Rural Health Innovation Fund

Gather My Crew is an award-winning Australian charity using technology to transform how communities care for one another.

Through this initiative, Gather My Crew will deliver a targeted pilot across the Yorke and Northern Local Health Network (YNLHN) region to close a critical gap in rural health systems: the lack of structured, sustainable home support for people living with illness, ageing, injury, or disability.

In areas where health services are stretched, workforce shortages are escalating, and transport barriers limit access, informal carers—family, friends, neighbours—become essential. Yet without coordination, this help is often sporadic and overwhelming.

Gather My Crew’s free digital platform changes that. It enables individuals to create a “support crew” from their own network, turning offers of “let me know what I can do” into practical help—transport to treatment, meals, cleaning, respite care—delivered in a coordinated, consistent way. Evidence shows this model can increase home support by up to 300%, easing pressure on formal services and improving wellbeing for patients and carers alike. Get in touch with the crew now:  www.gathermycrew.org.au

Women On The Land Learning Together (WoTL Ltd) is dedicated to helping rural women navigate change, work, and crisis including being impacted by the severe ongoing drought! This initiative offers practical tools, peer learning, and leadership development to build resilience and confidence during times of uncertainty. WoTL’s work is vital in fostering strong, connected communities where women can thrive despite the unique challenges they face. WoTL are specifically aiming to support women in Tailem-Bend, Karoonda, Murray Bridge and Lameroo, so get in touch to learn more: https://wotl.com.au

3rd Place is a youth-led initiative designed to combat loneliness and disconnection among our youth in country South Australia. By creating safe, unstructured spaces for creativity and connection, this initiative empowers young people to lead and shape their own communities. With three clubs launching in Loxton, Waikerie, and Renmark, plus an Online Creative Club, 3rd Place offers opportunities for expression, mentorship, and belonging. Get in touch: https://ryt.org.au

Whyalla Men’s Shed is introducing basic woodwork classes for older adults as a unique approach to promoting health and wellbeing. These sessions stimulate cognitive function, improve fine motor skills, and provide gentle physical activity, supporting management of age-related conditions like arthritis and reduced mobility. Beyond physical health, the initiative fosters an opportunity to foster strong social connection and with purpose. Find out more: http://www.whyallamensshed.org.au

WCYCS Group Ltd is leading the Eyre Peninsula Grief and Loss Initiative, creating a structured, inclusive, and culturally safe grief support program for country South Australians. This initiative combines peer support with professional guidance to help individuals navigate loss and rebuild meaningful connections. By addressing social isolation and promoting emotional wellbeing, WCYCS is strengthening the fabric of rural communities during life’s most challenging times. Find out more: www.wcycs.com.au

These initiatives represent the heart of RHIF’s mission: empowering communities to lead innovative solutions for better health and wellbeing. As we evolve, we will be opening Round 4 earlier in 2026 so stay tuned and visit our Facebook page to remain up to date! Join our growing RHIF community now through our Facebook Page  https://www.facebook.com/share/p/19dzz3N5ut/!

(sponsored by Uniting Country SA) 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.