Snowy Valleys Welcomes New Essential Workers Through Community Connections
The Welcome Experience proudly partnered with Snowy Valleys Council, the Snowy Valleys Business Chamber and Harmony Hub to host Meet, Mingle & Connect in Snowy Valleys at Club Tumut, bringing together new essential workers, families, local organisations and community leaders for an evening dedicated to connection, belonging and celebration.
Following the recent expansion of The Welcome Experience across the entire Snowy Valleys Local Government Area from 1 July 2026, the event marked an important milestone in strengthening support for people choosing to live and work in the region. More than a welcome event, it reflected the communities shared commitment to helping new residents feel connected, supported and at home.
The evening was hosted by Jay Ajayakumar, Local Connector for The Welcome Experience, who welcomed guests and highlighted the growing momentum of the program. “Last year’ we organised ‘Tumut Welcome Event’ which demonstrated the value of bringing people together. This year, we’ve seen even greater participation, stronger partnerships and more new families joining us. It shows the Snowy Valleys community is opening its arms to welcome, support and integrate the essential workers who are choosing to build their future here. Communities thrive when everyone plays a role in making people feel they belong.”
Snowy Valleys Mayor Julia Ham officially welcomed new residents, acknowledging the valuable contribution essential workers make to the region and encouraging families to become active members of their new community.
Guests also heard from Janette Wilson from the Country Universities Centre Snowy Valleys, who shared how local university study pathways enable people to complete higher education without leaving the region, creating new opportunities for individuals and families. Kathleen Stewart, Census Engagement Manager with the Australian Bureau of Statistics provided an informative presentation on the importance of participating in the Census and how accurate community data helps shape future services, infrastructure and investment.
The evening was brought to life through interactive activities facilitated by the Harmony Hub team with Tanaye Castles and Indiana Brown leading engaging sessions that celebrated inclusion, diversity and the importance of creating welcoming communities where everyone feels they belong.
Community leaders also shared inspiring perspectives on the power of local connections. Pastor Eddie Olsen from Tumut Community Church spoke about the important role welcome events play in helping newcomers settle and build meaningful relationships, while Robyn Jeffery from Tumut MOSAIC Ladies Group highlighted how genuine human connections strengthen both community wellbeing and workforce attraction and retention.
The overwhelmingly positive feedback from attendees reinforced the value of the initiative, with many expressing appreciation for the opportunity to meet other and calling for more events that celebrate community, connection and inclusion.
As The Welcome Experience continues to expand across the Snowy Valleys, events such as Meet, Mingle & Connect demonstrate that successful regional attraction and retention extends beyond employment. It is the strength of community partnerships, genuine local hospitality and opportunities to build lasting relationships that help transform a relocation into a place people are proud to call home.
Mayor Julia Ham, Snowy Valleys Council, and Jayadev Ajayakumar, Local Connector
