It was a girl’s weekend with a difference when 35 refugee women came down from Sydney to be billeted with local families.

The women came from a range of countries, including the Congo, Sri Lanka, Kenya and Iraq. The idea behind the visits, which have happened to other regional towns, is to create connections and help the new arrivals find out more about living in Australia.

Members of Kiama Welcomes Refugees, Gerringong/Kiama Catholic Church, Gerringong Anglican Church and Gerringong Uniting Church welcomed the women into their homes.

The weekend had a hectic schedule of activities, including learning about our local first people at Seven Mile Beach and sharing stories and food at a cultural night.