On March 20, the Lightning Ridge Rotary Club held one of two welcome events for new residents in Walgett Shire.

An annual get together organised by Walgett Shire Council at the town's Multi-Purpose Centre gave the service group a chance to cater and manage the event.

Local Rotarian, John Bevan said it was a very successful evening.

"We had about 20 people come along, which included about eight new residents," he said. "This year we also had a couple of people who lived in Lightning Ridge about 40 years ago and have decided to move back.

"Other community groups came along to provide information so new residents know what is available in Lightning Ridge."

Alana Douglas, Senior Visitor Information Officer for Walgett Shire said the Council put on three welcome events every March in Lightning Ridge, Walgett and Collarenebri, although only two welcome events took place this time.

"We didn't hold one in Colly this year, and that was just based on community feedback, but we will do again in the future," she said. "We had a great turnout at Walgett though, with 50 to 60 people turning up."

Some of the crowd enjoying the welcome at Lighting Ridge recently. PHOTO SUPPLIED.

Ms Douglas said the aim of the events was to help new residents familiarise themselves with the local area.

"Basically we try and get new people in the Shire to meet each other and become aware of local groups. We give them a welcome pack with contact details for community resources and groups like hospitals and businesses."

Ms Douglas said this year they even had lucky door prizes with a genuine Lightning Ridge monopoly board being on offer as the prize.

The welcome event gives newcomers the opportunity to find out about volunteering in local groups. Noel Hodges (long time Rotarian) and Neroli Bevan show the crowd Noel's fall alarm, organised by the Rotary Club for isolated older people in the Lightning Ridge community.

"We will keep doing these events," Ms Douglas said. "We are following up on some new residents questions at the moment.

"For example, finding contact details for particular sporting interests. It was particularly good that this year, the new residents decided to exchange details so they can keep in touch."