News

Meals, movies make a difference in Murrindindi

By Seymour Telegraph

Sep 23, 2026

Natalie Matheson, Andrew Embling, Ayden Embling, Murrindindi Shire Deputy Mayor Anita Carr and Mayor Damien Gallagher, Carren Hedger and Caolan O'Connor at one of Murrindindi Shire's Movies, Meals and Meaningful Connections events. Photo by Supplied

More than 150 people were brought together for four events across the Murrindindi Shire last month, offering the community an opportunity to ask each other the important question of “Are you okay?”

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Supported through Agriculture Victoria’s Look Over the Farm Gate program and inspired by R U OK? Day, Murrindindi Shire Council’s Movies, Meals and Meaningful Connections events were held in Yea, Alexandra and Kinglake.

The events supported community members to make time for meaningful conversations and offered a reminder of the importance of checking in on friends, family and neighbours.

While living in rural communities can be incredibly rewarding, unique challenges come with regional life.

These include isolation, distance and the impacts of drought, fire and other seasonal conditions.

From August 28 to September 11, the free community events created welcoming opportunities for people to connect with friends, neighbours and support networks.

The events were built on the idea that connection can start with a shared experience, like a meal or a movie.

Community members enjoyed screenings of Tinā and Sketch, two films exploring themes of resilience, empathy, healing and hope.

Paired with nourishing meals, the events showcased the strong community spirit of the shire.

Murrindindi Shire Mayor Damien Gallagher said the events showcased what the community did best; getting involved, looking out for each other and supporting one another through life’s challenges.

“We know that a simple conversation can make a difference,” Cr Gallagher said.

“While council is proud to provide the resources to bring community together, it is the people who attend, participate and continue those conversations long after the event who make these initiatives so valuable.”

Cr Gallagher said the events were supported by a number of key community groups.

“Council thanks Agriculture Victoria for its support through the Look Over the Farm Gate program, along with Ladies Auxiliary Pastoral and Agricultural Society Alexandra, Alexandra District Health, Yea and District Memorial Hospital, Rotary Kinglake Ranges, Inner Wheel Kinglake Ranges, Alexandra Events and Goulburn Valley Suicide Awareness Group,” he said.

“The success of the program reflects the important role community events play in fostering connection, reducing isolation and building resilient rural communities.”