For many Tasmanians, Christmas is a time of joy – sharing meals, laughter, and traditions with family and friends. Yet for others, the season can be a reminder of what’s missing: companionship, fulfillment and connection.
At St Lukes, we believe connection is Tasmania’s superpower – but it’s a strength we don’t always put into practice as much as we could. This Christmas, we’re calling on the community to help us change that.
This year we undertook a piece of research, engaging with Tasmanians from all walks of life, to help us understand what truly helps people live healthier, happier lives. The message was clear: meaningful, social connections are key to people taking that first step to better health. They are also key to sustaining healthy behaviours. And when these actions are shared – such as walking with a neighbour or joining a dance class – the benefits multiply. As one person told us, ‘Being part of a community group makes me feel more motivated and accountable because I’m not doing it alone’.
Life is busier now than ever before. When people are juggling work, family and multiple commitments, their health often takes a back seat. That is why connection matters so much. Encouragement, support and accountability are not just nice-to-haves, they are catalysts for preventive health. When we show up for each other, we make healthier choices easier, more enjoyable and more sustainable.
Tasmanians told us they want wellness woven into their daily routines, not tacked on as another obligation. They want inclusive, accessible spaces – places that make it easy to connect, learn, move and feel supported.
And we have answered the call, leading preventive health and wellness in practical ways, tailored to Tasmanians. Our business has diversified – driven by the needs and expectations of our members and the community and our obligation as Tasmania’s leading not-for-profit health and wellness organisation. This achievement proves that bold, innovative approaches are possible, and we hope to encourage other organisations and the Government to take fresh approaches to preventive health for the benefit of all Tasmanians.
We see it every day in our St Lukes wellness hubs, where more than 300 community partners have come on board to co-curate programs that Tasmanians want and need. We have welcomed more than 35,000 people through the doors in Launceston and Hobart in the past two years, participating in programs, benefiting from services and engaging in events.
What we know is that in our state – health happens together. Connection builds the encouragement and support people told us they need to be healthier. That is why this Christmas, our call to action is simple: reach out. Start a conversation, touch base and reconnect – a simple act can make a profound difference. For me, this will mean checking in with my neighbours, calling an old friend I haven’t spoken to for a while, and inviting a mate or family member to join me on a walk.
Our vision is to make Tasmania the healthiest island on the planet, and our purpose is simple – to connect Tasmanians to each other and to the right services and support. We are committed to empowering individuals to take charge of their own health and wellbeing, making it something that feels easier, and more joyful. Because when we are connected, we are healthier.
Paul Lupo is CEO of Tasmania’s leading not-for-profit health and wellness organisation St Lukes.