HBNC is excited to announce the launch of its new Social Prescription Initiative: Indoor Lawn Bowls.

This weekly event, set to kick off on Friday, October 6th, aims to foster a fun and relaxed environment where community members can come together, connect, and socialise, all while combating isolation and loneliness in the Hervey Bay community.

Loneliness and social isolation have become significant concerns in our society, with adverse effects on mental and physical health.

In response to these challenges, HBNC has launched the Connecting Communities Social Prescription Pilot - a first-of-its-kind service for the Wide Bay region – which aims to support and empower every person to connect, participate, contribute and thrive in our community.

Thanks to the generosity of the Hervey Bay Boat Club, who provided four bowling greens and sets of bowls, HBNC is set to launch weekly indoor bowls get-togethers as part of this exciting new initiative, HBNC CEO Tanya Stevenson said.

HBNC CEO Tanya Stevenson with Hervey Bay Boat Club's George Duck.

"We are thrilled to introduce Indoor Lawn Bowls as part of our Social Prescription Initiative," Tanya said.

"This initiative aligns perfectly with our mission to strengthen our community by reducing isolation and promoting social engagement. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Hervey Bay Boat Club for their invaluable support, as their contribution has made this program possible."

Indoor Lawn Bowls will take place every Friday, starting 1pm-3pm on October 6th, at the Hervey Bay Community Centre – 22 Charles St, Pialba.

The event welcomes participants of all ages and skill levels, whether they are experienced bowlers or newcomers looking to try something new. By providing a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere, Indoor Lawn Bowls will encourage social interaction and help individuals build lasting connections.

What is Social Prescription?

Based on models developed in the UK, social prescription aims to improve health outcomes by addressing the issues of social isolation and loneliness within our community.

The term ‘social prescribing’ is listed as one of the 10 high-impact actions in the General Practice Forward View (NHS England 2016) and is a non-medical option used by health professionals when a person has needs related to socio-economic and psychosocial issues.

Social prescribing is an opportunity to implement a sustained, structural change to how a person moves between professional sectors and into their community.

Find out more about Connecting Communities