Health and Wellbeing

Health and Wellbeing

The CYGA Wellbeing Team lead by Karen, Jodi and Chase have welcomed new programs and new staff in 2021.

The five SEW (Social and Emotional Wellbeing) Programs offered through the Wellbeing Department are run by strong Indigenous women. They include the Culture Circle, Rhythm, Dance/Drama, Music and Deadly Choices (Healthy Lifestyles). The programs aim to support the girl’s holistic health and recognise the importance of relationships, connection to land, culture, spirituality and ancestry.

The Wellbeing Team are partners with external health care providers such as Ngak Min Health Service, Child Youth Mental Health Service, and Cairns Dental Boutique offering dental care, nursing, counselling, and year 12/13 transition support.

The girls have enjoyed their one-on-one sessions with Melissa Bann and Kerry Savory to help identify their own calming coping strategies to manage stress. They have completed their Winter School applications with Leigh Noremberczyk and now eagerly wait for a chance to experience University life during the school holidays. All the best girls!

Mama Coco Restaurant, Tanika Parker (CYGA Board Member), DIYDG - Deadly Indigenous Youth Doing Good, Dr Pastor Brian Lampton, Matthew Bowen (Rugby Player) are new connections in the local community.

The programs and services through the Wellbeing Department nurture healthy connections to the body, mind and culture in preparation for the girls learning in academic classes.

Staff and Students at Mama Coco’s Restaurant withspecial guest Tanika Parker – photo front right.

Karen Reys Wilson (Head of Wellbeing)

Jodi Howe (Wellbeing Support Officer)

Chase Walker (Wellbeing Support Officer) – photo centre back.Ena Waianga (Deadly Choices) – front right.

Staff and students farewell Kerry Savoy

Morning Dadirri (Deep Listening) – Who’s your Mob?

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Q & A WITH THE SENIOR STUDENTS

Q: How does the Wellbeing Team help you?

A: Achieve my goals and helps me finish my work. When I’m sick or home sick. Support me throughout my journey. Maybe get me a job with connections.

Q: How can you help yourself?

A: Say ‘no’ when necessary. Stay positive. Keep your head up. Don’t stress too much. Everything happens for a reason. Focus more on the positive rather than the negative. Be more interested and don’t over think. Trusting and believing in myself. Staying focussed and never giving up on my dreams. Using my voice and stay strong.

CALMING COPING STRATEGIES

LISTEN TO MUSIC

TALK ABOUT IT

DRAW A PICTURE

TAKE A DEEP BREATH

PLAY OUTSIDE

PRACTICE A HOBBY

SQUEEZE A STRESS BALL

WALK AWAY

COUNT TO 100

JOURNAL/ DIARY

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