Published 01 Dec 2025
Harmony in community
When we think about health, physical wellbeing often takes centre stage, but mental and emotional health are just as vital. One of the most powerful ways to support mental wellbeing is through social connection, and for many, music offers a meaningful pathway to connect with others.
Research shows that listening, playing and sharing music provides significant health benefits. Music can lift our mood, reduce loneliness, and foster a sense of purpose. It’s also one of the few activities that activates nearly the entire brain, strengthening the networks involved in learning, cognitive function, happiness, and overall wellbeing, particularly later in life.
Healthier Together explores how music and community come together to support mental health and wellbeing and share stories from members of Awkwardstra and With One Voice, music groups who are making a difference and creating community through a shared love of music.
The Awkwardstra | Community Orchestra
Founded in Geelong in September 2022, Awkwardstra emerged in response to the social isolation many experienced during the pandemic. The group’s mission is simple; to create a welcoming space where adult musicians of any skill level can enjoy playing in an orchestra, no auditions required.
‘Many (members) had set their instruments aside for years and found the encouragement here to pick them up again’ says founding member and president Scott Popovic.
Fostering a sense of belonging has been central to Awkwardstra’s purpose. ‘We’re proud to create a space where people of all backgrounds and circumstances can share the joy of making music together’ Popovic adds.
Beyond the music, Awkwardstra has become a hub for connection, creativity, and community. Members support one another and grow together. ‘We have personally observed many life-changing benefits to our members’ says Popovic, ‘we have a bass player who is also a composer, who has experienced challenges dealing with autism throughout his life. For some time, he was only able to communicate through composition. He wrote a beautiful composition in honour of his late sisters; an ensemble of string players decided to learn this piece and play it for him - it had never been played before. We have since included this piece in two concerts.’
Awkwardstra members have also expressed the positive benefits on mental wellbeing:
“Awkwardstra has helped me be actively involved in the community doing something I love. It has helped me meet new people and gain a more positive attitude about myself. I have something to look forward to every week.”
“I suffer from anxiety. Awkwardstra has helped me, easy friendships and community, music is important to me and I love playing with ensembles.”
Awkwardstra Geelong is a wholly inclusive community orchestra which welcomes any and all musicians, aged 17 years and over. Want to learn more about Awkwardstra? Visit Awkwardstra - THE AWKWARDSTRA | Community Orchestras
With One Voice | Community Choir
With One Voice Geelong is another inspiring example of how music can bring people together. Part of a national network of 16 inclusive choirs run by Creativity Australia, it’s more than just a choir - the group creates an inclusive space to increase joy, wellbeing and social connection through singing.
Each week, members come together to sing, but the support extends beyond the music. From garden tidy-ups, handyman help, sewing and family history research, members generously share their skills to lend a hand. It’s a wonderful reflection of how shared passions can bring people together and create meaningful bonds and foster a sense of belonging.
“From the very first time I attended, I knew this was a space I needed to be in. I love the inclusive nature of the members. Many people have disabilities, the ages range from eleven to those in their nineties, some can sing incredibly well, others not at all—yet everyone is welcome and accepted. It is truly beautiful.”
This spirit of inclusion and mutual support is at the heart of With One Voice. Members often speak of the choir as a place where they feel seen, heard, and valued. ‘I think it is the nature of getting together with a lot of people who love the same thing (singing in this case) getting together regularly in a safe space, creating something beautiful. This is so good for all of us and our mental health, it just makes you feel so much better.’
The sense of wellbeing doesn’t stop with members, it carries through With One Voice’s performances in the wider community at aged care residences, festivals and other community events.‘I love performing at Aged Care homes.The response by the residents is priceless. They love to sing along with us and many with dementia have no trouble remembering the words from songs they knew from long ago.’
Want to learn more about With One Voice?
Visit With One Voice or email geelong@withonevoice.org.au
The value of being a part of community
Connecting with others helps us feel seen, supported, and valued. Social connection doesn’t have to mean having a large circle of friends or being constantly busy. It’s about meaningful interactions, shared experiences, and feeling a part of something bigger than ourselves.
Research shows that people who engage in community activities or volunteering often report:
- Lower levels of stress and anxiety
- A stronger sense of purpose
- Gaining of perspective, increased empathy, and gratitude
- Improved resilience during challenging times
For those feeling isolated or living away from family, getting involved in a community group, volunteering, or simply spending time with others can bring a real sense of purpose and fulfillment. Whether it’s through music, shared interests, or lending a hand, being part of a community is a powerful way to support mental wellbeing. These groups remind us that connection, belonging, and joy are often just around the corner.
Other ways to get involved
Music not your thing or looking to get out and about? There are plenty of other ways to get involved in your local community:
Community Gardens
Community gardens are vibrant, shared spaces where people come together to grow fresh produce, learn new skills, and build stronger local connections. Whether you're an experienced gardener or just starting out, these gardens offer a welcoming environment to contribute to a greener, healthier community.
In Victoria; Portland Community Gardens and Ballarat Community Garden provide opportunities to meet others and get your hands dirty in a meaningful way.
The new Murnong Community Garden in Geelong, is open to all and hosts weekly working bees for those keen to get involved.
Want to find a garden near you?
Discover local gardens and get started.
Men’s Sheds
Based on the idea that “Men don’t talk face to face, they talk shoulder to shoulder”, Men’s Sheds offer a relaxed, supportive environment where men can work on projects, share skills, and build friendships. Find your local shed through the Australian Men’s Shed Association or Victorian Men’s Shed Association.
Some Men’s Sheds also welcome women and some operate as ‘Community Sheds’ open to all. There are also Women’s Sheds throughout Australia.
Walking groups
If you love to keep active, simply heading out for a walk with people can be a great way to chat and meet new people. Visit Walking heart foundation for information on a walking group near you.
GMHBA is proud to be a 2025 gold sponsor of the Friends of the Great South West Walk for their volunteer work in promoting and maintaining the renowned Great South West Walk, a 262km walk that attracts hundreds of community members and nature enthusiasts annually to explore the stunning landscapes of Victoria's southwest coast.
Making friends at any age
Whether it’s getting out and meeting new people in your community, or reconnecting with old acquaintances, social connection is key.
Healthier Together spoke with Sahra Cook, Counsellor and Life Coach, who shared practical advice on how to make new friends and connections.
Volunteering
Volunteering is a great way to give back and feel connected. Whether you have a few hours or want something regular, Volunteering Victoria can help you find opportunities that match your interests and availability. GMHBA’s corporate volunteering program gives staff the opportunity to get involved in the community, enjoying spending time to give back to where we live. Here are some of the groups we support that encourage the community to join in with volunteering:
- Our Village
A beautiful initiative combining the efforts of St Kilda Mums, Geelong Mums, and Eureka Mums, Our Village rehomes essential baby and children’s items to families in need. You can donate goods, volunteer your time, or support their mission to help every child thrive. - Geelong Foodshare
Help fight food insecurity by volunteering with Geelong Foodshare. From sorting produce to driving deliveries, there are plenty of ways to get involved and make a real impact. - Give Where You Live
Give Were You Live have a range of options, from charity event helpers to grant panelists to help give back and get involved in your community.
