Mental health & social inclusion project honoured

Social Group Tatiara won the prestigious Rural Doctors Workforce Agency Rural Community Health and Wellbeing Award, presented by David Militz, General Manager, Rural Doctors Workforce Agency at last week’s 2024 South Australia Community Achievement Awards.

With hundreds of nominations, Social Group Tatiara won the Award from a strong field of community achievers.

Social Group Tatiara, of Bordertown, focuses on social inclusion to improve mental health. In partnership with a local social worker, youth leaders co-developed creative projects such as movie nights, art initiatives, and music events.

Through these initiatives, including a community meal project and employment connections, Social Group has broken down barriers of stigma in their conservative town.

The group’s activities, attended by 15-25 members weekly, have empowered young people to become community leaders, improve their skills, and contribute meaningfully to their community. The initiative has helped youth from disadvantaged backgrounds, including migrants and LGBTQIA+ individuals, find their place and be represented, transforming their social and employment prospects.

The seven category winners were:

• Cassie Day – Carers SA Carer Achievement Award

• Chooks Little Winery Tours – Konica Minolta Customer Service Award

• Dawn Likouresis – Awards Australia Foundation Local Legend Award

• Eliza Durdin – Carers SA Young Carers Award

• Port Adelaide District Baseball Club – SkyCity Adelaide Community Group Award

• Social Group Tatiara – Rural Doctors Workforce Agency Rural Community Health and Wellbeing Award

• Vegan Festival Adelaide – Awards Australia Small Business Award

Winners each received a prize package including a complimentary membership to The Career College valued at $594, and a trophy.

The winners of the prestigious 2024 South Australia Community Achievement Awards were announced at the Awards Gala Presentation Dinner at Stamford Grand Adelaide on Saturday, February 22.

The awards were hosted by Rosanna Mangiarelli, 7NEWS Weekday Newsreader as the MC for the evening.

More than 300 guests gathered from across the State to celebrate South Australia’s high achievers.