“We need to educate our people, our young ones as well, to live a healthy life: to stop smoking and eat a lot of fruit, veggies, and drink water, and do lots of training. We’re lucky that we’ve got Healthway supporting this program. They’re our number one.” Bruce Booth, Chairperson Ngurra Kujungka.
First Nations communities in the Western Desert of the East Pilbara may be separated by big distances, but Ngurra Kujungka makes sure each of its far flung groups stay connected and focused on achieving their mission: a strong, healthy community, based on what their people want now and in the future.
Among Ngurra Kujungka’s network of partners, Healthway has been a consistent supporter – funding programs that promote healthy eating, and reduce smoking and vaping, alongside broad sport and recreation initiatives. Each year, these efforts come together in the form of the Martu Youth Festival and Make Smoking History event, hosted by a different community every 12 months.
Martu people from Parnngurr, Punmu, Nullagine, Warralong, Strelley, Jigalong, Parnpajinya (Newman), Kunawarritji and Yandeyarra come together for an action packed six days of celebration through sport, music and culture, and career development. By day, there are energetic football and softball games and talent-spotting and career development opportunities with the West Coast Eagles and other sports representatives. By night, families enjoy concerts featuring prominent First Nations artists, with healthy food and messaging woven throughout.
“We see the young ones, they’re healthy, they’re running around, they eat the right food and drink water and enjoy their sports and the culture that we bring together.”
He also sees how those who are new to the festival’s messaging become curious about it:
“There are a lot of people who want to come up and see the festival. They enjoy it and ask questions. And we get to talk about drugs and alcohol as well.”
The festival is just one part of a broad picture. Ngurra Kujungka also runs thriving school holiday programs, before and after school activities, swimming lessons, and employs a full-time recreation officer across several communities.
For Bruce and the other elders, their collective vision is always front of mind:
“It’s important to me and the elders to put a plan in place and look after our young ones. The future will come if we set up a foundation for the kids and train them up how to do the right thing.”
