Helping connect bereaved communities with wellbeing at SWELL

For many in the Darwin community who have recently lost a loved one in palliative care, it can be hard to find the right support.

That’s why SWELL Palmerston have partnered with NT Health’s Territory Palliative Care team to deliver ‘Bobbing Along’, a welcoming Aqua Aerobics and Tai Chi program supporting participants in its Bereavement Support Club.

While losing a loved one can happen at any age, the NT’s ageing population means there has never been a greater demand for inclusive services that support senior Territorians, with projections indicating a 200% increase in seniors by 2056 (NT Government).

The NT also has the fastest population growth rate of seniors aged 65 years and older in Australia with nearly 30,000 seniors, heavily driven by the growing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander senior population.

NT Health’s Territory Palliative Care team focus on providing person and family-centred care for someone with an active, progressive, advanced disease, ensuring they feel comfortable.

Through the Bobbing Along program, SWELL is helping bereaved seniors socialise, increase their emotional wellbeing and boost their fitness through low impact exercise.

Promoting positive health and wellbeing

Regular participants, Tash, David, Margaret and Rachel praised the program for providing them with the chance to meet new people who understand their experiences.

“Awesome fun and great company, with the classes getting better each week,” said Tash.

“I appreciate how we can all move at our own pace,” added Margaret.

Led by SWELL Venue Manager Ashley Stephens, a qualified aqua instructor, swim teacher, lifeguard and group fitness instructor, participants engage in a mix of water aerobics and Tai Chi exercises, with the welcoming environment boosting mental and physical health.

Sessions run weekly for six weeks from Friday 30 October to Friday 4 December 2026, 10.30am – 12pm at a cost of only $5. The 45-minute sessions are followed by a social coffee or tea catch-up at SWELL Palmerston.

Importantly, participants’ individual grief journeys are acknowledged throughout the program, with Allied Health professionals available to provide additional support where required.

Ashley said:

“It is a privilege to work alongside the community and Tash, Bereavement Coordinator at NT Health Territory Palliative Care in ways that make a genuine difference to people’s lives.

“I deeply admire the bravery it takes to put yourself back into the community after profound loss.”

Belgravia Leisure is committed to creating positive health outcomes for ageing communities, with over 55 healthy ageing programs delivered across its national network of venues and 114,000 group exercise classes delivered in FY25-26.

By supporting seniors and patrons with programs that respond to community needs, strengthen recovery and help people feel supported through life’s challenges, SWELL is providing lasting health benefits for all.

To learn more, visit the SWELL Palmerston website.

Key facts:

• SWELL Palmerston has partnered with NT Health’s Territory Palliative Care team to deliver the Bobbing Along bereavement support program
• The initiative combines aqua aerobics, Tai Chi and social connection to support people who have recently lost a loved one
• The program is designed for participants involved in the Territory Palliative Care Bereavement Support Club
• Sessions run weekly over six weeks from 30 October to 4 December 2026
• Participants are supported by qualified instructors and Allied Health professionals
• Each session includes low-impact exercise followed by a social tea and coffee gathering
• The program demonstrates how community partnerships can support wellbeing connection and healthy ageing following bereavement.

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