Welcome to the Rural Health Innovation Fund
Established in December 2022
The Rural Health Innovation Fund (RHIF) is a new and exciting opportunity to drive health care improvements for country South Australians.
We are passionate about supporting rural communities by strengthening and encouraging innovative programs that will have a lasting impact.
The RHIF will create positive change through supporting innovative community-based programs that address the diverse health and wellbeing needs in the rural community. We strive to positively impact the lives of country South Australians now and into the future.
The RHIF has been made possible by Country SA PHN.
2024-25 Round Two RHIF Grant Recipients Announced
The Rural Health Innovation Fund (RHIF) is proud to announce the successful recipients of the 2024-25 Round 2 grants. These projects, characterised by their diversity and innovation, aim to improve health and wellbeing outcomes for regional South Australians.
As we near the end of 2024, we are excited to see the RHIF community expand. The initiatives supported through both grant rounds have made a significant positive impact in country South Australia. The wide range of applications for Round 2 in 2024 highlights the ongoing commitment to addressing the unique needs of our communities.
Round 2 has brought another wonderful opportunity to support communities in achieving their goals and enhancing the lives of country South Australians.
Round 2 Grant Recipients 2024-25
- A Place of Intergenerational Connection by Crystal Brook Kindergarten (sponsored by Uniting Country SA) is a vibrant outdoor space in Crystal Brook, featuring gardens, safe pathways, and unique seating with handmade mosaics from an awe-inspiring, connective 2022 art project. Located near Crystal Brook Hospital and Roseview Aged Care, this area fosters connections between residents, patients, and families, while celebrating the Nukunu people's cultural heritage. RHIF is excited to introduce this space, continuing over 120 years of support and fostering intergenerational bonds for rural South Australians.
- The Mallee Arts and Wellness Program by The Pinnaroo Project Association Inc. (TPPAinc). Founded in 2021, TPPAinc enhances the health and wellbeing of the Pinnaroo community through arts and cultural programs. The Mallee Arts and Wellness Program initiative will offer dynamic art and connection activities for community members, including those from CALD backgrounds, the LGBTQ+ community, the elderly, youth, and individuals facing isolation. Serving the towns of Parrakie, Geranium, Lameroo, Parilla, and Pinnaroo, this program aims to foster skill development, strengthen social bonds, and reduce isolation.
- Empowering Mental Health Through Animals Initiative by Sanctuary on Eyre Inc. (SOE). Founded eight years ago, SOE provide a haven for animals in need and foster connections with people facing mental health challenges. Thanks to their dedicated volunteers, and their bold innovative commitment, SOE has become a strong charitable organisation with a strong mission. With four acres near Tumby Bay, housing rescued birds, animals, and two therapy dogs, their motto is, "For the love and well-being of animals and people." The Empowering Mental Health Through Animals Initiative connects animals with individuals facing mental health challenges. Skilled staff are facilitating therapeutic visits to schools and aged care facilities, with a focus on Port Lincoln High School, Tumby Bay Area School, and Uringa Aged Care Service.
- Regenerate Rural Women by Women Together Learning (WoTL). WoTL empowers women in agribusiness across Australia through tailored programs and events, creating safe spaces for learning and support. Expanding to the Riverland in 2024 to uplift and empower local women, the Regenerate Rural Women (RRW) program helps women prioritise their health and well-being with tools for resilience, stress management, and personal growth. Join them in their transformative workshops, coaching sessions, and networking opportunities.
- Second Beginnings initiative by iReach Rural Health. Formerly the Murray Mallee General Practice Network, iReach Rural Health have been providing friendly healthcare in the Murray Mallee region since 1995. Their services include psychological therapy, drug and alcohol treatment, and chronic pain management. With headspace centres in Murray Bridge, Mount Barker, and a satellite site in Victor Harbor, they cater to all ages. Their passionate team, many of whom live in the community, foster meaningful connections. The RHIF-funded Second Beginnings initiative will support individuals with chronic health conditions, mental health, and addiction challenges. With fortnightly community cooking sessions and shared meals that promote connection and wellbeing, their new mobile coffee and food van will offer skill-building opportunities for meaningful employment.
- SYP Sounds by The Southern York Peninsula (SYP) Community Hub Inc. The SYP Community Hub Inc is an innovative not-for-profit responding to community needs and community-led ideas. We're excited to support SYP Sounds, a musical project connecting local musicians with the youth of Yorke Peninsula. Participants will share their stories through song, fostering creativity and community connection. SYP Sounds bring healing and expression through music, aimed at helping to improve health and wellbeing through a magical and transformative journey!
- Grant recipient Willaston Football Club has been funded for three initiatives: a Job Ready Program, Real-Life Resilience Program, and empowering the community through engaging The Sammy D Foundation to deliver courses. The Willaston Football Club consists of 350 men’s and women’s players, 350 members, and 1,500 supporters. Their wellbeing programs include the Willaston Netball and Cricket Clubs, reaching approximately 1,455 players, members, supporters, and the broader community. In the club’s Job Ready Program, young people aged 12 to 14 can prepare for their first job with hands-on experience in the canteen and scoreboard management. Open to youth in Gawler and surrounding suburbs, this program will empower the community. Willaston FC will also present the Real-Life Resilience Program, holding community sessions focused on supporting mental health and providing tools to build resilience from a young age. Willaston FC will engage The Sammy D Foundation to deliver impactful courses on violence prevention and positive role modelling. These courses will be open for all ages.
Want to know more?
Contact Rural Health Innovation Fund
We look forward to building relationships and growing the Rural Health Innovation Fund.
We welcome your input and would love to hear from you. Contact the RHIF Coordinator at: [email protected]
Rural Health Innovation Fund has a Facebook Group. We encourage you to join the group so that you can stay updated, click here.
Acknowledgement
Rural Health Innovation Fund would like to acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the lands across Australia and pay respects to the Elders past present and future. We recognise and respect the unique cultural and spiritual relationships to the land, waters and seas, which continue to be important to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people living today.
Published on: February 10, 2023
Last updated on: January 22, 2025