Earlier this month, the Nallei Jerring program visited the CDC Victoria head office and Edmund Rice Centre in Truganina as part of an off-site excursion.

Participants learned about employment pathway opportunities thanks to presenting partner CDC Victoria, before engaging in a high ropes course which aimed to build teamwork and confidence.

An important aspect of the day was also recognising and connecting to country.

Program facilitator, and proud Palawa and Wiradjuri woman Marayne Muller, said it was a great experience for the group.

“It’s about getting young people together to come together and be exposed to role models and leaders in the community,” Muller said.

“Through this experience, the young people are able to build a bond and build more of a friendship, and to be able to break down the challenges that arise – by doing a high ropes course, they’re able to feel a sense of accomplishment and empowerment.”

Participant Amber also shared what she enjoyed most about the day.

“I enjoyed doing the ropes course because it was about different levels of confidence, and starting where you feel comfortable and slowly building your way up to getting better and better at it,” she said.

“It’s helped build up my confidence and made me feel more capable of doing stuff. It’s shown me what I want to do in my future and what I want to be involved in.”

Facilitated through the Western Bulldogs Community Foundation, the Nallei Jerring program is aimed at Indigenous youth aged between 13 and 15 years old.

The purpose of the program is to provide opportunities through the Western Bulldogs as a way of encouraging leadership within the local Aboriginal community.  

CDC Victoria is the Presenting Partner of the Nallei Jerring program, alongside Associate Partner Victoria Responsible Gambling Foundation and Community Foundation Major Partner WorkSafe Victoria.