Council has announced the five recipients of its new community wellbeing initiative: Runt on the Road, funded through Agriculture Victoria's Look Over the Farm Gate Grant Program.
Following a successful showing of the movie Runt for R U OK Day? in September, Council invited small hall committees across the Shire to express their interest in hosting a community-led event focused on connection, storytelling and mental health awareness. The response was enthusiastic, with five committees selected to receive funding.
Farming communities across the Shire continue to face significant climate challenges, from storms, floods and drought. Community connection and access to health resources is vital to support positive physical and mental health outcomes. These events provide an opportunity to bring community together and make the most of our local halls.
Each group with receive $1,200 to host a relaxed and inclusive gathering featuring a screening of the heartwarming Australian film, Runt, a shared meal and access to health and wellbeing resources. These events aim to create welcoming spaces for conversations and connection, especially for farming communities where work pressures and isolation can impact stress levels.
Congratulations to the recipients:
- Toolangi Castella Community House
- Taggerty Hall
- Highlands Community Hall
- Fawcett Hall and Mechanics Institute
- Glenburn Hall
To help committees deliver their events, Council will provide funding to cover key costs including film hire, catering and equipment hire. Committees will also receive customisable promotional materials, printed wellbeing resources and ongoing planning support throughout the process.
Community groups are encouraged to connect with Council's Grants and Sponsorships team to explore opportunities for community connection events.
"Our small communities know the power of coming together and we're proud to support them through these events and continue important conversations about wellbeing," Council's Community Wellbeing Portfolio Councillor Jodi Adams said. "The Runt on the Road initiative is a great way to connect people through food, films and stories, promoting positive mental health."
