Charleville Mental HealthWorkshop
Local
context
Charleville
is a town of approximately 3200 residents combined with the rural community to
around 5000. The predominant rural activity is grazing of sheep, cattle and
goats. Sheep and shearing, which were once a strong employer in the area, have suffered
a serious decline in the last decade. There is a meat works in the township
which is a high employer and brings itinerant workers in to fulfil the work
force demand.
It is a
major regional government centre servicing approximately 10 000 people, many of
these employees are itinerant. Mining
exploration has begun in the area, Coal Seam Gas is at Morven and Augathella
and coal and other minerals are being investigated. There is a large pipeline
from the Jackson Oilfields which goes through to the coast.
The
population shows all demographics: A number of young people who left the area for
schooling have acquired new skills or professions and returned to the community
with their young families. This offers a strong social network with many
generations of the same family supporting each other. The rural population on
properties has declined, resulting in the number of children participating in
School of the Air reducing from 240 down to 160. Smaller townships in the area
have undergone an increase in population due to housing availability and
cheaper rent. This can result in feelings of isolation for these residents with
no close family support.
The
indigenous community was seen to be well serviced and to have a strong
community within themselves. It was believed that they represented
approximately 20% of the overall population.
Flooding
has had a large affect on the township, with businesses having trouble gaining
or affording insurance. There has been little growth in the business sector, with
new businesses not lasting much beyond the 12 month period. This combined with
the rumours of stoppages to rail services, has left the town feeling vulnerable.
Issues impacting on uncertainty,
stress and mental health
Government policy
