Work Camp Pilot: Building a different path on country
Gurridi Traditional Land Council is proud to be working with Gunawuna Jungai to deliver the Gurridi Work Camp Program and create stronger pathways for Doomadgee people on Country.
The first Work Camp pilot brought seven men out to Gurridi for five days of work, learning and time together on Country. The camp was designed for men who have come into contact with the justice system, who may be at risk of doing so, or who want to build skills and gain work experience giving participants the opportunity to step into something positive, practical and connected to community.
Over the five days, the men worked together to clear and restore a shared building and surrounding areas at Gurridi. They also spent time fishing, talking, sharing meals and strengthening relationships with the people around them.
This work is about much more than completing jobs on Country, it is about giving people the opportunity to contribute, build confidence, take responsibility and develop strong connections with peers whilst on Country.
The men brought their own strengths, knowledge and willingness to work to the camp. The pilot showed what can happen when people are given the space, responsibility and support to contribute in a meaningful way.
Building skills and opportunities
The Work Camp Program is also helping connect participants with training and employment opportunities.
Through the involvement of My Pathway, participants can access training such as White Card and First Aid. Future camps will create opportunities for people to build on these foundations and develop more specialised skills depending on the work being undertaken at Gurridi.
The first pilot has already shown where these opportunities can lead. One participant moved into employment at the Doomadgee Hospital following the camp, and other participants remain connected to future work, training and camp opportunities.
These are the kinds of pathways Gurridi wants to keep building.
Working together around each participant
The partnership with Gunawuna Jungai is an important part of making the model work.
Before each camp, GJ works with participants to understand what needs to be organised so they can attend. This can include parole or court requirements, medication, appointments and other responsibilities.
For participants going through court, GJ can also provide support letters and work with their legal representatives so that the positive steps being taken through the Work Camp Program are recognised.
After each camp, Gurridi supervisors and GJ come back together to talk about how the camp went, what was learned and whether participants need connections to further training, employment, services or other support.
This means the camp does not sit on its own. It is connected to what is happening in people’s lives before they leave and to the opportunities available when they return.
Looking after Country and creating a future
The Work Camp Program is also part of the bigger vision for Gurridi, there is important work to be done to bring the outstation back into active use, care for Country, restore infrastructure and create more opportunities for Doomadgee people to spend time, work and learn at Gurridi.
Gurridi Traditional Land Council is proud of the men who participated in the first pilot and proud of what was achieved together.
The pilot has given Gurridi and Gunawuna Jungai a strong foundation to build from. Future camps will continue to support men, while there is also potential to develop camps for women, young fathers and other groups within the community.
The aim is to keep creating opportunities that are grounded in Country, community and practical work — giving people the chance to contribute, build skills and strengthen the connections that can support them into the future.
Comments