VicHealth's support for Gannawarra's children and young people

Published on 17 July 2026

Gannawarra Shire Council has been announced as one of 17 rural and regional councils selected to partner with VicHealth over the next two years to improve outcomes for children and young people.

The Gannawarra Stronger Together project is part of VicHealth’s new Partners in Place initiative, which will support Council and local agencies to work together to create healthier more connected communities where children and young people can thrive.

The project will focus on increasing accessible opportunities for children and young people to participate in community life by activating public spaces through low-cost, community-based programs, including art, music, theatre and physical activity.

Council Chief Executive Officer, Geoff Rollinson, welcomed the funding and partnership opportunity.

“Council thanks VicHealth for its support of the Gannawarra Stronger Together Project, which will create meaningful opportunities for children and young people to help activate local neighbourhoods while strengthening social connections, mental wellbeing, and a sense of belonging,” he said.

The VicHealth Partners in Place initiative aims to improve everyday conditions that support health and wellbeing, making it easier for people to be healthy, active and connected. The initiative combines long-term investment, evidence and practical support to help communities deliver lasting improvements in health and wellbeing.

VicHealth Chief Executive Officer, Professor Anna Peeters, said “good health starts long before people need medical care”.

"Hospitals and clinics play a vital role in keeping Victorians healthy, but the biggest opportunities to improve health are found in the places where people live, learn, work and connect with others. That's why lasting change starts with communities themselves,” she said.

"Communities know what will make the biggest difference because they live it every day. By backing local leadership, sharing what works and building strong partnerships, we can help more communities across Victoria create healthier places where everyone can enjoy better health and wellbeing."

To learn more about VicHealth’s Partners in Place initiative, please visit www.vichealth.vic.gov.au/partners-in-place