The Wattandee Littlewell Aboriginal Corporation has been awarded a grant from the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries to hold Elders Connect Camps in 2025.

Marking a significant milestone for the Wattandee community, the funding provides essential resources to strengthen cultural ties, empower Elders and ensure the preservation of cultural heritage for future generations.

Proud member of the Wattandee community and WLAC director, Tristan Mongoo, emphasised the importance of community involvement in making this initiative a success.

"We look forward to working closely with the Wattandee Elders Council and any Wattandee Elders and Family interested in participating in these camps," Mr Mongoo said.

"Your involvement is crucial in making this initiative a success and enriching our community."

The Elders Connect Camps aim to create dedicated spaces for Elders to share their wisdom, cultural knowledge and healing practices.

Through storytelling sessions, cultural workshops, traditional arts and crafts, and time on Country, these camps foster intergenerational learning and strengthen community bonds.

"This grant is a significant milestone for the Wattandee community," Mr Mongoo said.

"It provides us with the much-needed resources to expand our programs, specifically the Elders Connect Camps initiative.

"This funding will enable us to create more opportunities for cultural exchange and ensure our heritage is preserved for future generations."

Reflecting on the inspiration behind the initiative, Mr Mongoo shared personal moments that highlight the significance of the Elders Connect Camps.

"One moment that stands out is seeing my mum, a survivor of the Stolen Generation, perform a cultural dance on her own Country—a moment she never thought would happen," he said.

"It was incredibly moving to witness her healing journey through the space we created. These camps are about more than just activities; they're about healing, connection, and celebrating our resilience as a people."

Mr Mongoo also described how previous camps provided him with his own moments of healing and connection.

"I didn't realise how much intergenerational trauma I was carrying until I participated in one of these sessions myself," he said.

"Being able to sit, listen, and share stories with our Elders was a profound experience."

The camps are designed to honour and empower Elders and create a meaningful impact on younger generations.

By fostering connections between Elders and youth, the camps ensure that traditional knowledge and cultural practices are passed down and preserved.

"We hope these camps will instill a deep sense of pride and identity in our younger generations," Mr Mongoo said.

"It's about giving our young people the opportunity to learn directly from our Elders, to understand their roots, and to carry those lessons forward into their own lives."

Looking ahead, WLAC envisions the Elders Connect Camps becoming a permanent fixture in the Wattandee community calendar as they are committed to continue these camps beyond 2025.

"Our goal is to build a sustainable model for cultural preservation and intergenerational learning that other communities can replicate," Mr Mongoo said.

"This isn't just about a single event—it's about creating a legacy."

For Mr Mongoo and the WLAC team, the Elders Connect Camps represent more than just an initiative—they are a promise.

"These camps are our commitment to honouring the past, empowering the present, and securing the future for our people," Mr Mongoo said.

"It's about creating spaces where healing, learning, and cultural pride can thrive, not just for now, but for generations to come."