“So much love and care in this room, we can do anything.” – Carolyn Vaughan
This was the energy at the first forum of the newly formed MUD Compassionate Community, a network dedicated to creating a more connected, collaborative, and compassionate community. Community Connect was thrilled to be part of this inspiring day.
Compassionate communities, as Professor Allan Kellehear describes, are about everyone – families, friends, organisations – playing a role in supporting people through illness, dying, death, and grief. It’s about building a culture where care is natural, practical, and shared.
At the forum, the MUD Compassionate Community group shared some exciting initiatives they’re planning on bringing to life:
- Life and Death Cafés – safe spaces to talk about life, death, and grief.
- Dying to Know Expo – sparking conversations about end-of-life planning.
- Wind phone – a disconnected phone designed to encourage the bereaved to communicate with their loved ones.
- Sorry Business Circles – culturally informed gatherings led by Aboriginal death doulas and palliative care specialists.
- Intergenerational Playgroups – connecting young and old to build understanding, curiosity, empathy and foster relationships
- End of Life Doula Hub – helping people access compassionate end-of-life care.
- Mobilising Local Support Networks – strengthening practical support and social connection within the community.
We also heard from inspiring voices like Carolyn Vaughan and Dr Brona Geary, alongside moving local stories that brought the purpose of this work to life. The forum wasn’t just about listening, participants rolled up their sleeves in small group sessions, brainstorming and planning how to make these ideas a reality.
Here at Community Connect we see immense value in spaces like this, where people bring their experiences, creativity, and compassion together. Small actions, shared knowledge, and supportive networks can truly transform communities.
Join the movement: The MUD Compassionate Community is looking for people to help drive and shape this initiative. If you would like to learn more or get involved please, call Judy Fitzgerald on 0409924724 or email contact.mudcc@gmail.com