Announcements - March 17, 2025
Soccer helping new arrivals settle into Mildura
Intereach is helping new arrivals to Mildura connect with their community, build friendships, and gain confidence through sport.
The Intereach Settlement Engagement and Transition Support (SETS) program has partnered with the Football Federation of Sunraysia to host free ‘soccer for all’ sessions, starting on Wednesday 26 March.
Coordinator and SETS Multicultural Worker Alison Fraser said the initiative was a fantastic way to support recent arrivals to Australia in their settlement journey.
“Sport plays a vital part in breaking down barriers and in regional and rural areas, it is an excellent connector for people new to the area,” Alison said.
“For refugee and migrant new arrivals, this can be significantly harder due to language barriers and understanding of culture — for them and locals.
“New arrivals often have a passion for football (soccer) but may not know how to join a team. These sessions will guide them on where to go, introduce them to organisers, and assist with the registration process. We'll also have laptops available for anyone who wants to register for the upcoming season.”
Alison Fraser - SETS Multicultural Worker
The come and try sessions are open to everyone, regardless of age, background, or soccer experience, and aimed to boost people’s sense of belonging and wellbeing.
“Participants will have the chance to play friendly soccer matches over four weeks, meet other community members, and learn how to join local soccer clubs, all with the support from the SETS team and Football Federation of Sunraysia,” Alison said.
Football Federation of Sunraysia General Manager Susan Watts said they were delighted to partner with Intereach and use “the world game” as a wonderful means to facilitate integration and inclusion within the local community.
“Sport has the power to bring people together, and by welcoming new arrivals into the world of local football, we’re helping build more diverse and inclusive communities,” Susan said.
“Our goal is to ensure everyone feels welcome and they feel comfortable in the environment of local football and are encouraged to participate, no matter their background or experience level.”
The sessions will be held on Wednesdays, March 26 and April 2, 9 & 16, from 5.30pm to 7pm at Aero Ovals, 460 Eleventh St, Mildura.
There’s no need to register, just turn up and join in the fun.
For more information, please contact SETS multicultural workers Alison on 0428 446 532 or Nino on 0428 346 855.
To find out about SETS, visit www.intereach.com.au/service/settlement-engagement-and-transition-support-sets/
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