What began in 2015 as our founder, Shanna Whan AM, sharing the raw truth of her recovery from alcohol addiction through a simple blog (hoping it might help someone else feel less alone) has evolved into a nationally respected charity now recognised as both pioneers and the lived-experience experts around advocacy in this complex space.

We are deeply committed to speaking the truth in a user-friendly, inclusive, and non-judgmental way. Our work is about being the change that was so badly needed. We amplify the voices of those affected by alcohol, whether directly or indirectly, and bring a grassroots, lived-experience perspective to the national conversation. Our aim is to help shift the narrative around drinking culture in the bush and give everyone (whether they're drinkers or non-drinkers) the tools to evolve. To ensure everyone's included, always.

Our focus is advocacy, education, and awareness, particularly through social media and speaking engagements. We also provide a beautiful, safe, online space in our peer-to-peer support network, the Bush Tribe, where we connect rural and remote Australians to each other, to tools, and with expert organisations that offer professional services and additional support.

BREAKING NEWS: soon, we'll be offering #OK2SAYNO workshops for progressive teams and leaders and sharing a decade of hard-wom learnings. Keep an eye on our socials for more!

It's essential that newcomers to Sober in the Country understand that we aren’t a program, counselling, or service provider, but you can find those we recommend here.

Choose from the buttons below to find out more about our charity, our values, our team and how we’re changing the narrative around booze in the bush and bringing more support to our rural mates.