Ever wondered what it’s like to volunteer with Red Dust? For 24‑year‑old Melburnian Louie Davidson, the experience was nothing short of transformative.

Louie first learned about Red Dust through a close family friend, long‑time friend of Red Dust, Santo Cilauro. Santo recognised Louie’s passion for psychology and sport—two elements that fit naturally within Red Dust’s Healthy Living Programs. Encouraged by Santo’s stories and sensing a meaningful opportunity, Louie joined a Red Dust program in Areyonga, ready to contribute, learn, and immerse himself in community life.

Teaching Emotional Awareness Through the Zones of Regulation

One of Louie’s key roles was teaching young students about the Zones of Regulation, a colour‑coded framework that helps children understand and communicate their emotions.

He explains that the program is all about building awareness—helping students pause, reflect, and recognise that every emotion is valid. “It’s about taking a moment or two to ground yourself in how you’re feeling, and learning how to move between the different zones,” he says.

A Warm and Enthusiastic Response

Despite some initial nerves, Louie quickly found his rhythm. The students were engaged from day one, embracing the activities and concepts with enthusiasm.

“The first presentation was interesting because I was a bit nervous, but the kids absolutely understood the concept,” Louie shares. “By the last few days, they’d really bought into what we were doing. It was great to see that they were enjoying it and getting something out of it.”

Immersed in Community Life at Utju

Beyond the classroom, Louie found himself deeply connected to life in Utju. He speaks with emotion about forming bonds with kids, elders, women, and the land itself.

“I honestly couldn’t put into words how special it’s been,” he says. “The emotions I’ve felt personally have been really special.”

Moments He’ll Never Forget

When asked about the highlights of his time in community, Louie doesn’t hesitate: being welcomed onto sacred country was an honour he will carry forever.

“Connecting with the kids and being taken to sacred places—that feeling is incredible,” he reflects. Learning to cook, hearing stories, dancing with aunties, and gaining new family figures—fondly described as his “new nanna and mum”—all left a lasting imprint.

A Personal Connection to Culture

Coming from an Italian background where culture and family play a central role, Louie found deep resonance in the community’s own cultural values.

“To see how much culture and family mean in community—I really connect to that. It felt special to be immersed in another culture,” he says. He describes the overwhelming warmth and support from both the community and the Red Dust team: “Everyone here has been amazing.”

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Help equip local teams year after year to run safe, strengths‑based sessions where kids name feelings, share language and build pride—on Country and in partnership.