Welcoming Our New Waymakers: A Picnic to Remember
The Welcome Picnic: A Community Celebration in Toowoomba
Hi everyone!
My name is Hilda, and I’m incredibly excited to introduce myself as a student intern with You Belong. I recently had the opportunity to attend the Welcome Picnic, and I couldn’t have asked for a better way to start this journey. There’s nothing like fresh air, good food, and great people to kick off something new—and that’s exactly what our Welcome Picnic was all about! From heartfelt conversations to shared laughter under the sun, the day was a beautiful reminder of the power of inclusion, connection, and showing up for one another. Here’s a little glimpse into the moments that made it so special.
Welcoming New Beginnings: A Joyful Picnic for Our Waymakers!
On April 5th, 2025, Laurel Bank Park was buzzing with life under the glimmering autumn sun as our community came together with great joy to welcome new Waymakers. The day was filled with laughter, deep conversations, and the celebration of diverse cultures. Everyone truly felt a sense of belonging!
Community Leaders Show Support at the Event
Esteemed guests such as Independent Leader Suzie Holt, Cr Kerry Shine, and the Mayor of Toowoomba, Geoff McDonald, attended the event, which highlighted the importance of community leadership and their ongoing support. I was stationed at the welcome desk with Jianna, which was adorned with colorful banners. As people checked in, I shared warm greetings, provided information about the day’s activities, and handed out program pamphlets. It was an honor to meet so many people in a space created to celebrate belonging and new beginnings. I also had the pleasure of interacting with new people, learning their ways of greeting and their traditions, such as how they conduct weddings. We shared experiences, with one common theme: moving to Australia and becoming part of this beautiful community.
A Fun-Filled Day of Activities for All Ages
The picnic's goal was to formally welcome our new Waymakers, but we also ensured there were activities for everyone, from children to elders. Laughter filled the park as families gathered on cozy blankets spread across the lush grass, forming little pockets of connection. Kids joined in the fun with a sense of joy, especially in a section of the park dedicated to child-friendly games. Volunteers ran activities that encouraged kids to interact and form new friendships.
A Taste of Diversity: Culinary Delights at the Picnic
At lunchtime, the Toowoomba West Lions Club served a delicious barbecue they had prepared with great dedication, and we were also treated to the mouth-watering cuisine from Nai Middle Eastern Catering. The scent of grilled meats, fragrant spices, and fresh salads filled the air, tempting everyone to partake in the culinary journey. While some attendees chose to dine outside, the majority gathered inside the beautifully decorated hall, which created a warm, festive atmosphere.
Laughter, Music, and Dance: The Heart of the Picnic
The afternoon was filled with joy thanks to the combination of music and dance performances that lifted everyone’s spirits. It began as a collective experience with everyone participating and swaying to the rhythm. The energy intensified when a group of men stepped forward to showcase their cultural dance, further strengthening the bond between the different cultures present.
From setting up the event and putting up colourful posters to ensuring everyone felt welcomed, You Belong’s volunteers and community members were pillars of generosity. The photography captured candid moments—laughter shared over food, the gentle interactions between newly arrived Waymakers and community members, and the bright smiles of children.
The picnic was not just another gathering; it was a celebration of culture, community, and connections. Welcoming our new Waymakers allowed us to reflect on the spirit of unity and togetherness. Looking around at the contentment, joy, and lively conversations, it’s clear that we achieved our goal.
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Read about another of our welcome picnics.
