Ararat Rural City Council extended a warm welcome to a second group of visitors who joined a bus tour of Ararat last week, as part of the Ararat Settlement Activity Program.
Participants from Melbourne enjoyed a guided tour of the Ararat town centre with stops including the Visitor Information Centre, Gason, AME Systems, Ararat Town Hall, Alexandra Gardens and our Community Garden, Ararat Neighbourhood House, several primary and secondary schools, Green Hill Lake, and One Tree Hill Lookout.
The program has attracted over 40 new residents into secure, long-term jobs in Ararat. Earlier this year, Maung Thaung Aye attended the first of several planned bus tours and spoke of his experience as a participant in the program and what his hopes for a future here in Ararat are.
"I was referred to the Ararat Settlement Activity Program by my job provider, who recommended I attend an Ararat bus tour," Maung Thaung said. "Before that, I participated in an information session about Ararat, where I learned about the job opportunities available. During the bus tour, I discovered that Ararat is conveniently situated near the Grampians, with workplaces and amenities in close proximity. Compared to Melbourne, traffic is minimal in Ararat.
"Council assisted me by explaining the induction and application process, and helping me apply for a job at Ararat Meat Exports. Looking ahead, once I have settled into my new job, I hope to eventually buy a home in Ararat".
The initiative is part of an ongoing partnership between Council and the Wyndham Community Education Centre. It focuses on job-matching potential settlers with local employers looking to fill existing roles and grow a diverse and inclusive workforce.
"Through our partnership with the Wyndham Community Education Centre, we're paving the way for long-term employment and community integration," says Ararat Rural City Council CEO, Dr Tim Harrison. "Our commitment to the Ararat Settlement Activity Program underscores our belief in fostering both cultural diversity and economic development, ensuring a vibrant future for all residents."
Council is dedicated to supporting people from all backgrounds to create a welcoming and cohesive rural city, where all members, including migrants and refugee communities, can participate in all areas of community life.
