Western NSW Primary Health Network has been recognised for its role in the Healthy Warrumbungles initiative, a collaborative, community-led initiative supporting better health and wellbeing across the Warrumbungle region.
Western NSW Primary Health Network (WNSW PHN) was proud to be recognised as a finalist in the Keeping People Healthy category at the 2026 Western NSW Local Health District Awards in Dubbo this month, for its contribution to the Healthy Warrumbungles initiative.
The Healthy Warrumbungles initiative is a partnership between WNSW PHN, Western NSW Local Health District, NSW Ambulance, Warrumbungle Shire Council and Rural Doctors Network designed to support better health and wellbeing across local communities.
Through shared decision-making, local leadership and community ownership, the partnership is turning community-identified priorities into practical action.
Achievements include a community health day with free skin checks and diabetes screening, the establishment of a youth forum, and four women’s health events.
WNSW PHN Senior Manager Partnerships and Strategic Projects Dr Gerald Chitsunge said the recognition highlighted the strength of local collaboration.
“Healthy Warrumbungles shows what can be achieved when organisations work alongside communities to identify priorities and deliver meaningful, locally led solutions,” Dr Chitsunge said.
“The partnership has delivered a community-owned Master Plan with more than 40 actions across six priority areas, established local advisory and implementation groups, supported community-led health and wellbeing initiatives, strengthened youth and women’s engagement, and helped progress planning for a future health hub in Dunedoo.”
The Healthy Warrumbungles initiative was recently recognised with a Partnership and Collaboration Award at the Local Government Awards in June, reflecting the initiative’s growing impact and the commitment of partners and community members across the Warrumbungle Local Government Area.
The Western NSW Local Health District Awards recognise innovation and quality care across the region. WNSW PHN congratulates all finalists and winners, and acknowledges the dedicated teams working to improve health outcomes for people and communities across Western NSW.
