Brewarrina Visitors Centre was the place to be last Friday evening as community members gathered to welcome new residents to the town.

Showcasing the area's diversity and sense of community spirit, Brewarrina Shire Council General Manager David Kirby and Deputy Mayor Vivian Slack Smith greeted new residents with the intent to foster new connections and friendships.

 “Our Welcome to Brewarrina event is an annual highlight for me,” said Mr Kirby.

Councillor Michael Pedersen and General Manager David Kirby welcoming new residents to Brewarrina - Image supplied by Brewarrina Shire Council.

It’s an invaluable opportunity to celebrate the diverse backgrounds of our community and the strong sense of connection that binds everyone together. It helps new residents and their families settle in by providing them with a platform to meet others, build networks and learn more about our area and the services and opportunities available, so they can feel right at home.

“It was wonderful to welcome our newest residents, some of whom have arrived from across the globe, including Sri Lanka, Nepal and Nigeria, and as well as those from across the state, such as Canberra.

“I wholeheartedly welcome you the Brewarrina Shire. I’m sure once you get a taste of our region and our friendly community, you will never want to leave Bre!”

Ramesh Selliah attended the Welcome evening as a new Brewarrina resident - Image supplied.

Ramesh Selliah moved to Australia from Sri Lanka in 2008 with his family and has worked in Darwin, Broome and Arnhem land, only recently moving to Brewarrina.

“The night went very well. It was good to meet some of the people of Brewarrina and it was very informative,” said Mr Selliah.

“I met all the other new residents as well as community members, who gave me contact details for services and told me about the town.

“Brewarrina is unique as a small town; it’s a great town. It has its different challenges and things to cater for, but everyone is friendly, laidback and down to earth,” said Mr Selliah.

Sergeant Brad Nicholson, Constable Zach Allan, and Constable Connor Meyers from the Brewarrina Police Station - Image supplied by Brewarrina Shire Council.

With representation from local police, three local schools, Ambulance officers, shearers, mechanics, businesses and council representatives, new residents were given an insight to what the town has to offer.

All new residents were introduced individually by Deputy Mayor Vivian Slack-Smith, with many of them expressing their happiness at the sense of community they felt since moving to town.

St Patrick’s Primary School teachers Joanne Potts and Miranda Allan on hand to welcome new residents - Image supplied by Brewarrina Shire Council

“This diverse turnout of proud community members and local businesspeople underscores our community's very special welcoming nature and commitment to supporting its members,” said Mr Kirby.

“The evening was a resounding success, and I am very proud to be upholding and showcasing Brewarrina's reputation as a community that embraces diversity and fosters a sense of belonging for all its residents,” he said.