Celebrating National Ag Day in the Riverina (Copy)

L-R: Zoe Lamont, Founder, Farm Door Wagga Wagga, Alesha Bennet, Young White Suffolk Breeder, Jessica Ryan, NSW Young Farmers Chair

On Friday, 21 November 2025, we celebrated National Agriculture Day with the theme “Stand with the Land”, honouring the resilience and innovation of Australia’s farmers and rural communities. This year’s event was proudly hosted by RDA Riverina in partnership with AgriFutures, AgriPark, Charles Sturt University, Local Land Services, and NSW DPI at the Mawambul Training Centre, CSU Wagga Wagga.

National Ag Day is a call to recognise the people who feed and clothe us, even through floods, droughts, policy challenges, and trade disruptions. Agriculture is the backbone of the Riverina economy, and this day reminds us of its vital role in sustaining communities and driving innovation.

The luncheon brought together over 60 attendees, including producers, researchers, and community leaders. It featured a panel of inspiring speakers who shared insights on sustainability, leadership, and the future of farming:

• Jessica Ryan – NSW Young Farmers Chair (Harden)

• Zoe Lamont – Founder, Farm Door (Wagga Wagga)

• Alesha Bennett – Young White Suffolk Breeder & Emerging Ag Leader (Tarcutta)

These voices reflected the diversity and strength of our agricultural sector, from grassroots farming to entrepreneurial innovation.

National Ag Day is more than a celebration—it’s a movement. At RDA Riverina, we continue to champion initiatives that strengthen our agricultural backbone, from paddock-to-plate projects to workforce development and regional innovation. Let’s keep standing with the land, today and every day.

Regional Energy Accord: Riverina & Murray Shaping Australia’s Energy Transition (Copy)

L-R: Ray Willis, RDA Riverina Board Member, Malkah Lara Muckenschnabl, Associate Partner YoBou, Rachel Whiting, CEO and Director of Regional Development, Sabiene Heindl, CEO The Energy Charter, Sarimah Hellyer, CEO RDA Murray, Bryce Ives, Principal Consultant YoBou, Mark Hillis, RDA Riverina Board Member

On Thursday, 27 November 2025, Regional Development Australia (RDA) Riverina and Murray, in partnership with The Energy Charter, hosted two pivotal events at the Local Land Service Mawambul Training Centre, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga: the Regional Energy Accord Business Workshop and the Regional Energy Accord Roundtable. These events followed strategic engagement with local landholders the day before.

Why a Regional Energy Accord?

The Riverina and Murray regions are at the forefront of Australia’s energy transition, hosting major renewable infrastructure and experiencing both the opportunities and challenges that come with change. Local communities are navigating new impacts on land, business, and daily life as the energy landscape evolves. The Regional Energy Accord is a national initiative designed to ensure this transition occurs in partnership with communities, not to them. It’s a voluntary agreement, co-designed by regional voices, industry, and government, setting out shared principles and practical steps for collaboration that reflects the priorities and aspirations of our region.

Elevating Regional Voices

The landholder engagement meetings heard from local people impacted by renewable energy developments. Sharing of stories and listening to concerns is part of true regional engagement. The morning Business Workshop brought together business leaders from across the Riverina and Murray, providing a platform to share insights and contribute to the Accord’s development. Discussions focused on trust, fairness, and the need for visible local benefits—emphasising that commitments must be delivered, not just promised. Participants agreed that regional expertise and leadership are essential for ensuring the energy transition delivers genuine, lasting value. Engagement also occurred with a group of young community leaders. The importance of hearing voices from all demographics in our community was highlighted.

Shaping a Fair and Inclusive Transition

The afternoon Roundtable built on these conversations, gathering community leaders, industry representatives, government officials, and stakeholders from diverse sectors. The agenda included mapping the region’s energy story, identifying guiding principles, and developing practical commitments that reflect local values and priorities. The collaborative format encouraged open dialogue, creative thinking, and a shared commitment to shaping a fair and inclusive energy future.

A National Effort, Grounded in Local Experience

Supported by The Energy Charter and facilitated by YoBou Pty Ltd, the Accord aims to unite stakeholders around shared principles and practical steps for collaboration. The process is grounded in authentic local listening, with the goal of building trust, supporting local leadership, and turning good intentions into visible actions on the ground. The Riverina and Murray Roundtable is the fourth in a series, adding local priorities and insights to the national Accord.

