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The Wakefield Spoke Network was established in 1999 as a collaborative initiative for community and human service providers, local government and regional development organizations across the Yorke Peninsula, Lower North and Barossa areas.
The areas comprise the Wakefield region, based on boundaries defined by the department of Human Services for its country health services. The region has a total population of over 83,000 and an estimated 300 community service providers. Within this region there are three community development boards and six local government regions.
The Wakefield spoke Network addresses the issues that commonly affect the rural and regional communities - such as the crucial support services and infrastructure needed for long-term sustainability.
The Wakefield Spoke Network has more than 150 members from both private and public sectors who have significant impact on regional planning as well as expertise in the fields of community care, transport, housing, education, health, leisure and more. With its combined resources and diverse membership, the Network has become recognised as a central voice for forming initiatives.
The Network initially began as the Wakefield Regional Community Care Service Providers Network founded in May 1998. The organization met on a monthly basis and conducted two regional forums.
The organization became incorporated as Community Care Service Providers Network Wakefield Region, Inc in 1999, and is now known as the Wakefield Spoke Network. During its first annual general meeting, a 12-person committee was elected, including representation from each of the three local Spoke groups based in the Barossa, Lower North and Yorke Peninsula regions.
The Wakefield Spoke Network has continued to grow in membership and develop as an important organization for collaborative work in the region. Its independence as an incorporated body strengthens its capacity to work beyond usual service and geographical boundaries.
The Network demonstrates a unique model for working together based on the individual characteristics of rural and regional communities ñ leveraging interdependence, communication and cooperation. The Network contributes to Wakefield's regional identity and draws people together over a shared concern for improving the well being of our local communities.
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