By Fiona Blick, Committee for Greater Shepparton Community Connector Program
BRYONY grew up in London but wanted to explore some warmer climbs so made the leap and moved to Australia almost two years ago.
She left her parents and younger brother in the UK and set up in Shepparton, where she works as a programs coordinator at the Shepparton Art Museum (SAM).
“This is my dream role, so when I saw it advertised, I went for it,” Bryony said. “I was also drawn to Shepparton because I feel really passionate about creating opportunities in the arts for regional communities.
“It is so inspiring to see a regional centre investing in a wonderful space like SAM, one that gives local creatives and art lovers access to art right on their doorstep.
“It made me feel like I had found a community that is open, supportive and deeply values the arts.”
Bryony is currently renting and said when she arrived in Shepparton she was essentially starting from scratch.
“I was a bit worried about how easy it would be to make friends and fill my pretty big social cup,” she said. “Within a week of my moving, I was introduced to the Community Connector Program (CCP), which vanished any of my previous concerns completely.
“And from there, I was introduced to GV Young Professionals and loved it so much I joined the committee!”
Bryony said she was so surprised by the region’s events calendar.
“There is never a dull moment with events going on that suit a variety of different interests,” she said. “The CCP shares so much information through its private social media page, plus the Program hosts social catch ups for clients to meet and start connecting.
“Shepparton has enabled me to reconnect with hobbies that I’d forgotten about, like dancing and theatre.
“So, with the help from the Community Connector Program, within a week of moving I had met some great people and within a month or two, I was already joining clubs.”
For more information on the C4GS Community Connector Program, go to the website www.c4gs.com.au, or phone Connector Coordinator Fiona Blick on 0499 351 441.
