To be held on Thursday, June 28, the annual event is a one-stop shop to find out more about the community services that are available in the Griffith region and, with so many providers in one spot, most bases will be covered.

The Community Services Expo is organised by Griffith Community Centre co-ordinator Barbara Penninga, who said it was not just service providers who gained from taking part.

Ms Penninga said there were many benefits for the general community.

“It is a great opportunity to have a chat with someone a bit longer,” Ms Penninga said. “You just can’t get all these people together at any one time.

“People need to keep in mind they might need (the information) later. You never know.

“It is good for the community. A lot of services have changed names. It can be a maze for people to ask ‘what do you do?’. It’s tricky.

“Here, everyone is on par and ready. It is also good to put a face to a service.”

Griffith Central has been a key supporter providing a perfect indoor venue that is relaxed and public.

All service providers are allocated one table and two chairs, and bring their own handouts and giveaways for those seeking information, as well as all manner of promotional banners and paraphernalia.

WIth at least 39 service providers locked, most topics will be covered, including disability services, financial services and counselling, community health, drug and alcohol services, and mental health.

“For the services, it is important to have an opportunity to talk to the community members who they might not always see,” Ms Penninga said.

“They might get referrals, but not community members just coming along with honest questions.”

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Interest from service providers is up on last year.

“We could have had another four or five, but I didn’t realise how much space we had taken up,” Ms Penninga said.

“When we started doing it four years ago the tables were spread out through the whole centre. Now we have it in the big space in front of IGA so we are near each other and can talk together if it is quiet.

“It’s a really simple concept. There is no pressure, it is informal. It is easy to come along and be happy with other people.

“Most importantly for me, as co-ordinator, is the community can see the importance of community services in town. It is a good opportunity to talk a bit longer.”

The 2018 Community Services Expo will be held at the Griffith Central Shopping Centre in front of IGA supermarket on Thursday, June 28 from 10am to 2pm.