Strategic Engagement - July 2026

Bridget Kennelly, our Manager Community Collaborations reports on the following activity being undertaken with the CSAPHN Community Advisory Committees.

On the 26 May, Bridget joined the Limestone Coast Community Services Roundtable (LCCSRT) online, which had its regular high attendance, both online and in-person. Several guest speakers presented to the group, including representatives from Country SA PHN commissioned service provider, Mission Australia, on the Universal Aftercare program in the Limestone Coast. Adelaide University and TAFE presented on workforce gaps and opportunities for local learning, including opportunities for research partnerships within the region. The final guest presentation was by Australian Early Development Census (AECD) who gave an overview of AEDC, including results for local council areas, levels of child development vulnerability across the region and current responses. The presentation also highlighted how Roundtable members' roles and work can contribute to reducing vulnerability for children across the region. Attendees gave service updates, which leads to increased collaboration in the community.

On the 15 June, Bridget attended the Health Translation SA Consumer and Community Involvement in Research Action Group online, where discussion surrounded communication paths, best practice in research, and the importance of having lived experience embedded across the whole research life cycle.

Bridget was very happy to combine a trip to Roxby Downs on 16 June with a colleague from the Primary Care and Digital Support Team, Venessa Blinman, to attend the Roxby Downs Health Forum in-person. Bridget joined Venessa in practice visits to Roxby Downs Family Practice - Woomera Clinic, Roxby Downs Doctors Surgery, Roxby Downs Health Service and Andamooka RFDS Health Clinic. Roxby Downs Health Service gave us a tour on Wednesday morning of their wonderful new Palliative Care space. At the Health Forum meeting, Leanne Ross from WCHN gave a presentation on the Regional Trial of Early Evidence and Forensic Toxicology Kit Trial, of which Pt Augusta, Roxby and Whyalla are participants.

Two Health Promotion Grant recipients have been busy with their activities. District Council of Yankalilla running ‘Nourish to Flourish’, a series of 4 community workshops focussing on reducing burnout and fatigue, improving energy and focus, and supporting mental wellbeing through practical nutrition, sleep, stress and nervous system regulation strategies. Side X Side Mateship for Life held a very successful “Tee it up and Talk II” Ambrose Golf Day and Celebration of Mateship event at Smoky Bay on June 12^th, with Marc Ryan being the guest speaker.

For any enquiries around Country SA PHN’s Community Advisory Committees, please reach out to Manager Community Collaborations at [email protected].