Indigenous Community Volunteers

Suburban Brisbane was the scene for an ICV project which helped Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children re-connect with their culture and traditions.

The Binambi Barambah camps held in Brisbane’s north, are the brainchild of respected elder Ruth Hegarty and her late husband, and are aimed at children aged between seven to 16 years.

Aunty Ruth says it became clear that many of the children who had moved with their parents to the Queensland capital were in danger of losing their culture.

“These camps give the young people a sense of togetherness. We teach culture, art and language. The young people are taught to understand what the meaning of respect is in Aboriginal culture and to me that is the most important lesson taught at these camps,” Aunty Ruth explained.

With a steady flow of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people choosing to live in the area, support for the families was a priority.

Aunty Ruth who is also an author and community activist, had worked closely with the Geebung Baptist Church to get the scheme going.

However it is now in the hands of the Binambi Barambah Aboriginal Corporation (BBAC) which is a non-profit organisation chaired by Aunty Ruth.

“These camps give the young people a sense of togetherness. Cultural awareness is coming together and we value that above anything else,’ she said.