Community Gathers For Welcoming Week Afternoon Tea

Ararat Rural City Council has thanked community members, volunteers, and local organisations who came together for a Welcoming Week afternoon tea on Sunday 20 September at the Gordon Street Recreation Reserve.

The event provided an opportunity for people from across the municipality to share food, conversation, and connection, celebrating the many people and cultures that make Ararat Rural City a welcoming place to call home.

Mayor Cr Bob Sanders said it was wonderful to see such a strong turnout for the afternoon. “It was a great turnout, and I was thrilled to see so many volunteers and guests coming together to enjoy the afternoon,” Cr Sanders said.

“Events such as this give us the chance to meet new people, share stories, and recognise the generosity that exists throughout our community. I thank everyone who attended, contributed food, offered their time, or helped make guests feel welcome.”

Council extends its thanks to event partners Regional Australians for Refugees and Ararat Neighbourhood House, as well as Anita San Ba and Koyeh Talor from Council’s Settlement Support Team for coordinating the event.

Council also acknowledges the volunteer cooks and helpers whose efforts supported the afternoon tea, and Bakers Delight for generously providing bread for guests to enjoy.

Welcoming Week was marked through a series of activities and messages celebrating inclusion, belonging, and the contribution of people from all backgrounds to the Ararat Rural City community.