Brewarrina leads the way in health push

Brewarrina locals turned out in force at the Community Health Festival in March. Staff member Cathie Finlayson welcoming people at the health station. Photo: University of New South Wales Sydney

Story: Kristin Murdockkmurdock@outbackradio.com.au

Brewarrina locals have embraced a new long-term health initiative that researchers hope could become a model for small rural communities across Australia, with nearly 200 residents taking part in community health checks earlier this year.

The TEN4TEN: Healthier Tiny Towns program, run by the University of New South Wales’ Co-design Health Research and Innovation team, is working alongside local organisations and residents to improve long-term health outcomes through community-led programs and regular health checks.

Associate Professor Morwenna Kirwan said Brewarrina was chosen as the first community involved in the project because of the strong relationships already built within the town.

“We’ve had a research partnership in Brewarrina now for more than 12 years,” she said. “We’ve built the trust and the connections in the community, and people in Brewarrina are very passionate about coming together to improve health.” […]

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