Lasting Impact

By hosting these events, RDA Riverina and RDA Murray have ensured that the perspectives of local business and community leaders are central to the development of the Regional Energy Accord. The outcomes will inform a national framework designed to deliver real, measurable benefits for regional Australia—ensuring that communities are not left behind, but are active partners in shaping the future.

Biosecurity Training Strengthens Renewable Energy Development in the Riverina (Copy)

On 25 November 2025, Regional Development Australia (RDA) Riverina partnered with EnergyCo and Charles Sturt University to deliver the first Biosecurity Training for the Renewable Energy Industry at the AgriPark on Charles Sturt University’s Wagga Wagga Campus.

This initiative is a vital step in ensuring renewable energy projects in the South-West Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) meet stringent biosecurity standards while respecting the needs of local landholders.

Why Biosecurity Matters

As renewable energy projects expand across rural NSW, maintaining strong biosecurity practices is essential to protect agricultural land and livestock. The training addressed risks such as weed and pest spread, soil contamination, and vehicle hygiene—critical issues for developers working in farming communities.

About the Session

The one-day program combined classroom learning with a hands-on field component at Charles Sturt Farm. Participant explored:

• Biosecurity principles and compliance with the NSW Biosecurity Act 2015.

• Practical hygiene protocols for vehicles and machinery.

• Soil and vegetation management strategies.

• Landholder engagement and property access planning.

The session brought together participants from across the renewable energy and agricultural sectors, creating valuable opportunities for collaboration and knowledge sharing.

What Participants Said

• “Loved the inter-industry discussion. I felt it helped with the social licence having Ag experience in the room.”

• “Good presentation which elevated the importance of biosecurity risk to the local projects. It was good to have some Elecnor folk there who have some lived experiences and lessons they were able to pass on.”

• “This will be especially useful for construction contractors.”

Looking Ahead

The next training session will be held in Hay early 2026, targeting major contractors responsible for constructing renewable projects. These workshops are part of a broader effort to unlock 3.56 GW of clean energy capacity, create thousands of jobs, and attract $17.8 billion in private investment to the South-West REZ.

‘Behind School Gates’ Wade High

Grow Our Own, together with Griffith Business Chamber, and our local education providers are proud to host ‘Behind the School Gates Tours’ in 2025.

These ongoing tours are a FREE initiative to showcase the programs, state-of-the-art facilities and passionate educators supporting the next generation of our local workforce. From Agriculture to construction, STEM to hospitality; we proudly welcome our local business community to explore ‘Behind the School Gates’ of our education providers.

This initiative has been established to continue to bridge the gap between education providers and local industry, and to highlight how students are more ‘career ready’ than ever. Building connection, through knowledge and understanding is a powerful tool in continuing to build our local workforce from this grassroots level.

During the ‘Behind School Gates’ Murrumbidgee Regional High School - Wade Site, attendees had the opportunity to hear from the Principal and Careers Teacher on the current programs the school offers, from work readiness too career entry. The tour showcased the new state-of-the-art facilities students use in their classrooms. They also had the opportunity to connect with the department teachers, and get first-hand information surrounding students career aspirations.

These tours are more than just a visit, they’re an opportunity to build partnerships, share knowledge, and invest in the future of our region.

that’s a wrap! Country change expos 2025

The 2025 Country Change Expos, held in Wagga Wagga in September and Griffith in October, have marked a significant milestone in RDA Riverina’s ongoing mission to showcase the benefits of regional living and connect newcomers with local opportunities. This year’s events saw record engagement, vibrant community participation, and strong outcomes for both attendees and exhibitors.

Expanding Reach and Engagement

Pre-event promotion was extensive, with over 28,000 emails sent to Country Change and RDA Riverina subscribers, and event information amplified by our partners and stakeholders across the state. Social media campaigns generated more than 700,000 views, with engagement and reach both more than doubling compared to previous years. The Country Change website saw over 18,000 sessions, with expo event pages becoming the most frequent landing spot for visitors.

Media coverage included TV stories, radio interviews, and newspaper features, ensuring the expos reached audiences well beyond the Riverina.

