Welcoming the new faces

MEETING friends and getting involved with community groups is challenging when it comes to settling into a new town.

To cater for the increasing number of newcomers to the Blackall Range, the Lions Club will be hosting its seventh annual Welcome Dinner on Wednesday, September 19.

The event has developed over the years, attracting businesses and community groups from around the Range, along with yearly new faces.

Organiser Colin Sinclaire said the aim of the night was for newcomers to meet people and feel a part of the community.

"It's amazing in this community how many people you can meet if you really put your mind to it," he said.

"A lot of newcomers are from pretty foreign parts and it's amazing to see how many different people are in the community.

"The night is all about meeting new people and learning about the area."

Representatives from the local SES, police, library and key businesses in the area will be there to provide newcomers with information.

Over the last seven years, more than 1000 people have attended the evening, using it as an opportunity to gain contacts in the area.

Residents anywhere from Maleny down to Mapleton are welcome to attend, and can buy tickets from Network Video in the Riverside Centre, Soothe Hairdressing in Montville or from Lions Club member Colin Sinclaire on 5435 2867.

Mr Sinclaire originally started the evening after moving to Maleny eight years ago with his wife.

He said since then he had gained friends from around the Blackall Range and felt more a part of the community.

"We initially started the evening as a community service of the Lions Club, but now it's started attracting sponsors because they've wanted to get involved with newcomers," he said.

"It's become a good thing not only for new people to the area, but for local business and community groups."