The Lithgow community came together on Friday 6 March for the first Lithgow Health Expo, held at the Lithgow Workies Club and delivered by Lithgow City Council in partnership with the Lithgow Information and Neighbourhood Centre (LINC).
The day began with a warm welcome from Aunty Helen Riley, followed by the official opening from Lithgow Mayor Councillor Cassandra Coleman. The Mayor noted that the expo grew out of a recent Council-led community health forum, which highlighted the need for locals to better understand the range of services available in the region. Local Member for Bathurst, Paul Toole, also spoke, emphasising the importance of strong regional health services and ensuring communities like Lithgow can easily access support and information.
While the expo included a particular focus on health information for seniors and people living with disabilities, the event welcomed people of all ages for a lively and informative day dedicated to health, wellbeing and local services.
The free expo brought together a wide range of health and community organisations, giving residents the chance to learn more about the support available locally and speak directly with professionals who work in the sector. Throughout the day, visitors explored information stalls, attended presentations and took part in practical wellbeing activities.
A key highlight was the public launch of The Health of People in Lithgow, NSW 2025 report. Developed by the Lithgow Rural Clinical School of the University of Notre Dame Australia in partnership with the Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District Public Health Unit, the Nepean Blue Mountains Primary Health Network and Lithgow City Council, the report provides a detailed snapshot of health and wellbeing across the Lithgow Local Government Area and will help guide future planning and health initiatives.
A panel session with the report’s authors gave attendees the chance to learn more about the findings and what they mean for the community.
Professor Lynne Madden from the University of Notre Dame Australia said the report was built through strong local collaboration.
“This was not simply a research exercise; it was a genuine partnership with local health and community organisations who understand the health needs of the people of Lithgow,” Professor Madden said.
During the day, speakers from organisations including Service NSW, the Primary Health Network, Dementia Australia and Seniors Rights Australia shared practical advice on accessing services, planning for the future and maintaining good health.
Information stalls were hosted by groups including Lithgow Fire and Rescue, Anglicare, Flourish Australia, Lithgow Rotary D-Café, Diabetes Australia and the Lithgow Community Private Day Surgery and Specialist Centre.
Entertainment added to the welcoming atmosphere, with popular local duo Free and Easy performing in the morning and Abby Smith leading a lively afternoon sing-along. Many of those joining in are also part of the All Abilities Choir at LINC, which Abby runs each Wednesday.
Another highlight was a visit from Stray, the much-loved puppet used by Arts OutWest in therapy and engagement programs across the region.
Visitors also enjoyed activities in the Wellbeing Room, including gentle movement sessions, seated yoga, falls prevention advice and a nutrition workshop.
A collection of information from the expo is now available at Lithgow Library for anyone who would like to learn more about local health services.
