The WA Centre for Rural Health (WACRH) and the Mullewa community have launched the Binmaga Barndimanmanha Mayu's Program 2024, a six-month collaborative initiative designed to address youth anti-social behaviours in Mullewa.

This diversionary program, whose name translates from Wajarri to "fixing up healthy mind" for "young people," aims to empower youth with positive activities and skills that build resilience and a sense of identity.

The Binmaga Barndimanmanha Mayu's Program is the result of a collaborative effort involving Binmaga Cultural Experience (BCE), WACRH, the WA Police Force, and other local partners, addressing a need identified by the Mullewa community.

WACRH Research Fellow Dr Charmaine Green said the program has been co-designed to meet an identified need by the Mullewa community.

"In several community forums, concerns were raised about the increase in anti-social behaviours and the need to offer positive interactions for youth and young people in Mullewa," she said.

Structured around four pillars—Education, Cultural Experience, Social and Emotional Wellbeing, and Transport—the program is comprehensive in its approach.

Educational workshops will cover responsible decision-making and conflict resolution, with tailored sessions in culturally safe spaces for both boys and girls. These workshops are a collaboration with the Geraldton Sporting Aboriginal Corporation and the WA Police Force.

The cultural experience component offers a 24-week Yamaji-inspired dance program led by Wajarri/Badimaya dance teacher Preston Wall and Yingarda/Nyul-Nyul choreographer Candice Dia.

Designed as gender-specific sessions, these classes aim to reinforce cultural identity and pride through dance and movement, fostering a connection to cultural heritage.

Supporting the mental health of Mullewa's youth, Headspace Geraldton and the Geraldton Sporting Aboriginal Corporation will provide wellness support through Safe Yarning sessions and other activities focused on social and emotional wellbeing.

To ensure accessibility for all participants, a transport service, backed by the City of Greater Geraldton and MEEDAC, will provide safe and reliable transportation to program activities.

The Binmaga Barndimanmanha Mayu's Program not only seeks to offer young people a positive outlet but also aims to strengthen the broader community by fostering a sense of cultural identity and reducing anti-social behaviours.

With an emphasis on cultural and recreational engagement, this initiative is a proactive step towards creating lasting change in Mullewa.