Community Connect Expo: What's Your Next Big Thing?

When Vivienne Benson-Hodge arrived at Community Expo, she already had something of an idea. What she didn’t yet know was exactly what that something would look like. Then, at Expo, she met Romny Vandoros. “That was like pennies from heaven,” she said. “That was the beginning of our venture.” Read the full story of DCaf Connections

Community Expo invites Shoalhaven to Connect With More.
More to try.
More to join.
More to love about living here.

What if your next favourite hobby, volunteer role, sporting club or lifelong friendship was waiting just around the corner?

On Thursday 10 September, Community Connect South Shoalhaven will bring together more than 100 local community groups, clubs, charities and organisations for the fifth annual Community Expo at the Dunn Lewis Centre, inviting residents to discover just how much is happening across our area.

Community Expo has become one of the Shoalhaven region's largest celebrations of community. With over 1,000 attendees expected again, Expo is a showcase for the extraordinary work of local volunteers and not-for-profit organisations.

This year's theme, Connect with More, celebrates the incredible depth and diversity of community life throughout the region.

From arts and culture to sport, environmental groups, emergency services, health and wellbeing, education, volunteering, youth opportunities and community services, the Expo offers a rare chance to explore hundreds of ways to get involved, learn something new or simply meet the people helping make the South Shoalhaven such a vibrant place to live.

Matt Dell, Chair of Community Connect South Shoalhaven, said many people are surprised by just how much exists within their own community.

"People often tell us they had no idea so many groups and opportunities existed right here on their doorstep," Mr Dell said.

"Our community runs on volunteers. These passionate people create opportunities to connect, contribute, learn, create and support one another. Community Expo celebrates our volunteers and groups and gives more people a chance to get involved.

"Whether you're new to the area, raising a family, recently retired, looking to volunteer, searching for activities for your children or simply curious about what's out there, there's something for everyone."

For Janelle, Expo quickly became a way to discover just how much support already existed locally. "We didn’t even know what it was – what is this Community Expo?” Janelle recalled. “The exposure for us that day was fantastic.” *Read the ROOM story.*

The event is designed not only to help residents discover opportunities, but also to strengthen connections between organisations themselves, encouraging collaboration and shared solutions to local challenges.

Visitors can expect interactive displays, live performances, demonstrations, children's activities and plenty of opportunities to chat with local organisations about how to get involved.

The event is free to attend, including free food and snacks. The event is suitable for all ages and open to everyone. The venue is fully accessible, so prams, walkers and wheelchairs are welcome.

Community Expo 2026
Thursday 10 September 2026
Dunn Lewis Centre, Ulladulla
9.45am – 2.00pm

For more information visit more.org.au

Learn more

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