students for real-world job interviews, with around 25-30 students participating in the event.

The mock interviews were conducted by a team of eight mentors, including Amanda Cappello (Operations Manager, RDA-Riverina), Mark Hills (Board Member, RDA-Riverina), Paul Gianniotis, and Erin Hallcroft (Grow Our Own member and Resource Manager, Thomas Brothers). This initiative is part of Grow Our Own’s ongoing partnership with The Smith Family, which has created a supportive pathway to employment for local students.

Erin Hallcroft (Grow Our Own Member) conducting mock interviews

Mark Hillis (RDA-Riverina Board Member) conducting mock interviews