Expo sparks surge in Ballina community group memberships

MORE THAN 115 Ballina shire residents have joined local community groups following the Lennox Head Community Connections Expo earlier this month.

The event connected residents with 40 different groups seeking new members and volunteers.

Ballina Shire B ward councillors Michelle Bailey, Kiri Dicker and Eva Ramsey organised the expo and hope to build on its success.

Cr Dicker said the event gave hundreds of people a chance to connect with local groups.

“We expect that a number of these conversations will convert into new memberships in the coming weeks and months,” she said.

“One of the unexpected benefits was an opportunity for groups to meet and learn about each other’s work.

“I expect lots of opportunities for collaboration will emerge in the coming months.

“I also think people just really appreciated seeing their local councillors collaborating on practical activities in their community.”

Louise Southerden took part in the expo with the Lennox Community Gardens group.

She was impressed with the variety of groups at the event and hopes to go again next year.

“It was so uplifting to see so many people volunteering for our community,” she said.

“There were all sorts of causes and activities, and it was fantastic to see all the community groups interacting with each other.

“I was able chat with people from Northern Rivers Wildlife Carers, Brunch Choir, Lennox Head Landcare, Ballina Environment Society and so many more groups.

“It really makes you feel good about your community to see so many people working to make it a better place.”

Cr Dicker said they plan to run the expo again next year and hopes similar events will be held in Alstonville and Ballina.