Preventive Health SA: Karoonda
From meaningful conversations and morning walks to free health and screening checks, a three-day activation in Karoonda demonstrated the power of bringing people together through movement, connection and practical support. Held from 16-18 April 2026, the event was delivered by Fat Farmers in partnership with Preventive Health SA, Diabetes SA and Breakthrough Mental Health Research
Foundation.
The activation began on Thursday evening at the Mallee Districts Sporting Club, where former AFL captain Tom Jonas joined local football training before taking part in an informal mental health discussion facilitated by John Mannion, CEO of the Breakthrough Mental Health Research Foundation. The session created an opportunity for open conversation around leadership, resilience and mental wellbeing in a setting that felt comfortable and familiar to local participants.
On Friday morning, approximately 20 people gathered for an early Walk & Talk around Karoonda with John Mannion and Fat Farmers CEO Richard Sheppy, followed by a community barbecue breakfast. The event highlighted the importance of social connection, with participants sharing stories, building relationships and discussing the challenges and opportunities facing rural communities. Sometimes, it is these simple conversations that have the greatest impact on someone's health and wellbeing.
The weekend culminated on Saturday at the Karoonda Football Oval, where Fat Farmers partnered with Diabetes SA to facilitate free health and screening opportunities through the Health Hub. The football environment proved to be an ideal setting for engaging local people in conversations about their health, making preventative care feel approachable and accessible.
A total of 28 participants completed an AUSDRISK assessment.
Importantly, the screenings identified 11 as high risk for developing type 2 diabetes reinforcing the importance of bringing preventative health and screening services directly into regional communities where access can be limited.
Events like this demonstrate what is possible when trusted community organisations work together. By combining physical activity, mental health conversations, social connection and access to health and screening services, we can help close the health gap experienced by many rural Australians while strengthening the communities that make regional Australia such a special place to live.
A huge thank you to everyone who attended, volunteered and partnered with us throughout the weekend. Together, with Preventive Health SA, we're not just running events, we're growing healthier communities through preventive approaches.
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