When I founded Riverland Active, it wasn’t just about starting a support organisation, it was about addressing a gap I could clearly see in our community. Growing up in the Riverland and later spending time on the Gold Coast, I learned the power of inclusion done well.

On the Gold Coast, My wife Casey and I had the privilege of starting our careers in the disability sector while witnessing leadership from people with decades of experience, who set a bold vision for the city to be the most inclusive in Australia. Inclusion there meant more than disability access, it meant everyone having the right to participate, belong, and thrive. That experience opened our eyes to what’s possible when a community truly commits to accessibility, connection, and opportunity for all.

In early 2022, I began planning Riverland Active. Each time I returned home to the Riverland to see family, I met with people in the community, listened, and researched the needs of locals. It became clear there was a gap; while services existed, participants weren’t always getting what they truly wanted, opportunities to socialise, build friendships, and feel a sense of belonging. Too often, support was limited to one-on-one sessions and while valuable, that model alone doesn’t always create the social connections and confidence people are seeking.

Riverland Active is also about being active, in body and mind. Whether in small ways or on a larger scale, getting out of the house, moving, and engaging in the community is so important. Even stepping away from the TV or gaming devices for a short time can have a massive impact on mental health, confidence, and connection.

Growing up, my own best memories came from simple things; hanging out with mates, playing sport, and being part of a community. Those experiences shaped me, and I know many in country towns would say the same. Why shouldn’t our participants have those same opportunities, to laugh with friends, to learn from each other, and to belong?

In 2023, my wife and I moved back to the Riverland, and by mid-2023, Riverland Active officially launched. From day one, our goal has been to build programs driven by what participants actually want. Our water sports program in summer, our Thrive Café work experience, cooking, music, crafts, sport, recreation, animal connection, and community engagement, every program comes from listening to participants and working with them to turn their ideas into reality.

We also take a different approach to staff. We don’t hire just anyone. We select people with passion, purpose, and the ability to make a positive impact. Our staff bring experience and heart, and we carefully match them to participants so that trust, routine, and growth can flourish, with consistency comes competence, and with competence comes confidence. That’s when goals are achieved and lives are changed.

We don’t measure success by numbers or spreadsheets. We measure it by seeing participants smile, try new things, and build friendships that last.

This is just the beginning. Riverland Active is about listening, building opportunities, and creating programs that genuinely make a difference. And with some exciting developments on the horizon, we’re only just getting started.

Jordan Beech Director, Riverland Active