Celebrate Diversity and Connection at Community Welcoming Week Event

Ararat Rural City Council invites all community members to come together for a special Welcoming Week event to celebrate local diversity, inclusion, and belonging.

This free community event will be held on Sunday, 20 September, from 4 pm to 6 pm at Gordon Street Recreation Reserve (1 Gordon Street, Ararat). Afternoon tea will be provided.

Hosted in partnership with Welcoming Australia, Ararat Neighbourhood House, Rural Australia for Refugees, and Wyndham Community & Education Centre, the event highlights the region’s commitment to creating a place where people from all backgrounds feel respected, included, and able to participate in community life.

The celebration coincides with Council renewing its membership with Welcoming Cities for 2026/2027. Welcoming Cities is a national network that supports local governments, organisations, and communities to strengthen inclusion and belonging. This partnership provides access to practical resources, shared learning, professional development, and connections with councils and organisations across Australia.

Ararat Rural City Mayor, Cr Bob Sanders, encouraged all residents to join the celebrations and embrace the region’s cultural richness.

"Welcoming Week is a really important opportunity to recognise the benefits of a diverse and inclusive community," Cr Sanders said. "I really encourage everyone to attend, build new connections, learn from one another, and strengthen the bonds that make our municipality such a resilient and wonderful place to live."

"Diversity is one of our greatest strengths, and migrants play an essential role in driving our region's economic growth and long-term prosperity," Cr Sanders added.

Event Details:

• When: Sunday, 20 September 2026 | 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm
• Where: Gordon Street Recreation Reserve, 1 Gordon Street, Ararat
• Cost: Free (Afternoon tea provided)