Let's Talk - Red Cross Christmas Trees in Glen Innes!
Let's Talk - Red Cross Christmas Trees in Glen Innes!
Supporting drought, bushfire & COVID affected rural community groups within the Glen Innes district to celebrate Christmas events
Capacity to Deliver -
LP008-006
The issue
The effects of the 2019-2020 drought & bushfire events continued to be felt across the Glen Innes region, physically, emotionally & financially. To add further insult to injury, the stresses of COVID-19, particularly the isolation experienced by all during this time, meant that many community groups, villages & localities around Glen Innes felt too overwhelmed to organise a Christmas gathering - usually an annual event. Traditionally, these events provide opportunity for connection, communication and social inclusion, as well as excitement and celebration – elements that are extremely important to cultivate in rural communities, particularly during times of high pressure.
The solution
After the success of the 2019 Christmas events that Red Cross Let's Talk funding assisted, GLENRAC again supplied financial support to community groups around the region to assist with the running of Christmas events. This support assisted by reducing the financial burden on small communities to fund the costs of the event, as well as injecting economic stimulus back into the Glen Innes community as all money was spent at local businesses in town.
GLENRAC was able to provide financial assistance to 13 Christmas events during December 2020 across the Glen Innes District, including Ben Lomond Landcare Group, Bolivia Progress Association, Deepwater School of Arts, Deepwater Progress Association, Deepwater Tennis Club, Dundee, Emmaville, Glen Elgin, Kings Plains, Pinkett, Rummerys Hill Landcare Group, Torrington & the Wellingrove Progress Association.
The impact
Approximately 895 attendees participated in one of the 13 Christmas events supported by GLENRAC, a number considered by organisers to be overwhelmingly positive given the challenges of COVID-19 restrictions. Unfortunately, the social distancing laws meant that some communities felt unable to take the risk of running any event at all. Where possible, GLENRAC were able to assist groups with creating a COVID safe plan and also in the creation of the event flyers.
By relieving the financial burden of some of the elements of the event, community groups were able to put their energy into planning a day that fostered connection and communication within their community group, combatting isolation at a time of the year when togetherness is needed most.
Key facts
- Providing opportunities for social inclusion and connection in rural communities is essential for the wellbeing of the region, particularly in the aftermath of drought, bushfire & COVID-19.
- GLENRAC provided financial support to 13 Christmas events across the Glen Innes region, reaching approximately 895 attendees.