The project was formed in response to a need by the Aboriginal

community of Quorn for programs that address their social and

emotional isolation as well as health issues.

In consultation with Michelle Zada, the new Aboriginal Primary Health Care Access Worker from Pika Wiya Health Service in Port Augusta, and Jacinta Hannigan, the Community Support Worker for the Outback Regional Health Service Program, this social and emotional wellbeing

project was formed.

“The original idea was to get the older ones out and about instead of sitting home and watching telly,” says Friends of Colebrook President Nancy Murray.

“And maybe get the health mob to give talks.”

With support from Michelle Zada the group managed to get themself a “little grant”, as Mrs Murray describes it, of several thousand dollars, “to

buy a few things, art and craft

stuff, and get a garden going”.

Clara Johnson of Colebrook Community offered the use of a large shed to work in.

In addition to weekly craft sessions, Friends of Colebrook also organises the occasional get together for the wider community.

During NAIDOC week they had 70 mums and kids turn up to learn dot painting and hear stories, and also eat damper and ‘twisties’.

And more than 60 people turned up to a curry night late in July.

More recently, Friends of Colebrook hosted a barbecue and story telling as part of Quorn’s

well-being week in the school

holidays just gone.

“It seems to be what they

wanted – we’re getting a lot of

people,” Mrs Murray said.

“Aborginal people have a lot to give, it’s just that they’re shy and stand back a bit.”