This month has been filled with opportunities to gather, reflect, and grow. Here’s a look at how KARI connected culture and community throughout April.
Gwongubungga Swim Program – Gold Coast, QLD
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From the 8th to the 10th of April, the Gold Coast hosted 7 young learners at our Gwongubungga Swim Program—a name drawn from the Yugambeh word Guwang-gubunggah, meaning “Waterhole.”
The three-day experience combined practical water safety with cultural connection. With support from the Royal Life Saving Society Queensland and certified swimming instructors, participants engaged in pool sessions, creek swimming, and a day at the beach, all while embracing their culture through Country and water.
Backpack Deliveries for Kindy and High School Students – QLD
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Across Queensland, we continued our school backpack initiative.
Kindy students from Coomera Springs State School, St Francis Xavier Catholic School, Currumbin State School, Coolangatta State School, and Tweed Heads South Public School received backpacks filled with school essentials to help them start the year off strong.
Older students also received packs to support their high school learning journey. These small gestures go a long way in helping our young ones feel confident and equipped.
KARI’s Big Day Out at the Sydney Royal Easter Show!
Between 11th and 22nd April 2025, every household member in KARI’s OOHC program was offered a one-day ticket to experience the excitement of one of Sydney’s biggest annual events.
Families enjoyed a day full of rides, showbags, entertainment, and unforgettable memories — a beautiful reminder of the joy and connection that grows when our community comes together.
KARI is proud to continue creating opportunities like these, where our children, young people, and carers can share special moments and build lasting connections. Thank you to everyone who made KARI’s Big Day Out such a success!
Vacation Care Native Seedling Kits – East Coast
During the April school holidays, we distributed free Native Seedling Kits thanks to a collaboration with IndigiGrow.
First offered to our carer households, then extended to families across the eastern states, each kit included Ruby Saltbush, Rosella, and Wattle seeds, along with biodegradable pots and planting instructions.
It was a beautiful way to help families connect with nature, culture, and sustainability—all from home
Greater Western Sydney Opportunity Hub – Term 1 Highlights
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Term One saw students from across Greater Western Sydney engaging in a range of cultural, educational, and career-focused experiences.
Our first event in 2025 was the Yabun Festival, where the Opportunity Hub connected with community and young people through our popular spear-throwing inflatable.
Festivals of Football, hosted in partnership with KARI and Western Sydney Wanderers, promoted teamwork, sportsmanship, and cultural pride through soccer and interactive activities.
Students at Cranebrook High School took part in a cultural cooking session, preparing and sharing kangaroo and beef burgers while learning about traditional ingredients and bush tucker.
The Western Sydney International Airport 2025 Taking Off Program entered its second phase, with students participating in a session focused on goal setting and personal strengths.
At the Chifley College Bidwill Campus Careers Expo, over 500 students attended throughout the day. The Hub’s inflatable challenge was a hit, encouraging participation and career conversations.
During the school holidays, more than 60 students from PCYC Hawkesbury and Penrith came together for Nations of Origin Cultural Day—a celebration of cultural identity, connection, and community.
To round out the term, a mentoring session at Holy Spirit Catholic College Lakemba explored cultural identity, Country, and belonging. Students reflected on the meaning of respect in Aboriginal culture, shared their thoughts through group discussion, and created artwork symbolising a key word from their reflections.
Community Programs NSW Supporting All Ages
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April was a busy month for our Community Programs team, who worked across the South Coast, Liverpool, Campbelltown, Fairfield, and Bankstown regions delivering support and connection.
Mid-month, Elders in each of these areas received care hampers—a gesture of respect and gratitude for their continued guidance and presence in our communities.
The team also continued mentoring programs with young people, offering both employment preparation and support with driving lessons. In addition, our VIP Workshop 2 was held, giving high school participants another opportunity to build their performance skills, grow in confidence, and connect with their peers.
Unity Day QLD – Carrara Indoor Sports Stadium
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Unity Day on the Gold Coast was held on Wednesday 16th April and brought together families, culture, and community spirit under one roof.
The day featured an exciting reptile show by Wild Rangers and powerful cultural performances by the Biren Dance Group. Children enjoyed free rides, face painting, showbags, and craft markets, while families explored stalls that connected them with valuable community services. The event was hosted by beloved TV personality Luke Carroll, adding to the warmth and joy of the day.
UnityDay NSW – Whitlam Centre, Liverpool
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Just a week later, on Wednesday 23rd April, we came together again—this time in Liverpool for Unity Day NSW. The event welcomed 33 stallholders offering everything from health services to community programs.
Families enjoyed rides, delicious food, face painting, hair braiding, cultural markets, and performances from our VIP Program participants and the KARI Singers. A Didgeridoo Stripping Race added a unique cultural highlight, while Luke Carroll once again brought the energy as MC.
Thank you to so much everyone who joined us throughout April.
