Soft musical harmonies greeted visitors at Ballina’s Community Connections Expo on Saturday — a gentle reminder of the extraordinary range if work done quietly by volunteers across the Shire.

More than 250 groups filled the Ballina Community Centre for council’s second expo, following Lennox Head earlier this year.

From emergency services to environment and heritage groups, sporting clubs to animal rescue, most had one message in common: we could use more hands.

Comfort in song

The gentle and soothing sounds at the entrance were coming from the Threshold Choir – one of our shire’s newest community groups, offering comfort through song to those in need.

Founded in the United States in 2000 and now spread worldwide, Threshold Choirs offer something unusual: small groups of singers providing gentle, three-part harmonies at the bedsides of people who are dying, unwell, or lonely.

Ballina’s chapter started just before COVID, making it one of only a handful in Australia. Member Jane Elliott said the group is completely voluntary and free of charge.

“We’ll sing in hospitals, aged care facilities, or private homes –  anywhere someone needs comfort,” she explained. 

“The songs are written specifically for the choir movement, so they’re unfamiliar melodies, soft and melodic, that don’t distract but soothe. It’s about bringing peace at a time of stress or transition.”

She said the demand is high but awareness is low.

“Talking about end-of-life can be confronting. But when people hear us sing, you can see the comfort it brings,” Ms Elliott said.

 The group meets weekly at St Mary’s in Ballina and is keen for new members.

 “You don’t have to sing at a bedside straight away  – just come along and sing with us.

“Even if you never feel ready to sing to someone who’s dying, the joy of singing together is reason enough to join.”

History preserved, animals rescued

Nearby, Ballina Historical Society treasurer Ann Mulder said the museum was a vital resource for residents tracing family or local history.

“We’ve got documents, maps and artefacts going back to Ballina’s founding in 1842,” she said.

“But like so many groups, we need more volunteers. Even helping with a Bunnings barbecue or an open day makes a difference.”

Northern Rivers Animal Services (NRAS) had crowds gathering around photos of dogs needing homes –  including “Biggie,” a French bulldog needing surgery for a severe breathing condition.

Spokesperson Jo Parker said the shelter is often at capacity.

“We rely on volunteers and foster carers –  people to cuddle, walk, clean, or help in our op-shops.

Foster homes are especially important because they let animals decompress and feel love before adoption,” Ms Parker said.

Lifesaving work and tea with purpose

For the Ballina SES, recruiting remains vital.  Local commander Susan Morrison said the unit had 95 members but always needed more.

“We’re there on people’s worst days –  whether it’s a leaking roof or a flood rescue,” she said.

“The rewards are huge, and the skills last a lifetime.”

The Ballina branch of the Country Women’s Association is also adapting to changing times.

Treasurer Barb Driscoll said the group now has nearly 40 members.

“We’ve given out $50,000 in flood relief, run grants for students, and spent time with older residents at retirement villages,” she said. 

“We’d love more younger members to join-  there’s a role for everyone.”

Council backs a third expo

Councillors Damian Loone and Erin Karsten said the event provided a crucial “one-stop shop” for new and long-time residents alike.

“Volunteers are the lifeblood of the Shire,” Cr Loone said.

 “Some groups are down to just a few stalwarts. Today’s about helping them find new blood.”

 Cr Karsten said the day proved effective in connecting people.

 “People come in not knowing what’s out there, and walk away with options they never imagined. It’s about making those connections.”

After strong turnouts in Lennox Head and Ballina, councillors confirmed the series will continue, with an Alstonville–Wollongbar expo possible for early 2026.