Welcome Home, Council Invites New Residents to Connect and Celebrate C

Published on 09 February 2026

Southern Grampians Shire Council is warmly inviting new residents to come together for an evening of connection, conversation and community at its annual New Residents Function, to be held on Tuesday 24 February 2026.

This year’s theme, “Welcome Home”, aims to celebrate the people, places and opportunities that make the Southern Grampians such a special place to live.

With a new venue, and local entertainment adding to the atmosphere, the evening promises a relaxed and engaging introduction to life in the region.

Southern Grampians Shire Council Mayor Dennis Heslin said the event is an important opportunity for Council to personally welcome people who have chosen to make the Southern Grampians their home.

“Whether you’ve just arrived or have been quietly settling in for a while, this evening is about helping people feel connected and supported.

“The ‘Welcome Home’ theme reflects what we hear time and again, that this is a place where people feel they belong.

“Guests can enjoy local entertainment, great food and plenty of opportunities to ask questions and discover what the region has to offer,” Cr Heslin concluded.

The New Residents Function will bring together a wide range of local volunteer organisations, sporting clubs and community groups, all eager to share information and help newcomers find ways to get involved.

Attendees will have the chance to meet lifelong locals, fellow new residents and Council representatives in a friendly, informal setting.

The New Residents Function will be held at 6:00pm on Tuesday 24 February 2026, at the Melville Oval Function Room, 18 Market Place, Hamilton.

Please RSVP via the QR code or to Eda Williamson on (03) 5573 0444 or via email at ewilliamson@sthgrampians.vic.gov.au.

Southern Grampians Shire Council looks forward to welcoming residents, new and not-so-new, home.

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