In remote communities across Australia, staying connected to family, Elders, and cultural practices is central to wellbeing and identity. During a recent camp in the Minjilang community—supported alongside members from Warruwi (Goulburn Island)—Red Dust (RD) had the privilege of walking alongside local men to create a space centered on culture, healing, and leadership.
Honoring Community & Cultural Respect
The camp took shape under unique circumstances. With Sorry Business taking place across the island, community members were actively involved in supporting families. Out of respect, Red Dust asked if hosting the camp would still be appropriate. The community welcomed the initiative with an enthusiastic yes, and together, the team cooked for those in the Sorry Camp to pay their deep respects and show solidarity.
Culture on Country: Strengthening Identity and Healing
At the heart of the program was time spent on Country, engaging in traditional practices like making spears and harpoons for hunting dugong and turtle.
For the participants—many of whom were on work release through the Mamubak program—this was far more than an activity. Being back home on Country provided a crucial space away from external pressures, substances, and negative influences. It reconnected the men with their roots, reaffirming their sense of belonging, identity, and cultural responsibility.
Mentorship and Intergenerational Leadership
The ripple effect of the camp was felt immediately:
- Passing Down Knowledge: During fishing and spear-making activities, the young men stepped up into leadership roles. They taught school-aged students how to handle and use the equipment, creating a natural environment for mentorship, cultural transmission, and community pride.
- Shared Experiences & Prevention: Jace, who has been working with Red Dust through Strong Young Men's Business (SYMB), shared his personal story with local men in similar life circumstances. His open conversations encouraged others to steer clear of path choices that lead to incarceration, highlighting the power of relatable role models.
- Planning for the Future: Open discussions centered on life after probation, navigating employment opportunities aligned with individual interests, and the importance of leaning on local Elders, uncles, fathers, and grandfathers for ongoing guidance.
A Growing Need for Mental Health Support
While the camp brought immense positivity, it also highlighted key community realities. Following the recent passing of a young local man, participants and organizers identified a critical need for Red Dust to further expand its footprint into dedicated mental health support and suicide prevention spaces.
Looking Ahead
The impact of the Minjilang camp was echoed by local Elder Uncle Jimmy Cooper, who shared that he was "very impressed with Jace and Malik," adding that they were welcome back to the community at any time.
By grounding young men in their heritage, providing positive male role models, and fostering intergenerational leadership, programs like this prove that true community strength begins with connection to Country and culture.
Help Us Keep Connection to Country Alive
Every young person deserves the opportunity to learn from Elders, reconnect with culture, and build a positive path forward. Your support directly funds On-Country camps, mental health support, and mentoring programs across remote Indigenous communities.
