Intervention is a family affair
HAVING entire families go with their troubled youngsters to “On Country” camps in the remote Far North is a prudent idea.
The Jabalbina Yalanji Aboriginal Corporation, based at Mossman, has been awarded a contract for a fouryear $1.5 million program trial to run the camps in a bid to curb young criminals’ behaviour.
They will be taken out of temptation and a cycle of crime and learn about Indigenous cultural history and knowledge.
Through “Dreamtime” stories each participant will be able to reconnect to their identity and build on improving better relationships with families and communities.
Corporation chief execitive CEO Kupa Teao is determined to make it a success.
“It is an intervention program that has to work and it will work. It will create a pathway that can lead to a better life and strengthen their Wawu (spirit),” he said.
No doubt the youth will learn discipline and respect, team work, as well as healthy eating and living.
Far North police Chief Supt Brian Huxley says the the program will have a “high degree of flexibility”, allowing groups of either boys, girls or whole families to take part.
He wants families to be involved so that they are part of the new way of life for their son or daughter.
The senior police officer doesn’t want the youngsters falling back into their old patterns if the family situation at home doesn’t change as well. Many of the wayward youth hit the streets and commit crimes to get away from an appalling family life at home.
The process involving the family makes change for the better for everyone.
It deserves to succeed.
Nick Dalton
Deputy editor
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