COVID-19 Response

Prompt responses to support the needs of Greater Whitsunday Communities.

GWC was involved in regular taskforce meetings with CSIA and QCOSS, LDMG Human and Social Response Group, and Neighbourhood & Community Centres. The taskforce and response groups were activated very quickly to support the needs of Greater Whitsunday Communities.

GWC maintained regular communications with members and community members throughout the pandemic regarding COVID-19 updates and information, resilience and community capability; as well as encouraging social connection.

GWC, along with Wellbeing Service provider Selectability visited and facilitated 14 Community Forums across the region between June and August 2020.

Funders and supporters:

The Australian Government supported GWC’s response. BHP supported the Facebook communication response. Bushfire funding and Greater Whitsunday Council of Mayors and Glencore contributed to the community Forums.

Benefits of the response:

• GWC participated in four regular taskforce groups throughout the lockdown period.

• Community Forum events were attended by 125+ people. Forums provided an opportunity for community members to share, listen and discuss together their concerns and opportunities for their respective towns.

The impact:

GWC’s strong relationships across sectors assisted with the Taskforce Response and making connections between providers and community groups. Community members shared and identified their concerns and opportunities for their community, including their COVID-19 experiences. Identified community actions continue to be supported by GWC.