Welcoming Week 2023: Embracing the Power of Place in Murray Bridge
Welcome to Welcoming Week 2023 in the Rural City of Murray Bridge, where diversity, unity and inclusivity take centre stage. From 8 – 17 September we invite you to join us in celebrating the strength of our vibrant community and fostering a sense of belonging for all.
About Welcoming Week:
Welcoming Week is an annual campaign that connects communities around the world through community-led activities and events. It's a time to showcase the movement of creating welcoming places for everyone, including migrants, refugees, people seeking asylum, international students and all members of the community.
This Year's Theme: Power of Place
The theme for Welcoming Week 2023 is "Power of Place." We're shining a spotlight on the influence of environments – from neighbourhoods to workplaces, schools, places of worship, and beyond – in shaping a sense of belonging. It's a reminder that these spaces play a vital role in fostering unity and inclusivity.
Our Events and Activities:
We are hosting a range of engaging events that encourage connections, conversations and cultural exchanges. These events aim to bridge differences and build lasting connections among community members.
Head to the Murray Bridge Regional Gallery for a creative Welcoming Week experience.
Image: KATH INGLIS, A LEI FROM THE WELCOME MAT, 2017, FACETED SEGMENTS HAND CUT FROM USED THONGS, SILK THREAD, STERLING SILVER + PATINA, 450 X 130 X 25MM. PHOTO: KATH INGLIS
Embrace the power of stories and culture during Welcoming Week 2023!
Teatu’s story
The island of Kiribati (pronounced Kiribas) is 5360km away from Murray Bridge- that’s a long way from where Teatu grew up. Whilst she loved the community and family connection on the island, Teatu fell in love and married Australian–born George. When work brought him back to Australia, he brought Teatu too.
Leaving their children in the care of her parents, Teatu and George looked for a place to call home. After many moves, they both felt most welcomed in Murray Bridge. The two words Teatu emphasized were ‘not alone’. Neighbours check in regularly and bring meals over whenever Teatu is sick or when George travels away for work. The community has really supported them to feel very settled very quickly. There is also a small but strongly connected Kiribati community in Murray Bridge which offers a wonderful amount of support.
Through her many new friendships, Teatu has become involved in the local Dragon boats. Growing up on a small island, Teatu has been paddling a canoe for much of her life and has become a valued asset to the team. She has also felt incredibly supported and welcomed by Bao Luo from the Murraylands Migrant Resource Centre and was honoured that the Mayor attended the small Kiribati Independence Day celebration recently held in Murray Bridge.
Murray Bridge feels like home now. Teatu loves her position at Big River Pork and the team she works with. There are good schools, good parks, churches and shopping all close by. Later this year they aim to bring their children to share life in Murray Bridge and we look forward to welcoming them here too.
Message from Mayor Wayne Thorley:
"Being welcoming goes beyond friendliness; it's about fostering intentional inclusivity," says Mayor Wayne Thorley. "Welcoming Week is our opportunity to strengthen the voices and experiences of migrants, refugees, Ngarrindjeri and every member of our community. Let's work together towards thriving communities for all."
Acknowledging First Nations:
We acknowledge that Welcoming Week takes place on the lands of the Ngarrindjeri people. We recognise and appreciate the essential role of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples in promoting a welcoming atmosphere. We honour their presence and their ongoing contributions.
Get Involved:
Your participation is crucial to making Welcoming Week a success. Join us in embracing inclusivity, understanding, and unity. Attend our events, engage in conversations, and share your stories to contribute to the richness of our community. Use #PowerOfPlace and #WelcomingWeek to share your experiences on social media.
Celebrate the Power of Place:
Welcoming Week 2023 is a time to celebrate the Power of Place – the impact of environments on fostering a sense of belonging. Let's come together as a community, deepen our commitment to inclusivity and create spaces where everyone can truly belong, contribute, and thrive.
Contact Information:
For more details regarding Welcoming Week and how you can engage in its activities, please reach out to Simone at 08 8539 1182 or via email at S.Zrna@murraybridge.sa.gov.au.
Join us during Welcoming Week 2023 as we celebrate the Power of Place and the strength of our diverse community. Together, we can make a positive impact and create a welcoming atmosphere for all.
The Rural City of Murray Bridge is proud to be an accredited Welcoming City