The Tjindu STRONG program has returned to the Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara communities (the APY Lands) in Term 3, with the Tjindu Foundation’s program officers supporting the delivery of a number of other programs in these remote areas.
Rigby Barnes, Wade Thompson and Serena Waters travelled to the APY Lands to deliver the Tjindu STRONG program which works with middle and senior years students to educate about culture, health and healthy lifestyles.
“The Tjindu STRONG team travelled to communities in Fregon, Mimili and Indulkana to deliver the program this term,” says Tjindu Foundation senior project officer Rigby Barnes.
“Here we spent afternoons delivering education modules, oral health, COVID-19 health and healthy lifestyle information to students, as well as outdoor activities.”
The Tjindu Foundation has also supported the delivery of the Anangu Junior Football League competition and local football carnivals for young people in the APY Lands this semester through the provision of boots, footballs and water bottles for players.
This culminated with the region’s traditional dance competition between children from the community that evening.
“It’s been great to get out and support communities through the Tjindu STRONG program,” says Barnes.
“It’s one of the best parts of our work, being able to connect with our friends in the APY Lands and work with schools, teachers and students to build upon the program’s values of Strength, Trust, Respect, No Shame, Optimism and Gratitude.”
In Term 4, the Tjindu Foundation will travel to assist with the Spinifex Carnival and will cover all costs for a combined Far West Coast and APY Lands team to play in the Nunga U17 Next Generation Carnival.
