General News
28 October, 2025
Sober message on shifting the culture
RECENTLY, Harrow Bush Nursing Centre hosted a significant crowd of 120 community members to hear the wise, funny and important words of Sober in the Country founder, Shanna Whan AM.
Her personal story was hard to hear, but as she said, 'she is not unique' and her story is, unfortunately, all too common.
Overcoming trauma, addiction and suicidal ideation through professional assistance and the support of her husband, she worked hard to climb back – her story left the audience with few dry eyes.
It prompted heartfelt questions from some brave people.
With everyone enjoying pizzas afterwards, Shanna reiterated that the message was not about prohibition but rather a shift in emphasis.
Aussie culture has centred on drinking and catching up with others, yet the genuine part is connecting and yarning with mates.
She touched on the importance of pubs, clubs, and sporting groups as key places to play their part by offering a full range of appealing non-alcoholic options.
Expanding choices beyond just ‘Coke or juice’ was important to include those who weren’t drinking on the day or not at all.
Shanna also spoke to the teenagers present about how they can talk to their friends, manage different situations and that it was always #OK2SAYNO to booze.
The event was made possible with the assistance of a VicHealth Growing Healthy Communities Grant.
For a list of resources and support organisations for non-urgent support for people affected by alcohol harm, head online to soberinthecountry.org/contact-us
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