Who attended?

Pre-registrations reflected a broad geographic interest:

• Wagga Wagga Expo: 138 pre-registrations (57% Riverina, 21% Sydney, 8% Melbourne, 5.8% Rest of NSW, 3.6% Queensland)

• Griffith Expo: 87 pre-registrations (57.5% Riverina, 18.4% Sydney, 16.1% Melbourne, 4.6% Overseas)

Attendees ranged widely in age and background, with many expressing a keen interest in relocating and seeking employment. The main reasons for attending were to explore regional living and job opportunities.

Event Highlights

• Stallholder Growth: The expos saw a significant increase in stallholders compared to last year’s inaugural Riverina Discovery Weekend and Country Change Expo, with 35 at Wagga and 24 at Griffith, representing local governments, employers, health and volunteer services, and community groups.

• Community Spirit: Live music, food stalls, and interactive displays created a welcoming atmosphere. Community highlights included performances by local musicians at both expos and strong volunteer involvement, including in event setup.

• Tours and Jobs Board: Town tours were available in 4 towns across the two expos, and the jobs board resulted in at least one attendee securing employment.

Outcomes and Feedback

• Attendee Satisfaction: 100% of survey respondents said their expectations were met

• Average Event Rating: 8.5-9 out of 10

• 96-97% would encourage others to attend in future

• The most valued aspects were the opportunity to connect with Country Change exhibitors, employers, and local services.

• Stallholder Experience: 100% were satisfied or highly satisfied with their experience, cost, and communication from organisers.

• 91% were likely or highly likely to exhibit at future expos

• Community Impact: The expos fostered connections between newcomers and locals, showcased the region’s lifestyle, and provided practical pathways for those considering a move.

The 2025 Country Change Expos have not only increased awareness of the Riverina as a destination of choice but have strengthened community ties and delivered tangible outcomes for attendees and exhibitors alike. With overwhelmingly positive feedback and clear evidence of impact, the expos stand as a testament to the power of collaboration and the appeal of regional living.

Welcoming New Junior Medical Officers to Griffith

L to R: Michael Orjekh, Tom Clark, Will Wood, Joshua Sacks, and Marg Couch RDA Riverina.

The Welcome Experience Program was delighted to greet four new Junior Medical Officers during their introduction last week. These doctors commenced their 12-week rotation at Griffith Base Hospital on Monday 17 November, and will remain until 30 January 2026.

Marg Couch, Local Connector for The Welcome Experience Program, welcomed them to Griffith, introducing the JMOs to the Riverina’s unique lifestyle and hidden gems. The session provided valuable insights and opportunities to connect with the Local Community, helping them feel at home in the region.

Griffith Base Hospital regularly hosts JMOs on 12-week rotations and offers internships and career pathways for general practice and career medical officers. During their placement, junior doctors gain hands-on experience in key areas such as emergency, surgery, and general medicine.

Training in a regional setting offers diverse clinical exposure and closer interaction with specialists compared to metropolitan hospitals. For many, this first rural placement is an opportunity to explore the benefits of rural medicine and experience the lifestyle advantages of the Riverina, encouraging long-term interest in regional healthcare careers.

Temora Connect: Celebrating Community, Connection and New Beginnings

Temora Connect attendees

RDA Riverina was proud to partner with Temora Shire Council to host the Temora Connect Welcoming Event, a vibrant afternoon that brought together new residents, essential workers, families, and long-time locals in a celebration of connection and community spirit at Lake Centenary.

The event showcased the very best of what Temora represents, a welcoming, family-oriented town where people feel valued and included. It offered new residents the chance to meet others, discover local services and clubs, and gain a deeper sense of belonging in their new home. It was inspiring to see so many community representatives, organisations, and volunteers come together with a shared purpose: to make newcomers feel genuinely supported as they begin their journey in Temora. The afternoon was filled with meaningful conversations, laughter, and new friendships that reflected the strong sense of community that defines this region.

A special acknowledgement goes to the Temora Rotary for their generous contribution, providing a delicious BBQ that perfectly complemented the relaxed and welcoming atmosphere of the event.

Our Local Connector, Jay Ajayakumar, expressed appreciation to all who attended and proudly shared a remarkable milestone, 150 essential workers have successfully relocated to the Riverina region this year, many of them now call Temora their new home.

Shontayne Ward, Economic Development Officer at Temora Shire Council, extended an official welcome to new residents, sharing valuable information and resources to support their smooth settlement and integration into the community.

We were also delighted to be joined by Cr Nigel Judd OAM, Temora Shire Council and Carolynne Merchant, Director of the Department of Education Temora, whose presence reflected the depth of local leadership and ongoing commitment to welcoming new arrivals.

A memorable highlight of the afternoon was the official welcome, where newly arrived essential workers and their families were presented with Welcome Experience duffel bags by local community members, a small yet meaningful gesture symbolising the community’s gratitude and support.

One participant, who relocated to Temora through the NSW GROW Pilot Program, shared his heartfelt experience of settling into the town, describing Temora as a place where “people not only move to, but truly choose to stay and call home".”

The Temora Connect Event was a powerful reminder of what can be achieved wen communities come together, a genuine celebration of belonging, connection, and the shared vision of a thriving and inclusive Riverina.

Local Connector Jay and Shontayne from Temora Shire Council warmly welcoming everyone to the event

Carolynne Merchant Director of Department of Education welcoming Essential Workers

Temora Rotary

Shontayne Ward, Economic Development Officer, Temora Shire Council welcoming new Essential Worker Partner

Attendees

Temora local resident Donna presenting a welcome bag to new essential worker family

Jehanzeb, client through NSW GROW Pilot Program, welcomed by Temora resident John and Local Connector Jay

Temora Rotary

The Welcome Experience Griffith Update- Griffith SPring Fling

There is no better time in the Riverina for new arrivals to connect socially with locals. The Welcome Experience social networking program rolled out its Spring Fling events in the western Riverina to celebrate not only the season but also our welcoming communities. These localised activities help new residents build meaningful connections with long-time locals through both existing and focused events.

We have been inundated with activity in the region, commencing with participation in the Onam Festivals across Griffith, Leeton, and Wagga. As Local Connectors, we have joined our new arrivals in multicultural festivals and other local activities, from Park Runs, the Springfest Street Party, and Country Change Expos to more targeted events such as Meet and Mingles, and even Musical Bingo!

“We have reached out to over 100 new arrivals to the Riverina this spring to make sure they find and experience community, not just employment,” said Local Connector Marg Couch.

Attendees ranged from young singles to newly arrived families from across Australia and overseas. These events provided essential workers with the opportunity to mingle and enquire about all the “life stuff” that challenges relocators. They also foster a sense of community belonging.

As the year draws to a close there are still activities on the social welcoming calendar.  For more information contact Local Connectors Marg Couch (Griffith,Leeton) E: po@rdariverina.org.au and Jay Ajayakumar (Temora,Tumut,Wagga) E: coordinator@rdariverina.org.au 

Griffith Community Volunteers at Country Change Expo Griffith

Country Change Project Update - October

Image Description: RDA Staff Amanda Cappello, Operations Manager, and Rachel Whiting, CEO at the Griffith Country Change Expo

The final Country Change Expo for 2025 took place in Griffith on 25 October, and it was a resounding success!  Visitors spent the day connecting with local councils, employers and community organisations, gaining first-hand insights into the lifestyle, career opportunities, and welcoming spirit that make Griffith and the wider Riverina region such a vibrant place to live and work. The strong presence of local residents added a personal touch, giving attendees the chance to hear real stories and ask questions about life in these communities.

The expo offered plenty of memorable experiences. From guided town tours showcasing Griffith’s amenities and culture, to a warm welcome event that brought visitors and locals together for an day of conversation and laughter, the sense of community was front and centre. Exhibitors shared information on services, volunteering, and employment, while entertainment kept the atmosphere lively with music, interactive activities, facepainting and even free gelato and coffee for survey participants. APM Employment Services continued their generous support as major sponsors, helping make the expos such a success.

Whether you’re actively planning a move or simply exploring your options, the Country Change Expo delivered inspiration, practical resources, and genuine connections for anyone considering a fresh start in regional NSW.

