Around 45 new residents and community members gathered at The Welder’s Dog Inverell on Tuesday 29 July for a relaxed night of food, live music and social connection – part of The Welcome Experience, a NSW Government–funded program designed to help settle and retain essential service workers who move to regional communities.
Local Connect is proud to deliver this program locally, supporting new-to-area essential workers in both Inverell and Glen Innes. Delivered through dedicated Local Connectors, The Welcome Experience provides tailored settlement support and creates opportunities for newcomers to build genuine connections with the broader community.
“This was more than just a social event – it was an important part of delivering the Welcome Experience program and ensuring new essential workers feel supported and connected,” said Margot Davis, Executive Manager of Local Connect. “We know from the Attract, Connect, Stay research that when people feel socially connected, they’re more likely to stay long-term.”
Led by Community Connector Emma Johnson, the Inverell event welcomed essential workers who had already moved to the region, while also raising awareness of the program and encouraging eligible attendees to register. Once registered, participants gain access to ongoing support, resources, and social activities to help them settle in and thrive.
“The event provided an inclusive and welcoming space for new residents to establish friendships and feel a sense of belonging,” Emma said. “We’ve had so much positive feedback – and the community really embraced the opportunity to connect and share experiences.”
“While my role focuses on supporting essential workers under the Welcome Experience, these events also bring together the wider community and help build a stronger social fabric for all.”
Local Connect would like to thank Inverell Shire Council Mayor Kate Dight, Deputy Mayor Jo Williams, Councillor Fiona Brown, and Councillor Ian Hooker for attending and contributing to a great evening.
Local Connect will continue to deliver events across the region to help new residents feel at home and supported in their relocation.
🔗 To learn more or register for The Welcome Experience, visit:
www.nsw.gov.au/makethemove/welcome-experience
📅 To stay updated on Local Connect’s upcoming social events, visit:
www.localconnect.org/events
📱 Follow us on Facebook @thewelcomeexperience.nne and Instagram @thewelcomeexperience.nne
Media Release: Local connect
