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

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