Hesse Rural Health

11/09/2026

Yesterday we came together to check in for RUOK? Day. Sometimes a simple “Are you OK?” can be the start of an important conversation.

If someone tells you they’re not doing well, you don’t need to have all the answers. Take the time to listen, ask what’s been going on, and let them know they’re not alone. A conversation could change a life. Find tips on how to ask, listen and support someone at: A conversation could change a life | R U OK?

You can also encourage them to connect with someone who can provide support. Did you know that Hesse Rural Health has a Counsellor available to talk to?
For more information, email: [email protected]

or if you or someone you know needs extra support, reach out to:

📞 Lifeline: 13 11 14 (Available 24/7)
📞 Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636 (Available 24/7)

10/09/2026

RUOK? Day is a reminder that checking in can make a difference
If you’ve noticed a change in someone and you’re thinking about checking in, ask RUOK? - whether that’s today, tomorrow, or any day.
A simple question can be the start of an important conversation, or a reminder that you are there for them when they need.

08/09/2026

Today, Rokewood locals picked up a paintbrush and helped transform a tree at the Rokewood Community Centre into a symbol of hope and connection.

After the painting, the community was invited to stay for a chat, lunch and a cuppa -creating a wonderful opportunity to connect. We were also joined by students from Rokewood Primary School, who took part in some meaningful activities focused on wellbeing, self-care and supporting others. Students created a Wellbeing Tree, filling blue paper leaves with things that help them feel calm and happy, and a paper Chain of Connection, sharing ways we can help, support and look out for one another.

A big thank you to everyone who came along and helped make the day so special.
The blue tree will remain at the Community Centre as a conversation starter and an important reminder to check in with ourselves and those around us.

To learn more about the Blue Tree Project: https://bluetreeproject.com.au/

07/09/2026

This Women’s Health Week, we’re saying: Do it anyway!

Small steps for your health still count - even when life feels busy, messy or imperfect.

This Women’s Health Week is about challenging the limitations and recognising that looking after your health doesn't have to be perfect. It’s about the little things that can make a big difference - nourishing your body, moving in ways that work for you, giving yourself permission to rest, taking time to breathe, connecting with others and prioritising your wellbeing.

Looking for more information and resources about women's health? Check out the Jean Hailes website for trusted information, resources and support across a range of women's health topics and life stages: https://www.jeanhailes.org.au/

Whatever doing it anyway looks like for you, do it on your terms and our Community Health team at Hesse Rural Health is here to support you. Contact: 5267 1126 or email [email protected]

06/09/2026

04/09/2026

Introducing the new Banno Food Pantry! 🎉

We are excited to announce that the Banno Food Pantry is officially open, providing a welcoming space for community members to access food, connect and feel supported.

🥕 Open every Thursday 11am–2pm
🍎 YMCA Bannockburn, 132 Milton Street, Bannockburn

There are no eligibility requirements -everyone is welcome!

28/08/2026

💜 Wear It Purple Day 2026 💜

Today, Hesse Rural Health is proud to celebrate Wear It Purple Day and reaffirm our commitment to creating environments where everyone feels safe, respected, valued and included.

Wear It Purple Day is an opportunity to show support for LGBTQIA+ people, start meaningful conversations and reflect on the small actions we can all take to create a stronger sense of belonging in our workplace, services and community.
Whether we’re supporting residents, patients, colleagues, volunteers or community members, kindness, respect and inclusion matter.

Together, we can help create a welcoming community where everyone feels safe to be themselves.

Find out more about Wear It Purple Day: wearitpurple.org

27/08/2026

📚✨ Book Week Fun at Hesse Rural Health ✨📚

What a wonderful morning we had welcoming the students from Winchelsea Primary School for their Book Week Parade!

Our residents absolutely loved seeing the students dressed as their favourite book characters. There were plenty of smiles and laughter as the children proudly showed off their creative costumes.

It was a beautiful intergenerational visit, bringing together our youngest and oldest community members to share a love of stories, books and imagination.

The wonderful and hard-working Hesse Lifestyle Team send a huge thank you to the students and staff at Winchelsea Primary School for making our residents' day so special!

19/08/2026

Up next on our Backyard Series! 🌿
Join the Bannockburn and Teesdale Walkers for a community walk in Inverleigh on Thursday 27th August.

Each Backyard Series event, members of our allied health team will join the walk for an informal chat on a different health and wellbeing topic, sharing practical tips and answering your questions along the way.

Whether you're a regular walker or joining us for the first time, we'd love to see you there. Check out the flyer and photos for this month's location and all the details!

18/08/2026

The Rokewood community is coming together for a special Blue Tree Project painting day - a chance to connect, have a chat and help shine a light on mental health. 💙

Painting the tree blue will create a lasting visual reminder in our community that it’s okay to talk about mental health, to check in with each other and to ask for support when we need it. Blue Trees are designed to spark conversations and help break down the stigma around mental health.

Whether you come along to pick up a paintbrush, have a cuppa and chat, or simply show your support -everyone is welcome.

To learn more about the Blue Tree Project, visit: https://bluetreeproject.com.au/