An intergenerational project for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders and young people in Cairns is set to benefit from $70,000 funding under the second tranche of the Thriving Cohesive Communities grants.
Minister for Communities Coralee O'Rourke today (24 August) met with representatives from the Gimuy Walubara Yidinji Elders Aboriginal Corporation in Cairns to announce that their Infinity 2020: Cycle of Knowledge project is one of 15 projects across the state that will share in close to $2 million under the second tranche of the Palaszczuk Government's Thriving Cohesive Communities grants.
"This project is an example of a community coming together to build social cohesion, and show how united, harmonious and inclusive we are as Queenslanders," Mrs O'Rourke said.
"Through this funding, Gimuy Walubara Yidinji Elders Aboriginal Corporation will be able to actively engage with Elders and young people here in Cairns, providing an intergenerational connection and building mentor and leadership skills.
"Activities delivered through this project include educational and cultural workshops and events that will help Elders and young people increase confidence in their identity and challenge racism and discrimination.
"The project will also include on-country tour pilot programs with Yidinji Elders and trainees.
"We know how important it is to engage with young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and to connect them with country and Elders."
The second tranche of the Thriving Cohesive Communities grants follows on from the successful first tranche, which provided a total of $930,000 to 16 projects across Queensland.
Mrs O'Rourke said the grants aimed to make Queensland communities safer by ensuring Queenslanders of all ages and backgrounds are accepted and respected, and can make a valued and positive contribution.
"Through these projects we want to positively engage with Queenslanders, particularly young people and those from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and multicultural backgrounds," she said.
"Projects funded through the second tranche of the Thriving Cohesive Communities grants will be delivered in line with the latest health advice regarding COVID-19."
