General News
4 September, 2025
Reach out to connect
PYRENEES Community House is rolling out a range of new programs this term, with hopes they will make conversations about food security and social connection easier across the shire.
Community Engagement Officer Virginie Woolidge said food insecurity has been a pressing issue in the region, and the Community House is trialling new ways to respond.
Virginie said the gap between the need and those accessing support is still significant.
“There is a massive gap between the need and people who actually come to the food pantry. People are very disengaged. We are hoping to take some little hampers with us to events, with non-perishables, pantry essentials, it’s a work in progress.”
One of the biggest new initiatives is the Pyrenees Movie Club, which offers residents a free film and free lunch each month in towns across the shire with the recent screening of ‘Thelma’ being a massive hit with attendees.
“We had our first showing, we had about 10 people attending which for us in Beaufort is a lot,” Virginie said.
“It’s for everyone and anyone looking for a social outing. We provide a free lunch with the free movie so that’s awesome. We really want to make sure as many people make the most out of the program.”
Next month’s screening will be held in Landsborough, with details to be shared through the Community House newsletter.
The much-loved Chat and Chew community lunch has also been relaunched, running on the first Thursday of every month in Beaufort.
Thirteen locals turned out for the first lunch back, which Virginie said was heartening.
“They just want to engage with the community so we got a good bunch, which was really excellent.”
The Community House has also launched a new playgroup in Amphitheatre, which already has over six families taking part.
“It shows that there are young families where we don’t suspect it,” Virginie said.
Alongside these programs, residents can continue to join in activities ranging from line dancing, yoga, and sewing sessions, to book clubs and digital literacy workshops.
“We try and tap into most demographics,” Virginie said.
“It’s been a great way to start conversations about a lot of things.”
She added the team is also working closely with the food pantry to make supplies more accessible as part of their ongoing outreach to combat food insecurity.
“We are working with the food pantry to try and have access to their supplies more often than once a fortnight, when they are open.”
For Virginie, the message is simple, support and connection are available across the shire.
“We are out here in the shire, there is support.”
For more information on the how you can get involved with the Pyrenees Community House, check out pyreneeshouse.org.au or call 5349 3150.