Australian-first Diabetes Program Creating Healthier Futures in Rural NSW
- jmcnamara452
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
An innovative diabetes management program developed in Collarenebri is helping patients take control of their health through culture, connection and practical care — and could be adapted to support communities across Australia.
The program, developed by Healthy Communities Foundation Australia Clinical Services Manager and proud Bundjulung woman Rishoniy Caine, was funded by the Australian Primary Health Care Nurses Association (APNA) and takes a holistic approach to managing type 2 diabetes. It combines education, traditional foods, mental wellbeing, cultural identity and movement — rather than focusing solely on medication or restriction.
“This is the first holistic diabetes program in Australia,” Rishoniy says. “It’s about so much more than food or medication — it’s about identity, education, connection and empowerment.”
“Many of my patients are told to stop eating the foods they know and take tablets, but they’re not given the tools or support to make long-term change,” says Rishoniy, a registered nurse with deep experience working in remote Indigenous communities. “I wanted to do things differently — to empower people using the resources they already have.”
The program includes individual and group sessions to build knowledge and accountability, as well as in-home cooking visits to demonstrate how to prepare healthy meals with whatever is available — even a few simple ingredients. Participants are encouraged to embrace local and traditional foods such as fish, kangaroo and native greens, and to grow or share what they can with others in their community.
Mental health and connection to culture are central to the program, with art used as a therapeutic tool and “movement” framed in accessible ways that suit the environment — from sweeping the floor to using tinned food as weights.
Early signs are encouraging, with improvements in blood sugar levels, weight, and overall wellbeing. Full results from the first cohort are expected in November.
Rishoniy will present her model at the APNA International National Conference later this month, and says it has potential far beyond Collarenebri.
“This is a program that could be adapted to any cultural group and used to prevent or manage many chronic conditions,” she says. “It’s about creating health solutions that are grounded in community and respect.”
