The Rural Health Innovation Fund (RHIF) is excited to remind everyone that applications for Round 3 RHIF Grants remain open until Monday 28 April 2025!
RHIF evolving to strengthen support for regional SA
We remain committed to supporting innovation across health and wellbeing in South Australia, striving to assist not-for-profits and charitable community groups to become creative in their approach to initiating positive health and wellbeing outcomes.
We are celebrating the success of seven Grant Round 2 Recipients and sharing their stories far and wide, including through our social media pages. RHIF, the foundational arm of Country SA PHN has created a unique opportunity that aims to touch and improve as many lives and hearts as possible as it continues to evolve, not only as a fund but also as a bright beacon for those who may not usually be eligible for more strict funding criteria.
It is an opportunity to connect communities through highly innovative activities that are solution based; yet creatively helping to pilot and define new inroads toward a healthier, happier future.
Connecting country South Australians through creativity
Since December 2022, we have supported and shared in the journeys of numerous RHIF-funded initiatives that continue to have a positive impact on health and wellbeing. From pioneering mental health workshops, to clinically orientated services and physical activity, the main theme among funded initiatives is connectivity. RHIF looks to holistically support the most integrative and collaborative initiatives that are bold by design and firm of commitment.
RHIF Round 2 recipient iREACH Rural Health soft launches the ‘Second Beginnings’ initiative
Thursday 6 March marked the soft launch of iREACH Rural Health’s ‘Second Beginnings’ Initiative, which is located in Murray Bridge and surrounds. The Second Beginnings initiative is empowering youth within the region, or those otherwise challenged, to feel re-empowered, and learn new skills in cooking, nutrition, and mobile customer service.
The event was refreshing, inspiring, and certainly connective, with many community members gathering to also celebrate International Women’s Day, and sharing traditional stories of Connection to Country, and the healing journeys through determination, courage, and collaboration.
Friday 21 March was a fantastic day spent with the Pinnaroo Project’s Mallee Arts and Wellness Program which is indeed evidencing the power of connection toward improved health and wellbeing through their amazing arts workshops. The impact already has been felt across the Mallee region in SA including a special visit from the Governor of SA, the Honourable Frances Adamson AC. A day sharing stories of participants who may have felt isolated and disconnected for many reasons, the arts workshops are providing a space of connection and creativity through the artwork of such a creative community. Breaking through some of the traditional barriers, the language of art proves to be a universal, cohesive platform from which many are creating new colourful life ‘canvases’, redesigning pathways toward a more creative, healthier and happier life.
Sharing this with the Grant Round 2 RHIF Recipients, The Mallee Arts and Wellness Program by The Pinnaroo Project’s Co-Chairs Julie Wallis, and Deb Colwill was a delightful experience! To witness firsthand the passion and sheer determination that is making such a difference beyond Pinnaroo into the Mallee region of SA, this exciting program, also supported by well-known Australian textile designer Morrison Polkinghorne, demonstrates that art is indeed engaging such a broad and diverse scope of country South Australians, including children and toward improved health and wellbeing. As a fast-growing, now mobile arts hub, it is a supportive and welcoming space, drawing the community together to share, connect and contribute as they grow together and touch more lives and hearts.
Lisa Courtney (R) from iREACH Rural Health and Susan Brown, Country SA PHN RHIF Coordinator, attending the soft launch of the Second Beginnings program.
Country SA PHN RHIF Coordinator Susan Brown (second from left) visits RHIF recipient The Pinnaroo Project team Deb (far left), Julie (second from right), and Morrison (far right). The Pinnaroo Project received a Round 2 RHIF grant for their Mallee Arts and Wellness Program.
Other exciting journeys unfolding from our Round 2 grant recipients
Crystal Brook Kindergarten Fostering intergenerational connections, bringing together young children and their elders to celebrate cultural heritage and shared life experiences.
Sanctuary on Eyre Inc. A serene haven where people can be nurtured through the therapeutic presence of animals, providing invaluable emotional support and companionship.
Southern Yorke Peninsula Hub Igniting community spirit through the SYP Sounds Initiative, where music and the arts bring people together, fostering joy and camaraderie.
Willaston Football Club Championing mental health, building resilience, and preparing individuals for success through dedicated job readiness programs.
Women Together Learning Strengthening the resilience of rural women, offering support and resources during times of crisis and challenge.
Who can apply?
Must be a recognised charitable NFP.
Hold a valid Australian Business Number (ABN) or Australian Company Number (ACN).
Maintain comprehensive insurance coverage.
Collaborative approach and support
We remain committed to a strong collaborative approach with our South Australian regional communities. We believe in the power of partnership and providing additional support and guidance to ensure applicants feel supported. From developing compelling proposals to implementing successful initiatives, we are here to help every step of the way and continue to share in the journeys of such committed organisations, and community groups.
Together, we are harnessing the power of collaboration to ignite meaningful change and enhance health and wellbeing outcomes in our vibrant rural communities!
