Partnership Forum visits in Tamworth and Orange - 23/04/10

Jodi Cryan writes:

This week, Josh and I had the great experience of visiting regional NSW. To be honest, I didn’t know what to expect but I must say that Orange and Tamworth were two forums that surpassed my expectations.

The people we met and the positive feedback we received from them for making the effort to visit their towns really makes the trip and our job so worthwhile. While the numbers are never as large as the metropolitan forums, what you experience in towns like Orange and Tamworth is passion and genuine community spirit.

I love how everyone knows everyone. I love that people arrive on time (often bringing friends) and always want to stay after the forum for a chat. Both towns have a population of approx 45,000 and are full of friendly and extremely proud locals. I think every cab ride featured a mini history lesson and their tips for what’s best in town!

In Orange, I will never forget John…a gorgeous elderly man who has worked (and lived!) for over 40 years in the Town Hall where our forum was held. He could not have been more delightful, helpful and proud of his Town Hall.

I also remember Lisa who travelled over two hours to the Orange forum and works in a school that has only 14 students! Passionate is an understatement for Lisa and despite applying in 2009 and missing out, she was there again determined to re-apply and hopefully be a winner for her community. Check them out at www.nevillensw.com.

In Tamworth, I met Leonie Carter who was involved in our online Discussion Forum two months ago and actually sent me a message as part of my session! What are the chances of meeting one of the 12 people who asked me a question during my session? She loved the concept of our Discussion Forums!

We also met Sam who was one of our NAB volunteers and, believe it or not, when watching our NSW state winner video, recognised Kim who recently opened her own hairdressing business. Sam know’s Kim well and was actually the NAB staff member who opened Kim’s bank account and backed her business!

The forums ran smoothly and the feedback was extremely positive. A number attended in 2009 and commented on the level of professionalism and greater content being delivered in 2010. When it came to the speed dating, everyone wanted to grab Josh or myself and use the time to ask as many questions as possible. My ‘to do’ list is a mile long now as I have loads to follow up for everyone!

In Tamworth we had approx 12 walk-ins which is always a sign of our local NAB staff that go over and above to contact relevant groups in the community. As a result, we had the President of the local Lions Club and even the Girl Guides to name a few. Meeting the Girl Guides took me back to my youth and I had fun thinking of some potential partnership ideas for them.

Both towns are a one hour flight from Sydney, both have a similar town centre and both surpassed my expectations in regards to the people, passion and partnerships.

Farewell big guitar and Orange…And good luck with your applications!