In 2012, the Australian Early Development Census (AEDC) revealed that Mid Murray had one of the highest rates of vulnerable children in South Australia. By 2018, the census showed 26.9% of children in the region were emotionally vulnerable—more than twice the state average (10.8%) and three times the national average (8.4%).
To address this issue, the Mid Murray Family Connections group was formed in 2013. This group, made up of government, medical, and community representatives, aimed to establish a Children’s Wellbeing Centre in Mannum. However, due to the small rural population, government funding wasn’t available.
Mannum Community Church stepped in, selling its chapel and ‘Tea Rooms’ to begin funding the project. Donations from groups such as Baptist Care SA, Mid Murray Council, and local organizations allowed a feasibility study to go ahead. The study confirmed the community’s need for the center, emphasizing its potential to improve health and well-being.
Unfortunately, COVID-19 delayed progress, and the Family Connections group disbanded. Despite this, the church continued its mission. In 2022, they purchased the nearby Uniting Church property, close to the local school. Plans were created to add meeting rooms and connect the two auditoriums on-site.
The church has already partnered with the school for activities like music classes and seminars. It also hosts regular programs, including Kids Club, youth group, yoga, and craft sessions. The planned facility will provide vital space for family and children’s services, aiming to strengthen community ties, reduce isolation, and support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
With construction now underway, Mannum Community Church is pressing forward despite rising costs. Turning the first sod on October 15 marked a significant milestone, but additional funding is needed as the church hadn’t expected to shoulder the entire financial responsibility alone. Mannum Community Church warmly invites the community to join and support this exciting vision as it comes to life.
Words by
Rev Colin Nieass
Mannum Community Church
