A new bus, on-country cultural camps, and a real say for young people. Mudyala Aboriginal Corporation has landed $1 million to launch a four-year program for at-risk kids across the Clarence Valley.
The Mudyala BRIDGE Program is the biggest of five projects across the Clarence and Richmond valleys sharing more than $1.25 million under the State Government’s $50 million Active Regional Communities Package.
The community-led program will support children and young people identified as at risk, or living in at-risk circumstances.
The funding will let Mudyala set up the program, including buying a community bus, before moving into full delivery over the following three years.
Young people will take part in weekly group sessions, after-school and school holiday activities, and on-country cultural camps. Community Engagement Youth Workers will lead the program alongside local Aboriginal Elders, and young people will have a genuine voice in shaping what is delivered.
“We are amazed to see our team-led ideas become a reality where youth can have the opportunity to help design the programs that will be delivered,” said Mudyala CEO and Founder Aneika Kapeen.
“It’s giving the youth more agency to find what fits and really become a proactive, purposeful program generating positive growth.”
“The Mudyala BRIDGE Program represents Belonging, Respect, Inclusion, Diversity, Growth and Empower. We can’t wait to begin!”
Member for Clarence Richie Williamson said the project was an excellent example of a local organisation building a practical program around the needs of its community.
“Local people are often best placed to understand the challenges facing their communities and develop solutions that will make a real difference,” Williamson said.
“The Mudyala BRIDGE Program is a fantastic example of that community-led approach, giving young people a voice in shaping programs that are designed to support them.”
Four other local projects also got the nod:
- Coutts Crossing Croquet Club, $87,608 for a new toilet amenities block.
- Grafton Community Shed, $33,100 for upgrades to the shed.
- Coraki Memorial Bowling Club, $30,720 to upgrade its lighting.
- Assistance Dogs Australia, $99,672 for its Pups in Prison program, strengthening inmate rehabilitation and community connection in the Clarence Valley.
“While these projects are very different, they all have something in common,” Williamson said.
“They have come from organisations that understand what their communities need.”
“It is great to see organisations across both the Clarence and Richmond valleys successful in this funding round, and I look forward to seeing these projects come to life.”
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