Eugowra Announced As Finalists Of The 2026-27 Building Healthy Communities Challenge

Western NSW Local Health District’s Health Promotion team is delighted to announce Eugowra as the two finalists for the 2026-27 Building Healthy Communities Challenge, which will run until April 2027.

This is the third edition of the challenge, which empowers towns with fewer than 5,000 people to improve their health by providing resourcing, practical assistance and funding to implement a community-led health initiative.

WNSWLHD Health Promotion Coordinator Hayley Vaughan said the primary focus of the challenge is to help towns develop the skills required not just to implement their initiative, but also to embed it in a sustainable, long-term way.

Eugowra’s program, called ‘Growing Together, Moving Together’, focuses on three key areas: building healthy eating habits and practical food skills, encouraging gentle and accessible physical activity for people of all ages, and creating opportunities for intergenerational learning and connection.

“The establishment of a community garden, where residents can grow and harvest fresh produce, is a key aspect of Eugowra’s program,” Ms Vaughan said.

“The garden is designed to build knowledge, skills and confidence among community members, while creating a lasting community asset that can be owned and maintained by locals well beyond the challenge.

“The program will also promote physical activity through weekly community walks, one of the simplest and most accessible forms of exercise. Supported by the local school and Multipurpose Service, the walks will be open to everyone in town.

“Intergenerational learning will be woven throughout all program activities, creating opportunities for people of different ages to connect, share practical and life skills, and strengthen community relationships.”