In the bush, booze is hardwired into our DNA: from socialising to celebrating, commiserations, business events, knock-off beers to simply drinking to "fit in. At Sober in the Country, we write and curate practical resources – like our Sober Toolbox – and connect vulnerable people to vital, vetted, trusted mental health providers and support organisations. Your donation helps us to continue creating and sharing these tools and supports, enabling mates and their loved ones to find their way towards recovery and vital, life-saving mental health support.

Our video storytelling changes lives by sharing authentic stories of a powerful cross-section of real bush people choosing a life with less or no booze. When it comes to overcoming addiction and cutting back, half the battle is won when people "see" themselves in others’ stories. So it's no exaggeration to say that our stories act as a lifeline. With your support, we can film and share more stories, and throw more lifelines to those who need to know they’re not alone and that change is absolutely possible.

In remote regions, alcohol harm is far above the national average, yet support is well below the national average. We partner with like-minded organisations to advocate for and spread the word about the critical need for equitable support for remote Australians, from home‑based Telehealth detoxes to counselling and structured recovery programs. Your shout fuels these partnerships, bringing more urgent, life‑saving help to the bush.

Our founder Shanna Whan (AM) has spoken nationally for more than a decade to change the narrative around booze in the bush – pioneering change by showing how easily we can have conversations about booze and alcohol harm in the bush. Now, we’re equipping more ambassadors to deliver workshops and talks in communities and workplaces across remote Australia. With your support, we can train more ambassadors to amplify our message and what we know is working to help our remote Australians. 

Men in the bush are our gravest concern: they're much harder to reach, less likely to seek help, and they've been taught the only way to "open up" or be vulnerable is through the lens of a brown bottle. We’re setting up a dedicated online rural men’s group to support those struggling with booze, so they can break their silence in a safe space among other men who are rural ... and who get it. Your shout helps us build this vital connection for the vulnerable blokes who need it most.

Our grassroots #OK2SAYNO (to booze) movement has already changed countless lives across the outback, from ensuring bush communities stock thoughtful alcohol-free drink options (more than just booze and sugary drinks) to equipping leaders and trainees on why it needs to be okay (always) for any of our mates to say "no" or "not today" to booze. With your support, we can expand our #OK2SAYNO movement, workshops and training nationally with an advertising campaign designed to reach more communities, workplaces, and families in remote areas of Australia where alcohol harm is high and support is scarce. Your shout will help us amplify this life-saving message nationwide.