Rural Australians for Refugees (RAR) has built a strong and active presence in Ararat, with a dedicated group of local supporters working to create a welcoming environment for refugees and people seeking asylum.
For more than 10 years, Frank and Alwyn Kitchen have been committed members of the Ararat RAR group. Motivated by the global displacement crisis affecting more than 50 million people, Mr Kitchen said the group was formed because "we believed Ararat could do more to support refugees and displaced people."
Working closely with both Ararat Rural Council and Ararat Neighbourhood House, RAR supports a range of initiatives to help new arrivals settle into our local community, including connecting them to learn to swim programs that teach Australian water safety, and donating essential goods and food.
Mr Kitchen said community events like the upcoming Harmony Day event in Ararat played an important role in bringing people together, no matter what their background.
"We have many cultures now represented in Ararat including Samoan, Filipino and Sudanese families," said Mr Kitchen. "But they don't always have opportunities to connect. Harmony Day gives them that chance. I encourage everyone, no matter where they're from, to come along and enjoy the food, music and performance."
Ararat Rural City Council is partnering with Ararat Neighbourhood House and local volunteer organisations to host the free Harmony Day celebration at Ararat Town Hall on Saturday 21 March from 10.30am to 1pm.
Registrations are essential for catering purposes before Friday 13 March. Community members can register online (find the link at the top of the homepage at www.ararat.vic.gov.au) or visit the Town Hall Box Office located at Ararat Gallery TAMA.
ARCC CEO Dr Tim Harrison said Council offered lots of practical support to migrants and refugees to help them settle into Ararat Rural City, delivered through the Settlement Services program and the CALD Kindergarten Outreach program.
"Koyeh and Anita work closely together to help newcomers from other countries to settle into our community and to make sure they have the support system around them to ensure they thrive and are happy here for many years to come."
