Moving to a new town for work can be daunting but more free social events might be the perfect way to turn strangers into neighbours and help new residents feel right at home in Glen Innes and Inverell.
Local Connect is inviting essential workers, community members and local supporters to join their upcoming Welcome Events – friendly, informal gatherings designed to help newly arrived professionals settle in, make friends, and feel part of the local fabric. Welcome pizza nights are planned for the Great Central Hotel on July 19, and The Welder’s Dog Inverell on July 29.
The events are part of the Welcome Experience, a practical, people-first initiative that tackles one of the biggest challenges in rural workforce retention: helping newcomers form genuine social connections. It’s backed by the findings of the Attract, Connect, Stay research, which shows that people are far more likely to stay in regional areas when they feel socially supported outside of work. These events are also happening in other centres as part of the Welcome Experience.
“We know that when essential workers form genuine relationships outside of work, they are more likely to put down roots and stay in the region,” said Margot Davis, executive manager of Local Connect.
“That’s why we’re calling on our members and the wider community to join us at these events and help extend a warm welcome.”
Since launching, the Welcome Experience has already helped 23 essential workers move to Glen Innes or Inverell. Participants include professionals from health, aged care, ambulance services, education, and communities and justice; fields that are crucial to the functioning of rural towns and often face serious workforce shortages.
The results are encouraging, with more people registering for support through Local Connect and following through with the move – an early sign that the program is hitting the mark.
The upcoming events are open to new-to-area workers, Local Connect members, and like-minded locals keen to lend a welcoming hand. More than just a casual catch-up, they offer an opportunity to create the kind of personal connections that make someone want to stay for the long haul.
“These are people who have made a big decision to live and work in our towns,” Davis said.
“The simple act of inviting them for a cuppa and a chat can make a world of difference.”
Attendance is free, but numbers are limited so booking ahead is essential. To find out more or reserve your place at the next event, visit www.localconnect.org.au/events.
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