The kettle is on, the chairs are pulled close together and the conversation comes easily.
For many people in Lakes Entrance and Nowa Nowa, Gippsland Lakes Complete Health’s Social Support groups offer far more than activities and morning tea, they provide protection against one of the biggest health risks people face: being alone.
In Nowa Nowa, the social support group has been part of the fabric of the community for decades.
“I’ve no idea how long it’s been here — probably around 50 years,” local resident Marie Joiner said.
Marie and her sister Heather Ostler have long ties to the group, with both family history and friendships spanning generations.
“Our mum used to come, and so did other local families. People would bring their mums, grandmothers, aunties — it was women and men back then,” Marie said.
For Margaret Campbell, returning to the Nowa Nowa group was like coming home.
“I lived locally for 20 years before I was married, then moved away,” she said.
“When my husband had a very bad stroke, I stayed home. And after he passed away, I decided I wanted to come back because Nowa Nowa is my grassroots. The people are special, I love them all.”
She said the friendships built through the group are what keep her coming back.
“It’s the friendship. Even when we had the men involved, they were lovely people. We’ve had a lot of friendship over the years,” she said.
For Marie, the support runs both ways.
“It’s just being part of the group. When you live on your own, you get into it,” she said.
“They’ve been a big help to me, especially over the last six months when I’ve been ill.”
Living in small towns like Nowa Nowa can also mean isolation, especially for those who no longer drive.
“Anyone in Nowa Nowa is welcome to come,” Marie said.
“We have a problem with people who retire here and don’t realise how isolated it is. With petrol and not being able to drive, it’s easy to get into town here, but it’s hard to get into Lakes Entrance.”
That experience is reflected in growing evidence showing loneliness isn’t just a feeling — it’s a serious health issue. Large studies have found it carries health risks comparable to smoking.
Research from Monash University shows those who regularly participate in social groups and community activities have better long term health outcomes.
In Lakes Entrance, GLCH runs a Social Support program offering a supportive space, activities and connection.
Social Support team lead Tracy Camidge said the heart of the programs is people.
The days include craft, word games, chair exercises and offsite activities such as going out for a coffee at a local cafe, mini golf and fishing.
“The whole program is around connection and interaction, engaging and stimulating clients and keeping them connected to the community,” Tracy said.
She said isolation is one of the biggest challenges facing older community members.
“For some people, this is their only outing for the week,” she said.
“It breaks the monotony of medical appointments and living alone. There’s shared food, shared interests and genuine friendships that develop.”
The service supports people across ages and includes people accessing services through Support at Home packages and NDIS funding.
“We’re not limited by who can attend,” Tracy said.
“People don’t really see us as staff — over time, real friendships form. That connection is the icing on the cake alongside their medical and allied health care.”
Margaret puts it simply.
“Just come along,” she said.
“We’d all love to have you — and we’d give you all our love. That’s what we’re all about.”
People interested in joining the Social Support programs in Lakes Entrance or Nowa Nowa can contact Gippsland Lakes Complete Health through the main reception to find out more.
