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
