Building Future Leaders: A Powerful Girls Camp on Worimi Country
Sixteen young women from Deadly Youth, Nanga Mai Marri, and the Liverpool Opportunity Hub recently took part in a transformative Girls Leadership and Cultural Camp held at Middle Rock Ingenia Holiday Park on the beautiful Worimi Country. The theme for the April camp, Her Legacy, Her Leadership, encouraged participants to honour the women, matriarchs, and ancestors who came before them, while stepping confidently into their own leadership journeys. Throughout the camp, the girls shared stories and expressed gratitude for the strong women in their lives who have helped shape them into the young leaders they are today.
The journey began on Tuesday, with participants travelling to Salamander Bay for a swim and lunch by the water. After arriving at their accommodation, the group settled in before kicking off the camp with a lively photo scavenger hunt. Filled with laughter, teamwork, and a touch of friendly competition, it set the tone for connection and bonding. The evening wrapped up with a BBQ dinner and a fun games night, complete with plenty of snacks.
Bailey Blades, Participant“Camp was a place where stories were shared, friendships were built, and leaders began to grow. My favourite part of the camp was getting to watch the Sunrise on our last day with all of my new friends and getting to share that amazing experience as a group of strong young Aboriginal women”.
Day two began with a hearty breakfast of bacon and egg rolls before heading to the Murrook Cultural Centre. Here, the girls deepened their understanding of the local area and culture. They participated in a beading workshop, sharing yarns and stories about their families, followed by a dance workshop where they learned traditional dances from the local community. After lunch, the group took on the Tomaree Head Summit walk, rewarded at the top with breathtaking coastal views and fresh sea air. The day concluded with a delicious dinner at Salamander Bay Hotel, where the girls continued to connect and strengthen friendships.
The final day began with a pancake breakfast and a reflection session, where each participant shared what they had learned and gained from the experience. Their words highlighted growth, confidence, and a deeper sense of identity and connection. On the journey home, the group made one last stop for an exciting go-karting experience in the Hunter Valley, giving everyone a chance to tap into their inner racer and end the camp on a high-energy note.
Mel Taufa, DYMP Mentor“Being part of this camp was a powerful experience. To walk alongside these young women on Country and see them connect with culture, identity, and each other was truly special. The theme Her Legacy, Her Leadership came to life as the girls reflected on the strength of the women who came before them and recognised that same strength within themselves. It was an honour to hold space for their growth and witness the next generation of strong, proud leaders”.
As the camp came to a close, the girls expressed their gratitude for the opportunity, the memories created, and the new friendships formed along the way, leaving inspired, empowered, and ready to lead.