Grow OUr Own October Update

Image L to R: Marg Couch Local Connector for The Welcome Experience RDA Riverina; Katie Pastro, Projects Officer RDA Riverina; Amanda Cappello, Operations Manager RDA Riverina; and Jayadev Ajayakumar, Local Connector for The Welcome Experience at the Griffith Careers & Employment Expo

GOO has had a busy month across the Riverina attending and supporting various events and programs. Attending the Launch of Rise & Build in the Riverina as a partner of this exciting new program, and later participating  in the first Rise & Build industry tour of the RAAF redevelopment site  Wagga Wagga. GOO are excited to partner with this new program in our region, designed to support women to build meaningful, long-term careers in traditionally male-dominated industries — including construction, clean energy, advanced manufacturing, and digital technology. We look forward to assisting the ESI team to launch this program into the Western Riverina in coming months. 

GOO also attended the annual Griffith Careers & Employment Expo as an exhibitor and presenter in October. These expos are used by GOO to obtain data from attending students about their plans after high school.  Data is compared to previous years events and other expos to highlight trends in the cohorts each year. These reports and data can be obtained on the RDA Riverina website. 

'Behind Schools Gates' will also be held in October with over 20 industry partipatns registered. Murrumbidgee Regional High School (Wade site) is hosting the Term 4 tour.  The 'Behind School Gates' is a a GOO initiative that has been established to continue to bridge the gap between education providers and local industry. Building connection, through knowledge and understanding is a powerful tool in continuing to build our local workforce from this grass roots level.

We look forward to hosting local business and industry within various educational institutions throughout the year, and thank our partner in this initivate Griffith Business Chamber for thier ongoing support. 

A Place to Belong: Tumut’s Welcoming Event Unites Locals and Newcomers

Tumut recently witnessed one of its biggest and most heart-warming community gatherings through the Tumut Welcoming Event on 10th October 2025, a special evening that brought together locals, new residents, community leaders, and cultural groups to celebrate belonging and connection.

The event was proudly hosted by Jay, our Local Connector, in partnership with Snowy Valleys Council and Business Snowy Valleys. It was truly inspiring to see people from diverse backgrounds gather under one roof to share stories, enjoy good food, and create new friendships, all in the spirit of community.

The evening commenced with a moving Welcome to Country by Aunty Sue Bulger, followed by an official welcome from Mayor Julia Ham, who warmly greeted new residents to the Snowy Valleys region. Their words set the tone for an evening filled with unity, inclusion, and gratitude.

Adding to the vibrant atmosphere, the event was graced by several distinguished community leaders, including Deputy Mayor Hugh Packard, Councillor Trina Thomson, Jessica Quilty (General Manager, Snowy Valleys Council), Michael Hannah (President, Business Snowy Valleys), and Pastor Eddie Olsen from the Tumut Community Church. Their presence underscored the strong regional commitment to fostering inclusivity and supporting newcomers as they settle into the community.

The event was made even more special thanks to the generous contributions of local groups. The MOSAIC Multicultural Group Ladies and the Tumut Community Church who prepared a delicious selection of home-baked cakes, filling the room with warmth and sweetness. Meanwhile, the Rotary Club of Tumut kindly organised a community BBQ, the mouth-watering aroma of grilled food drifting through the evening air brough everyone together in conversation and laughter.

As music and laughter filled the air, the highlight came when the Fijian Community took the stage with soulful songs in their native language, bringing an emotional and joyful energy that had everyone applauding in admiration. Many of the new residents and essential workers who recently relocated to the Snowy Valleys through the Welcome Experience Program expressed just how meaningful the evening was for them. It provided not just an opportunity to connect with others, but also a genuine sense of belonging and inclusion in their new home.

“Events like this make us feel that we truly belong,” one participant shared. “It’s not just about meeting people, it’s about finding our place in this community.”

The Tumut Welcoming Event was more than a night of celebration; it was a statement of who the Snowy Valleys are, a community that opens its arms, celebrates its diversity, and believes that every new beginning deserves a warm welcome.

Survey Extended One Week - We Need Your Input!

Credit: Matt Beaver

Business NSW has extended its 2025 Workforce Skills Survey for ONE week, we need your input!.

The survey provides valuable insights into the skills and training needs of employers across NSW.

The 2024 survey found a shortage of skills across NSW, with 77% of employers indicating they were unable to recruit the people they need. Ongoing shortages continue to have an impact, with 38% of employers facing significant challenges as a result.

