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Gaming and Recovery: A Focus on Australian Rural and Regional Communities

Community engagement efforts in the Buloke Shire have highlighted the significant role online gaming plays in the lives of our residents, particularly among young people. Gaming is more than just a pastime – it’s vital for community cohesion and recovery, as shown by the successful Level Up event at Sea Lake Neighbourhood House, with over 40 attendees, and another event set for Wycheproof.

In the wake of the October 2022 flooding event, Buloke Shire Council initiated a series of community discussions through their award-winning “The Paddock: The Goals” Vodcast. These conversations uncovered the growing importance of online gaming environments as another pillar for social connectivity. Listeners heard from local gamers who described these communities as highly organized, with structures akin to traditional sports clubs, including volunteer-led registration processes, fundraising activities, and event management.

However, this connectivity is more than just about entertainment. For many young people in isolated rural areas, online gaming provides a crucial sense of community belonging.

Shared experiences are especially important where geographical distances can exacerbate feelings of isolation. Families and peer groups seek connection through various shared experiences such as platforms like YouTube Live, Twitch, and VR venues hosting virtual concerts and music festivals, services like Netflix Party and Disney+ GroupWatch for synchronized movie viewings, platforms like Zoom and Discord for book lovers to discuss literature, and services like ESPN+ and DAZN for watching live sports events together.

Platforms like Tabletop Simulator, Jackbox Games, and Among Us offer spaces where families and friends can play board games and multiplayer games online, replicating the social aspect of in-person game nights.

“The October 2022 floods and subsequent storm events brought to light the vulnerabilities of these online communities,” said Mayor Cr Alan Getley. Many faced disruptions not only in their physical environments but also in their online spaces, where they typically find solace and social interaction. Council saw the need to incorporate gaming into its broader community recovery strategy, thanks to the Australian and Victorian Government’s Community Recovery Hubs Program.

From information on staying safe online to practical advice on avoiding physical strain during long gaming sessions, the events are designed to foster a holistic approach to youth engagement in a supportive trauma-informed environment that also addresses health and wellbeing concerns.

Council has advocated strongly for improved broadband access and mobile internet coverage, allowing residents to connect more frequently with both local and global communities. This reinforces Council’s commitment to tackle black spot areas and overcome barriers while addressing cost-of-living challenges.

To register for the Wycheproof event at the Shire Council Hall, visit www.levelupgamingevents.com or contact Council’s Community Recovery Team. The event is open to 8- to 25-year-olds.

In conclusion, the Buloke Shire Council’s community engagement efforts have shed light on the significant role online gaming plays in the lives of residents, particularly young people. These events not only provide entertainment but also foster community cohesion, recovery, and a sense of belonging in isolated rural areas. By recognizing the importance of online gaming environments and incorporating them into broader community strategies, the Council is taking proactive steps to support the wellbeing and connectivity of its residents.

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