The world is better when we get together

In early 2025 Harrow and District was dry, paddocks were bare and the community were facing another season in one of their worst droughts in decades. Despite these challenges a dozen locals signed up for a new We’re Better Together Partnership aimed at bringing people together to build resilience and connection. Funded as part of the Regional Drought Resilience Planning Program and coordinated by Wimmera Southern Mallee Development, the project showed the power of supported collaboration.

Partnership members hit the ground running, asking the community what activities people wanted and needed to build resilience and strengthen connections. They then used that feedback to plan and deliver 6 events over a busy two-month period. These included a BBQ smoker masterclass, laughter yoga, community singing, a high tea, a children’s story book creation workshop and community sessions to raise awareness about mental health and supporting others.

The results were strong, with 200 attendees across the 6 events in a district population of around 650. Around one third of participants filled in feedback forms, giving an average satisfaction rating of 4.7 out of 5.

“The event was well organised and provided a wonderful opportunity for the community to connect and start the conversation. Well done to all,” one Unbreakable Farmer BBQ participant said.

Participants also said the events encouraged them to proactively check in with family and friends, attend more events and stay connected with other community members. Partnership members made new friends, local children and adults featured in a published book, and community members received free hay after meeting Marg from Rural Aid at one event.

Partnership members also spoke about the value of being able to do something for others.

“I feel (WBT) supported the community through an extremely difficult and demoralising time of relentless drought, directly impacting farming families, with the emotional and financial effects felt throughout the community. It brought light, laughter and gathered people around food.”