Kuranda Paper  – PDF version with photos (Page 1)

CONNECTING TO COUNTRY, CULTURE AND WELLBEING

In September 2026, Ngoonbi’s Alcohol and Other Drug team organised an on-Country camp. The group travelled to the Western Yalanji Country in Laura, providing the participants with an opportunity to step away from their everyday environment and focus on healing, restoration, wellbeing and connections.

The camp was designed for community members requiring more intensive support and provided a safe and supportive environment where participants could reconnect with culture, spend meaningful time on Country and take part in open and supportive conversations.

Throughout the camp, participants were encouraged to strengthen their cultural connections and focus on social and emotional wellbeing through yarning, healthy routines and positive decision-making.

The experience also provided an opportunity to build stronger and more trusting relationships with Ngoonbi’s Alcohol and Other Drug staff. Being on Country played an important role in supporting participants to reconnect with cultural knowledge, identity and a sense of belonging. Away from the pressures and distractions of everyday life, participants had space to reflect on alcohol and cannabis use, harm minimisation, family wellbeing and their goals for the future.

Campers enjoyed yarning around the campfire, cultural burning, visiting several rock art sites and hiking through Country, with the rewarding experience of reaching a remote waterfall. A four-wheel-drive buggy adventure also took the group to special places where they experienced the rich culture and natural beauty of Country.

The camp demonstrated the value of culturally-grounded support that brings together Country, culture, connection and wellbeing. Through yarning, reflection and shared experiences, participants were supported to consider positive choices and pathways towards healthier futures.

A big thank you to Jarramali Rock Art Tours and everyone who came along and shared their knowledge, stories and culture.

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Kuranda Paper  – PDF version with photos (Page 13)

Kuranda Community Comes Together for R U OK?

The R U OK? event, held on 8 August 2026 at Centenary Park, Kuranda, was a great success, bringing community members together for a day of connection, culture, fun and wellbeing. The event provided a safe and welcoming space for the Elders and community to come together, to enjoy great food, listen and dance to live music by Cloud 9. There was plenty of fun for children and families. The activities included playing EDOR (a fast paced traditional chase and tag team game), cultural weaving, oztag, mini soccer and tug-of-war.

Local support services also joined the event, providing community members with valuable information about the assistance and support available when they or someone they know may need a helping hand.

Ngoonbi would like to sincerely thank Mulungu and their Deadly Choices team, TRACQS, Kuranda Neighbourhood Centre, John Moriarty Football, Anglicare, Mareeba
Community Centre, Family Drug Support, Mareeba Shire Council, FNQ Connect and CORES Qld for supporting the event and helping make the day a success.

Events such as R U OK? provide an important reminder about the value of staying connected and taking the time to genuinely check in with family, friends and community members.

A message from the R U OK? team:

Check in on each other. A conversation could change a life.