From mental health to brain health and healing

Sheryl’s career shifted into community services. There, she was trained by neuroplasticity scientists and began to think about how this breakthrough could work for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children. 

If the brain changes in response to life events, then with the right approaches, it could change to heal itself and reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety and stress. 

During NAIDOC week each year, First Nations surfers and their families gather on Gumbaynggirr Country (Coffs Harbour, NSW) to take part in some healthy competition while promoting culture, connection and wellbeing.

This is the Naru Surf Gathering, the Naru Indigenous Corporation’s annual surfing event. Since 2017, the popular event has brought hundreds of people to saltwater Country in honour of Eric Mercy. 

When the bright orange blooms appear on the Mudjar Tree, it signals to Nyungar people that Birak (Summer) has begun. The tree is important in Nyungar culture. It brings knowledge about food, like the crayfish that exit their caves during Birak. Or the sweet edible gum that bleeds during Kambarang (Spring) after bark is pulled to make canoes or shields. It’s at the centre of spiritual stories and sacred knowledge.

Australian Kriol ... it’s the most widely-spoken language unique to Australia, and most people have never heard of it. Yugul Mangi Development Aboriginal Corporation of Ngukurr in the Northern Territory is hoping to change that through its Meigim Kriol Strongbala (Make Kriol Strong) program. 

‘We’ll work really hard, but shove someone else up the front to get the glory.’ Vicki Thom of Mad Mob Aboriginal Corporation in the Hawkesbury, New South Wales might be uncomfortable with the spotlight, but she and her fellow directors deserve this pat on the back for their creation of a safe space for community members in the Hawkesbury.