THE amount of time spent living in Cohuna was secondary to most conversations had across the dinner table at the town’s annual community barbecue, held at Apex Park on Friday night.
Instead, conversations were sparked by the shared lifestyle and natural serenity, as new friendships were forged at the Cohuna Neighbourhood House hosted event.
Close to 50 “locals” and new arrivals enjoyed the sit-down meal, cooked by Cohuna Men’s Shed volunteers, with a beverage overlooking the Gunbower Creek.
Gavin and Carol Smith moved to Cohuna two years ago, having previously lived in Melbourne and Queensland before travelling across the country.
“We stopped and had a look around. The rest is history,” Mr Smith said.
The retired truck driver said the relaxed atmosphere and the friendliness of the townspeople lured the couple to purchase a home.
“It was hard at first because we didn’t know anyone, but we now volunteer so that has made it an enjoyable transition.”
Mrs Smith volunteers at the trash and treasure shop, meals on wheels and the retirement village.
“We enjoy coming to social events like this just to mingle with people we may not have yet to meet. It’s great to chat about how things were years ago around town, and most have interesting stories to share,” she said.
Cohuna Neighbourhood House co-ordinator, Cathy Donehue said she was pleased with the community support.
“We had a great number of new people to town and appreciated the locals who attended that made them feel very welcome,” she said.
“It is great for new people to town to feel welcome and get an understanding of what our community offers in a relaxed environment.”
