Velika and I started the month of April through pride and diversity as we welcome new members into our community at the monthly Citizenship Ceremony. Individuals from various locations around the globe took their oath, signifying their commitment to our city and country.
Friends, families, organistions came together in their superhero attire for a special stroll through Apex Park in support of The Wagga Autism Group raising awareness for Autism within our Community. The event was filled with excitement from children dressed in their favourite superhero costumes, while parents interacted with the local organisations that were present at the time, displaying the services they offer.
I had the honour to present a Community Princess Grant to a local community group, Riverina Rollers. Riverina Rollers encourages health and fitness to different ages, allowing new individuals to join at any time. It was a lovely afternoon interacting with those involved, and seeing the skills they have learnt.
Velika and I had an MC Development Session with Lindsay Tanner, where he offered his skills, advice and knowledge on how to MC an event to perfection. We ran through the runsheet, made many changes, practiced presenting both sitting down, and standing up. He provided us with 10 tips, something that we will hold onto forever. We are so grateful for the support that both Ali and Lindsay provide to the Quest, and we truly wouldn't be in the position we are today if it wasn't for their endless support.
Newcomers to Wagga were greeted with open arms and warm smiles at the recent Welcome to Wagga Event held at the Riverside Precinct. Against the calm backdrop of the Murrumbidgee River, friendships blossomed as locals, including Velika and I shared our love for our City, spoke about what we enjoyed doing in our spare times, good restaurants to eat at and traditional Wagga events. It was a heartwarming introduction to Wagga Wagga’s vibrant Community Spirit, and an event that we both love to attend.
We attended our second Citizenship Ceremony for the month, where another three groups committed to their Oath, reinforcing their dedication to our City and Nation. Citizenship Ceremonies are always one of our favourite events to attend, as they are a very heartfelt occasion, reminding us just how lucky we are to call Wagga home.
Velika, Ali and I joined the Entrants for a spectacular Dining Etiquette Workshop held at the amazing Hide Steak & Bar. Sarn provided insights on how to formally eat at a table, the correct way to use your cutlery, and how to determine which glass and bread on the table is yours - something Velika and I will always remember. We shared and tasted different entrees, a large variety of meat for main course and a delicious cheesecake dessert that melted in your mouth. It was a lovely night, where we all shared many laughs, life stories and overall good times with each other. It was a great opportunity for Velika and I to be able to interact with and create a stronger bond with our Entrants. We cannot wait for their year ahead. We are so grateful for the support that Jamie, Sarn and the team at Hide Steak & Bar provide to the Quest.
As the sun rose over Victory Memorial Gardens, the Wagga Community stood in remembrance during the ANZAC Day Ceremony. With heads bowed, poppies held and wreaths laid, our community paid tribute to the ongoing courage and sacrifice of those who served our country. Velika and I were given the opportunity to lay a Wreath, we felt so honoured to be able to do something so special. It truly was a moment of reflection and gratitude, honouring the legacy of our heroes.
As April comes to an end, we cannot wait for the next few months, and most importantly to recognise and celebrate our new 2025 Entrants - Velika and I wish them all the very best, and are beyond excited to see their personal growth and confidence boost throughout the year as Entrants.
Jess Barclay, Community Princess