Bremer Bay group Stay on Your Feet claims Shire of Jerramungup’s community group award

A Bremer Bay group has been named the winner of the Shire of Jerramungup’s 2026 community group award for its impact on the small Great Southern community.

Stay On Your Feet is run by community elder Barbara Thomas, and the group helps promote fall prevention, wellbeing and connection among older community members.

The honour was presented as part of the shire’s Australia Day awards on January 26.

The group meets weekly to participate in different activities, from tai chi to a mock ambulance exercise to help members learn prevention strategies for injuries that can affect mobility, empowering them with knowledge and confidence to stay active and engaged.

Community member Dianne Gray has been participating in the group’s weekly sessions, and said she had seen improved community connection and personal wellbeing.

“Through her advocacy, outreach and hands-on involvement, Barbara has created sustainable programs that enrich the lives of older residents and the wider community,” she said.

Ms Gray praised how Ms Thomas motivated others to get involved, creating a supportive environment where everyone was encouraged to contribute.

Falls are the leading cause of injury for people aged over 65 in WA, with one in three adults over 65 having a fall each year. Injury Matters injury prevention general manager Roisin Sweeney said falls could have a serious effect on a person’s life.

“The impact of falls extends beyond statistics, as a fall can have a life-changing effect on someone’s mobility, activity levels, social isolation, and quality of life,” she said.

“Regular exercise like tai chi and the social benefits of community groups like Barbara’s can go a long way in preventing a fall.

“The team at Injury Matters commend Barbara for her work and passion for helping members of the shire of Jerramungup community to prevent falls.”

Older adults can find more fall prevention tips, resources and similar exercise groups in their areas at www.injurymatters.org.au.