The “Hearty Welcome to Coonabarabran” hosted by the 2357 Development Group at the Town Hall on Sunday, 23 July, attracted close to 40 new residents to the event, with 25 community organisations showcasing what services and activities are available in the town.

When asked what drew them to relocate to Coonabarabran, the consensus from newcomers was “the people and the kindness on offer”.

One woman, newly relocated to the town, described how she was overwhelmed with the kindness she received when stopping in Coonabarabran while travelling.

“I went for a walk along the street and I was not feeling very well, so I called into a cafe [Cardians] to order a cup of tea and a sandwich,” she said

“However, I was told the kitchen was closed for meals, so I accepted I would just get my cuppa.

“But, when they brought it out, they had made me a lovely toasted sandwich!

“This was just such a kind gesture, and completely unexpected.”

The woman said continuing her walk along the street she was then astounded by the friendliness of everyone, receiving a “hello”, a smile,oranodfromnearly everyone she passed.

“People here in Coonabarabran are just so beautiful,” she said.

“The people who live here accept this friendliness as normal, but for people who don’t live here, it’s not a normal part of life – it’s amazing!”

New residents were treated to a host of stalls offering displays, informationandcontacts for their services.

“Who knew there were so many volunteer organisations in our town!” said 2357 chairperson, Narelle Pfeiffer.

“No matter what interests you might have, be they arts and crafts, music, service groups, social clubs – there was surely something there to satisfy every hobby or pastime.

“It was also a great opportunity for the locals to see what is on offer in the town.”

Visitors were welcomed firstly by Aunty Maureen Sulter assisted by Aunty Margaret Robinson, followed by Warrumbungle Shire Council mayor, Cr Ambrose Doolan, who all shared in the cutting of the welcome cake.

“To our new residents – welcome to our town,” Cr Doolan said.

“Coonabarabran is a special place. It is the type of town that if you need help, it is there for you.”

A fun element of the welcome was the presentation of several lucky door prizes, donated by various local businesses and which included vouchers for coffee and other goodies.

“If a local wins a prize, you must find someone who is new to town to share it with,” Narelle said.

Summing up the event, Narelle said sharing, meeting new people and making connections were the themes for the day.

“We hope that everyone who has chosen to come and live in Coonabarabran knows that they are welcome, and that, after today, they now know a few more faces, a few new names and a little more about the wealth of activities on offer here,” she said.

“As a matter of interest, 25 of the locals who attended have lived here between 5-20 years, 20 have lived here between 20-40 years, and 40 have lived here for more than 40 years!

“There must be something pretty good about life in Coonabarabran!”