When it's Hot

In an innovative new trial, Clunes Neighbourhood House will be opening pop up 'Cool Room' at Attitude: Ageing Well in Clunes at 25 Fraser Street on 35 degree PLUS days from 2pm – 6pm. 

Trial Until Winter

As global temperatures rise, heat stress has become an increasingly important public health concern so it is not surprising that a building linked to a pioneering living and ageing well hub is at the centre of a community-led heatwave solution for Clunes.  In collaboration with Shire and Health stakeholders and supported by a rostered team of local volunteers, Clunes Pop-Up Cool Room at Attitude kicked off in February 2025 and will be trialed until winter.

Heat Stress is Real

Heat stress occurs when the body’s temperature regulation system is overwhelmed, leading to dangerous conditions like heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can cause dehydration, fatigue, dizziness, and in severe cases, organ failure or death. Vulnerable groups, such as the elderly, children, people with chronic health conditions, and outdoor workers, are at a higher risk.

Public buildings equipped with air conditioning offer a safe haven, allowing individuals to escape the oppressive heat and cool down. These spaces not only provide physical relief but also promote social connectedness, mental well-being, and community resilience during extreme weather events.

“Often these buildings are service centres, but in smaller towns accessible, airconditioned buildings that are resourced are harder to come by,” said Lana de Kort, Manager, Clunes Neighbourhood House. 

Clunes has a history of finding ways for people to activate public buildings (like Attitude which Neighbourhood House leases from Council) for community-led activities and programming,” explained Lana, “Having these relationships and past successes, inspires community to tackle tricky challenges like heat stress creatively, and collaboratively.”

A Space for All Ages

While Attitude was formerly known as the Senior Citizen’s Centre and has grown to become an age-friendly space purposely activated by older residents under Neighbourhood House’s community led programming framework, people of all ages are always welcome.

“A Canadian called Dr Mark Frankel identified five key stages of ageing; self-sufficient, interdependent, dependent, in crisis and end of life, “ said Lana.  “Many of the active people we see in community are often at that first stage where they are self-sufficient.  But it’s often in times of stress; like heatwaves, that we start to realise that by leaning on each other, we can address vulnerabilities, and all end up stronger for it.”

“The Pop-Up Cool Room is a practical example of interdependence at its best.  People need access to free airconditioned environments, and here is a space they can use, supported by other people who’ve volunteered to open that space up so everyone can enjoy some relief from heat.”

Interested in being part of the roster of volunteers?  Contact Di Connors, Living and Ageing Well Officer at di.connors@chrh.org.au, call 53 45 40478 or simply visit Neighbourhood House.