$50,000 awarded to support community-led connection and wellbeing initiatives

The Rural Health Research Foundation, in partnership with the Carolyn Vincent Ubuntu Foundation, has awarded funding through the inaugural Ubuntu Foundation Community Innovation Fund, supporting grassroots projects that strengthen social connection and wellbeing across rural, regional and remote communities.

A total of $50,000 was allocated in this first round, with 10 community-led initiatives funded across regional New South Wales and South Queensland.

People living in rural, regional and remote communities often face unique challenges when it comes to connection and access to support. The fund recognises that the most effective responses are locally led, designed by communities themselves and grounded in place.

The fund supports practical, locally driven solutions that reduce isolation and loneliness, while building connection, belonging and wellbeing in communities.

Rural Health Research Foundation CEO Cassandra Wilson said the projects highlight the strength of local leadership and the importance of backing community-led ideas.

“These projects reflect the care, creativity and leadership already present in our communities. By supporting locally driven initiatives, we are helping create spaces where people feel connected, supported and that they belong.”

The full list of funded projects is below.

Funded Projects

Strong Spirit Services Ltd - Port Macquarie (including Wauchope and surrounds).

The Old Ways Strong Ways program will deliver ten culturally grounded activities for Aboriginal Elders, including fishing, bush walks, yarning circles, weaving and creative sessions to strengthen connection, cultural sharing and wellbeing.

ShoreTrack - Nambucca Valley

Young people will co-design and build an outdoor yarning and wellbeing space in Macksville, creating a culturally safe place for mentoring, shared meals and group activities that foster belonging and emotional support.

Northern Rivers Community Foundation - Northern Rivers region (including Kyogle, Iluka, Byron, Ballina and Tweed)

A two-day retreat will bring together women leading community initiatives for peer learning, cultural practice and reflection, strengthening relationships and reducing isolation.

Byron Community Centre Ltd - Byron Bay and surrounding communities

Elder Beats will deliver fortnightly drumming sessions and social gatherings for older adults, creating a welcoming and accessible space for connection through shared participation.

Bongil Bongil Youth Collective - Toormina / the 2452 community

Bongil Bongil Aunties will create a culturally safe space for Aboriginal women to come together, share experiences and support one another, building a sustainable local network of connection.

STARTTS - Coffs Harbour and Armidale

Connected Through Football will bring together young people from refugee backgrounds through training sessions and a cross-cultural tournament, promoting inclusion, teamwork and belonging.

The New School of Arts Neighbourhood House Inc - South Grafton

Fortnightly technology-free gatherings will bring people together through creative and practical activities, strengthening intergenerational connection and local belonging.

Hope Horizons Inc - Toowoomba and the Darling Downs region

The Cancer Wellness & Connection Program will provide weekly group-based activities and peer support, reducing isolation and creating meaningful connection for people impacted by cancer.

Mullumbimby & District Neighbourhood Centre - Byron and Tweed Shires

The Seechange Women’s Support Group will deliver a weekly program for women who have experienced domestic and family violence, creating a safe space to rebuild confidence, connection and support.

Taree Universities Campus - Mid Coast region (including Taree, Wingham, Old Bar, Forster and Gloucester)

Community connection events will support newly arrived professionals and families to build networks, form relationships and feel a sense of belonging in their new communities.

Funded projects will be delivered over the next 12 months, with learnings helping to inform future rounds of the Ubuntu Foundation Community Innovation Fund.