Australian Loneliness Week reminds us that in everyday moments like sharing a smile, a meal, or a conversation we can reduce the impact of loneliness. This week’s theme, “Moments Matter”, encourages all of us to take small steps to connect and belong.

The Hervey Bay Neighbourhood Centre (HBNC) embodies this ideal through their Social Prescription initiative and newly funded Resilient Connections program. This unified banner brings together a variety of welcoming, community‑focused events designed to foster social bonds:

Comfort Kitchen

Sponsored by the Hervey Bay RSL and held every Wednesday evening from 4.30pm, Comfort Kitchen is a free community meal with a focus on building connection, friendship and community.

Lunch & Learn

Held the second Thursday of each month at the Urangan Community Wellness Centre, Lunch & Learn offers a two‑course meal and conversation over insightful talks from healthy living to disaster preparedness. It’s designed especially for older adults or those seeking social connection. Cost: $10.

Chat with Friends

Held the third Wednesday of each month at the Urangan Community Wellness Centre, the gathering open to all community members and brings people together over morning tea. It’s about shared food and friendship.

New to Town

Meet the locals and find out what is happening in the community. Being held the 20^th of August at the Urangan Community Wellness Centre. Just $5 for tea, coffee, and morning tea.

Why These Programs Matter

• Combatting Isolation: Nearly one in three Australians report loneliness, and in regional Queensland, that rate is even higher.
• Social Prescribing Model: HBNC’s Connecting Communities Social Prescription Program uses link workers to guide individuals through one-on-one support to opportunities that align with their interests, reducing barriers to participation and building lasting community ties.
• Structured for Success: These gatherings combine social interaction with meaningful content, learning, support, and a sense of belonging in relaxed settings.

During Australian Loneliness Week, let’s embrace the idea that small, genuine moments can make a real difference. By attending or supporting HBNC’s Lunch & Learn, Lunch with Friends, and Chat with Friends, we can all help turn isolation into inclusion, one meaningful moment at a time.

HBNC & Social Prescribing: What You Should Know

HBNC’s Connecting Communities Social Prescription Pilot, funded through the Queensland Government’s Communities Innovation Fund, offers free, personalised support to link individuals to local groups and activities. It’s open to anyone 18+ in the Fraser Coast region seeking connection, community engagement, or a healthier, social lifestyle.

If loneliness is something you’re noticing in your network or yourself or if someone is new to town or going through a life transition these community‑building events and supported pathways offer a safe, welcoming way to connect.

Together, let’s make moments matter.

Interested in learning more about Social Prescription? 

Loneliness Week 2025 

Comfort Kitchen major sponsor: