A healing centre for Aboriginal young people held an open day on Monday 8 December, and representatives from Gippsland made the long journey to be there. Partnership Committee members travelled more than two hours each way from Traralgon to Hastings to attend the grand opening of Bunjilwarra Residential Rehabilitation — a facility now run by the Victorian Aboriginal Health Service (VAHS) dedicated to helping young people overcome addiction and mental health challenges.
The day kicked off with a powerful smoking ceremony, a traditional Aboriginal practice used to cleanse and welcome people to a space. Visitors watched, listened, and recorded the moment, soaking in the spirit of the occasion. The centre, located at 197a Hendersons Road, Hastings, features beautiful grounds and modern facilities designed for healing.
Partnership Committee members spoke with staff, young residents, and representatives from organisations including VAHS and Dardi Munwurro. A highlight was meeting Gavin Brown from VAHS, who enthusiastically expressed support for the Latrobe Valley Koorie Partnership and said he looked forward to working together in the future.
The pair came away feeling inspired. “There are many ways that Bunjilwarra implement care programs that could be replicated to benefit the youth throughout GunaiKurnai lands” they noted. The visit gave them valuable insight into intake processes and the type of wrap-around care that helps young mob reclaim their lives.
8 December 2024 | Hastings, Victoria