Events celebrating community connectedness and social inclusion have been held across the region, as part of the Queensland Government’s Community Drought Support funding package.
The Central Highlands Regional Council secured funding from the Department of Communities, Child Safety and Disability Services for the second year in a row, distributing the grant between the region’s 13 communities.
Through the Community Reference Groups, each community identified an event for their area.
The events follow on from November’s Social Inclusion Week, with community organisations, service providers and council providing information packs and setting up display stalls.
‘From Christmas parties to barbecues, these events are all about building resilience within our communities and continuing to push the message about social inclusion,’ Mayor Cr Kerry Hayes said.
‘Strengthening our communities strengthens our ability to withstand hardships, whether they be physical, financial or emotional. By participating in social inclusiveness and ensuring this is a priority in our communities we are able to help reduce mental health issues.
‘So far, the events held have all been strongly supported through high attendance and positive recognition on social media. A big thank you to everyone who has been involved– your hard work and enthusiasm go a long way to make this region the great place it is.’
With a number of events still coming up, the mayor encouraged everyone to get along, get involved and show their support.
Community events
Past
- Arcadia Valley: Community BBQ & First Aid Course
- Blackwater: Community Catch Up
- Bluff: Christmas Party
- Capella: Welcome to Summer
- Dingo: Christmas Party
- Emerald: Self Care Day
- Rolleston: Community Family Fund Day
- Springsure: Community BBQ
Upcoming
- Bauhinia: Christmas Party; 9 December 2016
- Comet: Christmas Party; 10 December 2016
- Duaringa: Christmas Fair; 10 December 2016
- Gemfields: Who We Are Community BBQ; Postponed due to wet weather
- Tieri: Carols by Candlelight; 8 December 2016