How the Outback's Inclusive Spirit Welcomes Newcomers

Embracing a new chapter in the heart of Outback Queensland, the Lima family from New Zealand and jewelry artisan Monica Ferreira from South Africa exemplify the vibrant cultural fusion transforming Australia's rural communities.

The Outback's inclusive spirit has welcomed a new family into its fold. Originally from New Zealand, Chance and Sarah Lima, along with their kids, moved to Australia 19 years ago and settled in Aramac, Outback Queensland, around two years ago. In October, they took the big step of becoming Australian citizens, with their citizenship ceremony held at the Barcaldine Regional Council's October meeting.

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, the number of people in Outback Queensland who were born overseas and are living in the Outback is increasing. This growing trend of social blending is enriching Outback Queensland's cultural and skills offering.

In Barcaldine, Monica Ferreira moved with her family from South Africa around 12 months ago. Monica has brought her jewelry-making expertise and business acumen from the South African artisan markets. During Covid, Monica took a proactive approach to lockdowns by connecting hundreds of thousands of artisans and customers through an online platform. While she admits this is not a scale that could be replicated in Outback Queensland, there are still similarities and opportunities that Monica has identified to make the most of the market that exists here.