Outback Links volunteers transform accessibility in Hawker, SA

Outback Links volunteers transform accessibility in Hawker, SA

In the heart of South Australia’s Flinders Ranges lies the small but mighty community of Hawker, home to just 340 residents. Known for its warmth and welcoming spirit, Hawker has long been a vital meeting point for locals and travellers. However, for some members of the community—particularly those with limited mobility—accessing local services had become …

Farmers are doing it tough out there

Farmers are doing it tough out there

Farmers in remote Australia face relentless challenges—droughts, isolation, and harsh conditions. For years, Ranford and Julia dedicated Outback Links volunteers, have been a beacon of hope, contributing more than 750 hours to help farmers in need. From plumbing repairs and machinery maintenance to lending a listening ear, they’ve proven that even the smallest acts of kindness …

For Bush Chaplain Noel, Men’s Mental Health Isn’t a Hard Nut to Crack

For Bush Chaplain Noel, Men’s Mental Health Isn’t a Hard Nut to Crack

In rural and remote communities, mental health challenges can often feel insurmountable—especially for men. But Bush Chaplain Noel Williams, serving Barwon, NSW, is breaking down barriers by helping men open up about their feelings. With over four decades of experience as a Chaplain, including time in the Defence Forces, Noel understands how to connect with …

Real Stories from Remote Australia

Real Stories from Remote Australia

Your kindness transforms lives in remote Australia. Every day, you make a difference for people in isolated areas, from newborns to seniors. Whether it’s helping a family manage the demands of raising children on a working farm or supporting an elderly couple through health challenges, your generosity brings hope and relief to those who need …

Bridging generations with compassion

Bridging generations with compassion

Bush Chaplain Jill Doolan’s work in Central Australia exemplifies the power of compassion and community. Fluent in three Indigenous languages and deeply connected to her community, Jill dedicates herself to supporting people through diverse challenges and bridging generations with her care. Jill’s role as a Bush Chaplain involves much more than traditional pastoral care. She …

Celebrating Gary Ferguson’s decade of service

Celebrating Gary Ferguson’s decade of service

After a decade of service, Bush Chaplain Gary Ferguson is transitioning to a new chapter. His journey began in 2014, covering 350,000 square kilometers across South Australia’s outback. Gary’s role extended beyond spiritual guidance, offering ongoing support in times of need. Establishing trust in the remote area of Ceduna took time, but Gary’s determination to …

No strangers to volunteer work

No strangers to volunteer work

Therese and Clive have always loved to move around and see new places and they were no strangers to volunteer work. The couple looked for ways they could help people while traveling before discovering our volunteer program, Outback Links. So, when she and her husband Clive finished work some years ago, the couple invested in …

The power of compassion in the Outback

The power of compassion in the Outback

Offering care and support to people in need can be truly life-changing. Showing compassion in this way helps build authentic connections and provides support that goes far beyond what is expected of us. Being present and showing that we care has the power to lift spirits and enhance wellbeing for both the person giving and …

Outback Links teamwork gives Cobargo a boost

Outback Links teamwork gives Cobargo a boost

In the heart of Cobargo, a small NSW town, the Community Garden stands as a testament to resilience, nurtured by the unwavering support of Outback Links volunteers and Frontier Services. Amidst the wreckage left by the Black Summer bushfires, Cobargo found strength in solidarity. The local Co-op, Cobargo Commons (“Cocos”), and the neighborhood pub rallied …

Day in the life of a Bush Chaplain

Day in the life of a Bush Chaplain

Bush Chaplain Lindsay Ginn brings a special kind of joy and connection to people – music! His music brings people together, breaks down barriers, and allows communities to connect on a deeper level. From his home in Kalgoorlie, he travels to local schools in Esperance to teach music to kids. And he has recently started …