Aboriginal women and girls in Walgett are benefitting from a local community program helping them build their confidence and self-esteem, while connecting them to language and Country.
Funded with $50,000 from the NSW Government, the Walgett Local Aboriginal Land Council has been running weekly face-to-face programs to revitalise and revive local language and cultural practices.
The program extends to communities across Walgett, including Gingie Reserve, Namoi Village, as well as engaging young women at Walgett Community College and students at the local primary school.
Activities include community Yarn Ups, workshops, Sista Speak programs and Bro Speak programs. It is also a way for women and girls to connect with local service providers such as the Thiyama-Li Family Violence Service, Walgett Aboriginal Medical Service, Dharriwaa Elders Group and Barwon Cottage.
The NSW Government is working hard to Close the Gap in Aboriginal communities, especially in regional and rural NSW where women and children face additional barriers to accessing opportunities and resources.
The Warrangal Wirringa Women's Group supports the important pillars of health and wellbeing, and participation and empowerment of the NSW Women's Strategy by building the confidence and self-esteem for Aboriginal women and girls to actively participate in community.
Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Treaty David Harris said:
"We know the best way to close the gap is by Aboriginal people shaping and driving outcomes for Aboriginal people, in partnership with the NSW Government.
"Led by the Walgett Local Aboriginal Land Council, this program is a wonderful example of this.
"The program brings a broad range of Aboriginal service providers together to help Aboriginal women and girls reach their potential, while connecting them to language, culture and Country."
Minister for Women Jodie Harrison said:
"The Warrangal Wirringa Women's Group is a fantastic initiative created by community for community, and something I'm pleased to support.
"This program has engaged local Aboriginal women and girls through language and culture to develop a stronger sense of self-worth, empowering them to make their own choices, as well as giving them access to opportunities and resources.
"Partnering with the Walgett Local Aboriginal Land Council on this program has allowed us to maximised outcomes for women and girls in Walgett. It has encouraged community participation, led to improved social and emotional wellbeing, increased participation in school, and revived local language and cultural practices."
Independent member for Barwon Roy Butler said:
"This is great news for women and girls in Walgett. Establishing links with services, culture and language is a simple thing, that can make a big difference. Thanks to the Minister for this grant, I know it will be appreciated in the Walgett area."
Walgett Local Aboriginal Land Council CEO Wendy Fernando said:
"The Warrangal Wirringa Women's Group is a space for women to connect - connect to Country and back into the community.
"We get people from the Thiyama-li Family Violence Service, MacKillop Family Services and the Dharriwaa Elders group - we all work together. It's a gathering place for our women to come and talk and give support to each other.
"The funding provided has done a lot for our women and our community."
