Country SA PHN Newsletter June 2025
Barossa Local Health Cluster – The Barossa Big Sing
The Barossa Big Sing, a fun and inclusive singing initiative, took place on Saturday 26 April. The Big Sing is designed to be family friendly, free to participate and focused not only on cultural participation but also health and wellbeing.
The project commenced in March 2025 with local singing leaders and musicians engaged to lead a series of targeted and general singing workshops throughout the Barossa. These were promoted as "no musical skills necessary" opportunities for people to come along and learn a repertoire of songs. The workshops were free and designed for all ages and abilities. They offered opportunities for social connection and a healthy, fun physical activity for participants - aiming to build confidence in singing with a group and becoming familiar with the repertoire.
At the conclusion of the five-week workshop period, the Big Sing was presented at the Tanunda Recreation Reserve on Saturday 26 April. Those who attended the workshops gave a sense of confidence to the broader group. The ongoing development of local singing networks and increasing participation in a health cultural activity provides an important legacy for the project. An experienced Community Singing Leader supported the project to ensure the local singing leaders were fully equipped to lead the project. A wonderful, innovative event!
Mid North Local Health Cluster – Aqua for Life
The Strength for Life Aqua program in Orroroo continues to grow in popularity in its second year, offering the over-50 community an opportunity to exercise in a controlled and supported environment while enjoying the social connections it continues to build among various groups of people.
This program, now run by the Country Health Connect - Yorke and Northern LHN Community Health Services, has become more streamlined in its service delivery. There were 49 enrolments received this year, with 43 actively participating regularly. That is a 26% increase in active participants from the initial 2023/24 season. Four classes were held across two days. Attendance rates at classes were consistently high, with very few ‘no shows’. Participants were prompt at providing notice if they couldn’t make their allocated class.
Local instructors were very popular with the participants. They made the classes both physically worthwhile and an enjoyable experience. Through the Health Promotion Grant, the District Council of Orroroo Carrieton received funding for participants to take part in this program. During the current cost of living crisis, along with the widespread drought, this program offered a positive outlet for connection. Well done to all involved!
Barossa Local Health Cluster – Pain Revolution Community Event
On Saturday 10 May, Karine Meadley, as a Local Pain Educator, and the Barossa Local Pain Collective, in collaboration with community partners, hosted a free, inclusive event focused on raising awareness of chronic pain and promoting holistic approaches to health and wellness called Colour Your Health.
This event was held at the Barossa Bushgardens, and brought together individuals, families, and local organisations for an engaging and educational experience designed to inspire healthier living and empower the community with knowledge about managing pain and enhancing their wellbeing.
Chronic pain is a significant health issue. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW), one in five Australians experiences chronic pain, with prevalence increasing among older adults and those in rural and regional areas such as the Barossa. This ongoing pain not only diminishes quality of life but also imposes substantial economic costs due to healthcare expenditures, reduced workplace productivity, and disability support, impacting the individual and the wider community.
The event featured a Colour Trail/Run and Pain Science Knowledge Trail, to get people moving and provided other interactive educational stations that demystified pain science and showcased practical tools for pain management and other wellness-focused experiences designed to foster health literacy and encourage positive behaviour change. An excellent example of community working together for positive health outcomes and education!
For enquiries about the Country SA PHN’s Health Promotions Grants 2025-2026, please reach out to Manager Community Collaborations at [email protected].
Published on: June 5, 2025
