Get To Know Your Town

We are launching a new series of Get To Know Your Town events across the Shire. These friendly, relaxed gatherings are designed to help new community members feel at home, meet people and discover everything their town has to offer. While the initiative is designed to support new residents, all community members - new, long‑term and everyone in-between - are warmly invited to attend and help welcome their neighbours.

These events will be held annually in Beechworth, Chiltern, Rutherglen, Tangambalanga/Kiewa and Yackandandah, with each town hosting its own local celebration.

What these events are about

These Get To Know Your Town festivals are designed to:

• Help new residents connect with others in their community
• Introduce people to local clubs, groups, activities and services
• Support volunteering and community participation
• Strengthen social connection and belonging
• Showcase the diversity of leisure, recreation and creative opportunities in each town
• Provide a warm welcome from Council, including the Mayor and Councillors

These events are part of Council’s commitment to building strong, connected and inclusive communities across Indigo Shire.

What to expect

Each event is a relaxed, family‑friendly outdoor gathering featuring:

• A welcome from Council
• Stalls and displays from local clubs, groups and community organisations
• Opportunities to meet new people and learn what’s happening in town
• Activities for children
• Food and refreshments
• Live entertainment
• A friendly, social atmosphere where everyone is welcome

The format is similar to a community expo or mini‑festival, with groups such as sporting clubs, arts organisations, gardening clubs, book clubs, U3A, CFA, Landcare, pony club, dog obedience groups and more showcasing what they do.

Why these events matter

Moving to a new town can be exciting but it can also be challenging to meet people and find your place. These events aim to:

• Help residents feel settled and supported
• Reduce social isolation
• Encourage participation in local activities
• Strengthen community resilience
• Support volunteer‑run groups to attract new members
• Build long‑term community pride and connection

Research and community feedback show that people who feel welcomed and connected are more likely to stay, contribute and thrive. Strong social ties are also linked with better mental wellbeing, helping people feel supported, confident and part of something bigger.

Events

Chiltern Festival

Date: Friday 6 March
Time: 5-8pm
Location: Old Courthouse Grounds, Main Street, Chiltern
Cost: Free
What to bring: Picnic rug or chair

Stay connected

More welcome events will be held throughout the year in other towns. Check this page for updates, event details and future dates and follow us on Facebook.