headspace Geraldton is proud to join in delivering the Binmaga Barndimanmanha Mayu’s Program 2024 in the Midwest town of Mullewa.
The six-month program, co-designed with the community, will provide cultural and recreational activities. By offering young people a positive outlet and helping them to foster a strong sense of identity, the initiative aims to reduce youth antisocial behaviour.
“Binmaga Barndimanmanha” translates to “fixing up healthy mind” and “Mayu” means “young people/children” in Wajarri.
headspace Geraldton, in partnership with Geraldton Sporting Aboriginal Corporation (GSAC), will provide mental health and wellness support at Mullewa District School over eight weeks, delivering wellness activities including Safe Yarning sessions.
May Doncon, headspace Geraldton Centre Manager, said “headspace’s involvement in this project further strengthens our relationship with GSAC and demonstrates our ongoing commitment to work closely with the Aboriginal community to deliver culturally safe social and emotional wellbeing education and support.”
The WA Centre for Rural Health (WACRH) is leading the program in collaboration with Binmaga Cultural Experience (BCE), police, headspace and other local partners to deliver educational, cultural experience and social and emotional wellbeing activities, which also includes:
- Workshops on responsible decision-making and conflict resolution, which will be tailored for boys and girls in culturally safe spaces.
- A 24-week Yamaji-inspired dance program led by BCE Wajarri/Badimaya dance teacher Preston Wall and Yingarda/Nyul-Nyul choreographer Candice Dia, offering gender-specific sessions to strengthen cultural identity.
Transport services will be provided by the City of Greater Geraldton and MEEDAC to ensure all young people can safely and reliably access the activities.