Wednesday, March 18, 2026

1:30 PM - 2:10 PM

Adelaide Oval - Leigh Whicker room

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Overview

Presented by: Aunty Dionne Heinemann, Program Coordinator, Lisa Besant, Women's Safety Contact Worker Aunty Vicki Dodd, Womens Practitioner KWY Aboriginal Corporation

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Details

Aboriginal women from Port Augusta working with KWY will present on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women’s healing programs and events designed to support wellbeing through yarning, art, and culturally grounded healing practices. These programs incorporate Narrative Therapy responses, including visits on Country, to strengthen connection, identity, and healing. Presenters will share insights into the profound impacts these therapeutic approaches have had on their work with women in the Port Augusta community. Drawing on over eight years of practice, they will highlight how culturally responsive and trauma-informed approaches have supported women to re-engage with education and employment, navigate safer relationships, and prioritise the safety and wellbeing of themselves and their children. The session will showcase a range of healing events and initiatives delivered in recent years that have emerged from the strength of this community-led work. These activities have created meaningful opportunities for healing, reflection, and growth. Women who have participated in the programs have expressed deep pride in their journeys and the personal transformation they have experienced while working with KWY. This presentation will demonstrate how culturally grounded therapeutic practices can foster healing, strengthen resilience, and empower women to share their stories, celebrate their achievements, and continue building confidence within safe and supportive community environments.