We Grow Them Up

Early childhood service providers from across the East Arnhem region met in Nhulunbuy during National Families Week for the We Grow Them Up Learning Forum. The forum celebrates and showcases collaborative approaches and culturally meaningful, locally based early childhood, children’s and family support initiatives.

Over three days, almost 80 delegates shared updates on the place-based resources and practices they use to support local children and families Their stories highlighted the key role that families play in maintaining community and personal wellbeing, reinforcing the National Families Week enduring theme of ‘Stronger Families, Stronger Communities’.

The forum demonstrated a true commitment to cultural inclusivity, with sessions conducted in Yolngu Matha, Kriol, Anindilyakwa, Wuybuy and English.

Updates and learnings were shared by East Arnhem Children’s Services, East Arnhem Regional Council, Family as First Teachers, Families & Schools Together, Intensive Family Preservation Service, Miwatj Health Aboriginal Corporation, Playgroup NT, Connected Beginnings and NAPCAN. Delegates from Stronger Communities for Children programs in Ngukurr and Galiwin’ku presented models of organisational partnership and two-way learning.

Members of the Rirratjingu Aboriginal Corporation welcomed delegates to Country with a Bungul Ceremony. They ended the ceremony with a powerful statement recognising recent community events: “Though we are full of grief and sorrow, we are strong and together we stand.”