Welcome Bay Community Spirit Shines at “Sirens and Services” Event

Despite a steady drizzle, the Welcome Bay Community Hall was buzzing with excitement at the “Sirens and Services: Koha Ice Cream Day.” The weather couldn’t dampen the spirits of the many families who turned out, creating a truly heartwarming atmosphere and showing the incredible resilience of our community.

The event, which ran from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., was a huge success. The hall was packed with curious kids and engaged adults eager to explore all the day had to offer. A special thank you goes out to Rebecca Larsen, the event organizer, and the entire team at Western Bay of Plenty Neighbourhood Support for putting on such a brilliant event in support of the Welcome Bay Community Centre.

A Focus on Safety and Security

A major part of the day was the “Safety & Security Expo,” which featured a wide range of community organizations and businesses. Attendees could learn about everything from home security tips and alarm systems to crucial scam awareness information. It was also a great chance to connect with our local police, fire, and ambulance services, who were on hand to share their expertise. Many people also learned about the vital support networks available right here in Welcome Bay.

A highlight for the kids was the “Learn and Earn” passport. Children eagerly visited the different stalls, getting their passports stamped as they absorbed valuable safety knowledge. Their reward for all that learning? A delicious free ice cream! It was a brilliant way to make learning about safety fun and interactive.

More Than Just an Event

Beyond the educational aspects, the day was a true celebration of community. There was entertainment for the kids, and spot prizes added another layer of fun to the afternoon. It was a perfect opportunity for residents to connect directly with the people and services that work tirelessly to keep our community safe.

The generosity of our community was also on full display, with many families bringing non-perishable food items to contribute to the Welcome Bay Community Centre’s support efforts. This truly embodied the spirit of “koha” (gift) and highlighted the strength of our local networks.

The “Sirens and Services” event was more than just a day out; it was a vibrant display of community engagement and collaboration. Even with the rain, the Welcome Bay Community Hall was a beacon of warmth, learning, and connection. We’re already looking forward to the next one!