General News
31 May, 2026
Help is at hand
The Southern Mallee Cooperative Parish Hall came alive with conversation, laughter and community spirit on Wednesday, May 20, as around 40 people gathered for the Cancer Council’s Biggest Morning Tea.
Now in its fourth year, the event was hosted in partnership with the Southern Mallee Cooperative Parish, Rainbow Learning Group, and Rainbow Neighbourhood House, and received strong support from the Rainbow community.
Guests enjoyed a generous spread of home-cooked food, special tea cups and warm country hospitality, creating a relaxed atmosphere for people to connect over a cuppa.
One of the event organisers, Rev Susan Pearse, said the morning tea was about much more than fundraising.
“It was wonderful to see people come together, enjoy each other’s company and support such an important cause,” she said.
A key part of the morning was a presentation from West Wimmera Health Service staff, who spoke about the support available to residents.
West Wimmera Health Service cancer support nurse Nicole Miller shared her personal background, including life on a multi-generational farm, and explained her role in supporting people living with cancer and their families.
Ms Pearse said Nicole’s message was an important reminder for the community.
“No one has to walk the cancer journey alone,” she said.
Nicole also runs a monthly Cancer Support Group at the Rainbow Learning Group and Neighbourhood House, giving local people a place to seek support and connection.
WWHS social worker Anish Poudel also spoke at the event.
Originally from Nepal, Anish said he enjoys country life and works with the West Wimmera Health Service Social Work Team to provide counselling, guidance and a listening ear to people facing life’s challenges.
He visits the Rainbow Campus each week, helping ensure local people can access support close to home.
Anyone interested in accessing services can contact the Nhill Campus, where staff can help connect them with the right support.
The event raised $833 for the Cancer Council Victoria through the Southern Mallee Cooperative Parish.
The total included a $170 donation from the Rainbow Golf Club.
Ms Pearse thanked everyone who contributed to the day’s success.
“The Rainbow community can be very proud of its generosity,” she said.
“Everybody knows someone who has been impacted by cancer, and this was a meaningful way to show support.”
