Drumming into the Light: Winter Solstice Gathering at Imperial Lakes
This uplifting and inclusive Winter Solstice gathering brought together over 45 people from across Broken Hill and Silverton to connect through rhythm, reflection, and nature. Hosted by Landcare Broken Hill at Imperial Lakes, the event featured group drumming, dance, and ceremonial elements that celebrated the turning point of the seasons while supporting mental wellbeing, community connection, and cultural expression. This was part of a broader Landcare initiative exploring the role of nature-based and creative practices in enhancing rural community resilience.This uplifting and inclusive Winter Solstice gathering brought together over 45 people from across Broken Hill and Silverton to connect through rhythm, reflection, and nature. Hosted by Landcare Broken Hill at Imperial Lakes, the event featured group drumming, dance, and ceremonial elements that celebrated the turning point of the seasons while supporting mental wellbeing, community connection, and cultural expression. This was part of a broader Landcare initiative exploring the role of nature-based and creative practices in enhancing rural community resilience.
Capacity building - LP045
The issue
In remote areas like Broken Hill, social isolation, mental health challenges, and a lack of shared public celebration opportunities can significantly affect community wellbeing. Seasonal transitions such as winter can further exacerbate disconnection. Despite growing evidence that communal rhythm-based practices like drumming can boost mental health and belonging, such experiences are rarely accessible in outback NSW.
The solution
Landcare Broken Hill partnered with Down to Earth Drumming and RFDS to host an open-air Winter Solstice celebration that was free, welcoming, and sensory-rich. Set against the natural backdrop of Imperial Lakes, the event included group drumming, guided movement, and a co-created solstice altar for reflection and sharing. The community was encouraged to connect through rhythm, story, and stillness, marking the solstice together as a moment of pause and renewal.
The impact
- Attendance: Over 30 people from diverse ages, backgrounds, and communities—including attendees from Silverton and outlying Broken Hill
- Mental Health Support: Feedback from Ali (RFDS) confirmed the event’s success in supporting wellbeing; RFDS has expressed strong interest in future collaborations
- Social Connection: The event created new friendships, rekindled connections, and gave people a safe and joyful space to gather
- Creative Highlights: The co-built solstice altar became a powerful focal point, described by attendees as “beautiful” and “healing”; lantern-making and cacao sharing encouraged slower moments of connection
- Cultural Expression: The use of drumming, movement, and nature ritual created space for cultural inclusivity, emotional expression, and celebration
Learnings
What Worked Well:
- Drumming and rhythm provided an accessible, joyful way to engage people of all ages
- The altar and ceremonial elements added a reflective and meaningful layer to the event
- The natural setting created a peaceful, grounding space for connection and celebration
- Partnering with RFDS and local artists broadened both reach and impact
- Strong turnout, especially from remote communities, shows a hunger for inclusive, creative community events
Areas for Improvement:
- Explore more seating and weather protection options for seasonal events
- Promote earlier to allow more people from outlying areas to attend
- Provide post-event resources or follow-up sessions for continued connection
Key facts
- • Date: 21 June 2025
- • Location: Imperial Lakes Nature Park, Broken Hill
- • Focus Areas: Mental health, rhythm and movement, community celebration, nature connection
- • Participants: 30+
- • Collaborators: RFDS, Down to Earth Drumming
- • Creative Element: Group drumming, movement, altar-building, lantern crafts, and cacao sharing
- • Community Reach: Attendees from Broken Hill, Silverton, and surrounding communities
- • Outcome: Strong participant feedback, future partnership interest, and increased engagement in Landcare’s social wellbeing initiatives