The data collected from the Riverina Murray will not only go into the full Business NSW Workforce Skills Survey report, but through a collaboration between RDA Riverina and Business NSW Riverina Murray, will also produce a more detailed report, focusing on the issues here in our region.

Your input will help us understand how employers are keeping pace with a dynamic and changing labour market, and inform improvements that help employers meet their skills needs.

Rachel Whiting, CEO and Director of Regional Development Australia - Riverina, said “We are thrilled to be working with Business NSW Riverina Murray to support the Business NSW  2025 Workforce Skills Survey. This collaboration with Business NSW Riverina Murray will give us more data to advocate for the needs of businesses in our region in addressing the workforce shortages.”

Business nsw 2025 workforce skills survey

Credit: Matt Beaver

Business NSW has launched its 2025 Workforce Skills Survey.

The survey provides valuable insights into the skills and training needs of employers across NSW.

The 2024 survey found a shortage of skills across NSW, with 77% of employers indicating they were unable to recruit the people they need. Ongoing shortages continue to have an impact, with 38% of employers facing significant challenges as a result.

The data collected from the Riverina Murray will not only go into the full Business NSW Workforce Skills Survey report, but through a collaboration between RDA Riverina and Business NSW Riverina Murray, will also produce a more detailed report, focusing on the issues here in our region.

Your input will help us understand how employers are keeping pace with a dynamic and changing labour market, and inform improvements that help employers meet their skills needs.

Rachel Whiting, CEO and Director of Regional Development Australia - Riverina, said “We are thrilled to be working with Business NSW Riverina Murray to support the Business NSW  2025 Workforce Skills Survey. This collaboration with Business NSW Riverina Murray will give us more data to advocate for the needs of businesses in our region in addressing the workforce shortages.”

Building a Life in Griffith | The Welcome Experience SUccess Story

Image L to R: Channa, Mark, Annabel, Hueng and Marg Couch

Hui and Channa, relocated to Griffith from China via Adelaide with their two teenage children when Channa accepted a full-time teaching role. Having moved often, they approached the transition with open minds, focusing on work and community rather than expectations. A pre-move visit and warm welcome from Local Connector Marg Couch, RDA Riverina, and Projects Officer, Katie Pastro, RDA Riverina helped them solidify their decision. The Welcome Experience played a key role, connecting them to real estate agents, job opportunities, and Griffith Connections social events that eased their integration.

Initial challenges included navigating Australia’s rental system and limited access to some of their favourite Asian Style fresh ingredients, but the family adapted quickly. Hui found work through local Facebook listings, and Channa appreciated the slower pace of regional life. Outside of school their children joined the Griffith Concert Band, leading to enriching experiences like performing with the Griffith Jazz Ensemble, Kapooka Army Band and participating in ANZAC Day events. The family also became active in the West Griffith Soccer Club, expanding their social circles.

Though they don’t socialise extensively outside work, they feel a strong sense of belonging through community involvement. Living in Griffith has helped them grow professionally and personally, reinforcing the value of regional life. Their story showcases how essential workers can thrive in welcoming, connected communities like Griffith.

Image: One of the children playing The Last Post at ANZAC Day 2025

Image: Channa playing at the Pioneer Park

Grow Our Own Idustry Tours

Throughout August, Katie Pastro, Projects officer - Grow Our Own Western Riverina, has been busy coordinating a series of industry tours aimed at showing high school students the wide range of career opportunities available across the Riverina.

As part of the Grow Our Own initiative, Katie has organised and led a series of industry tours that give students a behind-the-scenes look at the diverse range of careers available locally. These experiences have taken students into workplaces across sectors like agriculture, food production, trades, logistics, health, and more, highlighting the real-world skills, people, and pathways that keep the Riverina thriving.

The tours are designed to bridge the gap between school and the workforce, helping students see the value of staying local and contributing to their community. For many, it’s the first time they’ve seen the scale and variety of opportunities that exist beyond their school gates.

Katie’s work has not only opened doors for students, it’s also strengthened connections between schools and local employers, laying the groundwork for future partnerships, work experience placements, and career pathways.

By the end of August, dozens of students will have taken part in these tours, each walking away with a clearer picture of what their future could look like and the confidence to pursue it.

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 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 welcomed 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