Strengthening Connections Across the Arid Lands
From late 2024 through to April 2025, a series of community events were delivered across the Arid Lands region to support social connection, skills development, and community wellbeing. The Arid Lands Agricultural Community Connections Project was delivered in partnership between Landcare NT and Centralian Land Management Association with funding from the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal (FRRR) through the Future Drought Fund.
Over four events–held in Alice Springs, Athelle, Erldunda, and surrounding areas–participants engaged in a wide variety of hands-on workshops and social activities tailored to rural and remote communities. Activities ranged from floral arranging, leathercraft and sausage making to yoga, clay target shooting, and evening performances celebrating rural women.
The events attracted more than 120 participants, many of whom travelled long distances to attend. In addition to individual skill-building and fun, the project fostered new social connections and collaboration between residents, local businesses, and support services.
Participants described the events as welcoming, uplifting, and valuable–with feedback consistently highlighting the benefits of relaxed, community-led gatherings that bring people together across distance and difference.
“It was good to meet new people, I have already contacted someone new about an idea we discussed while we talked over our craft. I think it was a great initiative and I’m very grateful.”
– Participant
Landcare NT gives thanks to Shannan Hayes-White and Danyelle Haigh who created these fabulous events that responded to their local community needs.
The success of these events reinforces the importance of continued investment in place-based activities that support wellbeing, inclusion, and foster resilience in remote and agricultural communities.
“In the heart of rural life, coming together isn’t just a break from the land, it’s a lifeline. Sharing stories, laughter, and coming together strengthens the whole community and reminds us we’re not alone in the struggle. Events like this are vital for that!”
– Shannan Hayes
