Key milestones keep coming for cape communities

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Key milestones keep coming for Cape communities

Cape leadership workshop participants. Image supplied

by Office of Member for Cook 4 December 2013

K

ey milestones and positive changes keep coming for Cape York communities thanks to a community collaboration that has identified economic development and as community growth as the key drivers of the future. David Kempton, Member for Cook and Assistant Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs claims a string of successful community engagement workshops were contributing to a renewed outlook for the Cape’s indigenous population which deserve a fresh approach from State and Federal Governments.

“Last week we saw the Whole of Community Change (WOCC) program kick off in Mapoon inspired by the great results recently in both Aurukun and Napranum,” he said. “It comes less than a fortnight after the 50 year commemoration of the forced removal from Mapoon, where our Government announced $2 million in funding for the community to build new houses in recognition of those burned down on that fateful day.” Mr Kempton said the new, collaborative approach from Cape councils, communities, government and service providers was all part of the push to “build capability and normalise” communities enabling them to participate in a real

economy. “I have been really encouraged by the great progress we are continuing to see in these areas, a new and positive direction is opening up for the people due to support from Government rather than intervention and implementation “ he said. “It is clear the top down, expensive approach of the past decades has failed.” The latest WOCC program, facilitated and designed by Annalise Jennings of Dynamic Exchange, began with community engagement of over 50 community members and service providers. “Last week the Leaders Collaboration Worksho” in Weipa participants worked together to

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outline community values, a vision statement and an action plan comprising more than 50 new ideas identified from feedback sessions involving over 80 people,” Ms Jennings said. “Themes of economy, environment, family, culture and unity were all addressed to ensure a sustainable and engaged community...key values identified included ownership, community engagement, working together, accountability and positive attitudes.” She said the new vision statement “Mapoon...Strength through...Pride: Family: Culture: Unity” reflected the “positive new mindset” emerging in the Cape communities. “Mapoon is now the fourth community to embrace the WOCC program which is based on the principle that economic development and spiritual growth are interdependent,” Ms Jennings said. “The program positions ownership and accountability solely with the community, with government and service providers providing support - not implementation.” Mr Kempton said the feedback from participants from all programs so far had once again, been purely positive. Mayor Peter Guiverra described the work as a “plan for future generations.” His brother and fellow Councilor Ricky Guivarra said “I have learnt how to refocus on the probable

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Member for Cook, Hon David Kempton.

and positive away from existing problems and band aid solutions. We have forged a better and brighter future.” Mr Kempton said the programs had been carefully crafted after extensive engagement to ensure they reflected the priorities of each

community and that ownership of the future plan stays with the people. “Finally all governments have a clear indication from the communities how they see their own futures,” he said.


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