Rain Can’t Dampen Spirits at Sirens and Services: Koha Ice Cream Day!

What an incredible afternoon we had today at the Welcome Bay Community Hall for the Sirens and Services: Koha Ice Cream Day! Despite the steady drizzle outside, the hall was absolutely buzzing with keen families, creating a truly heartwarming atmosphere. It was a testament to the incredible spirit of our community that so many turned out, ready to engage and learn, even with the less-than-ideal weather.

The energy inside was palpable from 1 pm right through to 4 pm. It was fantastic to see the hall packed with smiling faces, from curious tamariki to engaged adults, all eager to explore the diverse range of offerings. The success of the day truly exceeded expectations, and a huge shout-out goes to Rebecca Larsen, the event organiser, and the entire team at Western Bay of Plenty Neighbourhood Support for pulling off such a brilliant event in support of the Welcome Bay Community Centre.

The “Safety & Security Expo” aspect was a resounding success, with a fantastic show of community organisations and some impressive business expo-styled setups. Attendees had the opportunity to delve into a wide array of topics, from practical home security tips and alarm systems to crucial scam awareness information. It was invaluable to connect with our local siren services – police, fire, and ambulance – who were on hand to share their expertise and engage with the community. Many also learned about the vital support networks available right here in Welcome Bay.

One of the highlights of the day, particularly for the younger attendees, was the “Learn and Earn” passport. Kids enthusiastically visited the different service stalls, getting their passports stamped as they absorbed valuable safety knowledge. The reward for all that learning? A delicious FREE ice cream! It was a brilliant way to encourage participation and make learning about safety fun and interactive.

Beyond the educational aspects, there was a wonderful sense of community connection. Entertainment for tamariki kept the little ones giggling, and the excitement of spot prizes added another layer of fun to the afternoon. It was also a fantastic opportunity for residents to connect directly with the services that work tirelessly to keep our community safe and strong.

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 embodies the spirit of “koha” (gift) and showcases the strength of our local networks.

Today was more than just an event; it was a vibrant demonstration of community resilience, 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!

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