Kuranda Paper  – PDF version with photos (Page 21)

NGOONBI Community PROGRAM

Ngoonbi plays a key role in delivering many Kuranda community events and activities in strengthening the Social, Emotional and Well Being of individuals and families to build resilience and strong foundations for members of our community. Activities such as facilitating workshops and sessions such as Mental Health First Aid, drug education, fortnightly Mens’ and Womens’ Group, parenting and playgroup, NAIDOC Week, a Talent Quest, Deadly Funny in collaboration with the Melbourne International Comedy Festival, weekly sporting, youth support and outings, cultural
events and school breakfast assistance to name a few.

The common theme for all these activities is clear, simple messages to promote strong families, mental and physical health, education and learning, and the value of family cohesion and community support.

This is community engagement which is about education, empowerment, resilience and developing healthy relationships. Ngoonbi wants our community to know we are here to support the
community wherever we can.

For example, the Sport and Recreation program runs numerous activities focused on youth and the idea that exercise is good for mental and physical health. Sporting events include during school activities, after-school touch footy, tennis, and soccer in the communal spaces at Kuranda, Mantaka and Kowrowa. There are school holiday outings to try a range of sports and skills such as skating and innovative ball games with the John Moriarty Football Program on Cairns Esplanade.

The connection between exercise and health is made clear and reinforced in the discussions with participants. This is of considerable value on its own but this is not the only thing happening here.

Sporting and other community events are a means of connecting with and gaining the trust with individuals and in the community. This trust allows Ngoonbi to identify and develop relationships with vulnerable children, youth and families whether at school or in community to strengthen the social, emotional wellbeing, health outcomes and to minimise substance abuse.

Specialist staff at Ngoonbi will engage, assist and walk alongside of individuals and their families. Our resident Social Worker is also available for sessions from Monday to Thursday by appointment only. We encourage individuals to seek support and link in with Ngoonbi, relevant agencies and NGOs. Ngoonbi offers to stand with families on their journey in attaining their aspirations, to creating life opportunities for a better future.

Ngoonbi’s mission is to support the First Nations community and those most vulnerable in whatever way we can. We also act as a service provider for government funded programs, providing various community services and support. For example, the Commonwealth Emergency Relief Fund is available to provide crisis funding if you are on income support benefits and/or experiencing extreme circumstances. This may include help in buying food, paying utility bills, transport assistance or assisting with unexpected costs during a crisis. Ngoonbi can help you access this support.

You can contact our Kuranda office at 2/40 Coondoo St, Kuranda or phone 07 40937177 for further assistance or to make an appointment with our friendly staff.