Published 01 September 2023, updated 01 May 2024
A common theme which crops up time and time again when getting to know our Bunbury ambassadors is the strong sense of community felt in Bunbury.
It truly is a place that embodies community spirit and fosters inclusivity.
According to Calm, research shows that “the stronger our sense of belonging, the stronger our well-being. While the lack of belonging contributes to anxiety and depression”.
Joining a group or club increases our sense of belonging and improves our well-being. It also allows us to meet new people and find those with a common interest to bond and connect with.
Bunbury is home to a range of clubs, organisations and community groups with something for everyone to find their niche.
If you are into physical activities and sports then Bunbury is sure to have a sporting club just waiting for your involvement. From Aussie rules to basketball, lawn bowls to croquet – no matter the pace inclusivity awaits.
Bunbury Football Club is Bunbury’s oldest Australian Rules football club established in 1892 and forms part of the South West Football League. Carey Park and South Bunbury are the two other local footy teams with all three having men’s, women’s, and junior teams to take part in.
Bunbury is a popular destination for runners too with Bunbury Parkrun taking place each Saturday morning from Big Swamp Wetlands. Parkrun is family-friendly and for all ages and abilities. Bunbury Runners Club, Hash House Harriers, Bunbury Cross Country Club and Bunbury Pub Runners are four local running clubs always welcoming new members to the fold.
Sport is not your thing? No worries – Bunbury has book clubs, stamp clubs, bush poets and yarn spinners, a laughter club, writers’ groups, flower designers and so much more.
People from all walks of life contribute to Bunbury's community
Errol Barrett - Bunbury Ambassador
Bunbury is welcoming to all cultures and ethnicities and even has its own multicultural group.
Bunbury Multicultural Group is a non-profit group of volunteers from differing ethnicities who organise local events and activities designed to help support and celebrate cultural diversity, remove barriers experienced by the local cultural and linguistically diverse (CALD) population, and welcome the existing community’s participation and attendance.
The group hosts the annual South West Multicultural Festival each year and is well attended.
The City of Bunbury owned Bunbury Public Libraries plays host to a variety of clubs such as the South West Makers Group, Crafty Yarners, Anime Club and Tai Chi. For more information on how to get involved contact the libraries.
Bunbury Regional Art Gallery is also a popular venue for local groups to convene. They also hold their own programs which are inclusive and a fantastic way to find your tribe. Recently the gallery began art classes for parents complete with creche facilities making it easier for new parents to explore their artistic side, meet new people without the need to find a babysitter.
It’s not just the adults who can immerse themselves in a community group. Kids and teens have a range of clubs to choose from when it comes to a shared interest. While team sport is one way to encourage connection there are many more options for our young people to connect. From dancing and cheerleading, to orienteering to STEAM, performing arts and creative arts – there is something for everyone.
If it is support you are looking for Bunbury also has a vast catalogue of outreach groups and community centres throughout the city.
Organisations such as Hudson Road Family Centre, Milligan House, Doors Wide Open, Bunbury Mens Shed, South West Women’s Health and Information Centre and Pathways Southwest all offer groups designed to support varying needs and challenges.