This month, we’re proud to share stories that highlight the strength of culture, the power of connection, and the impact of opportunity.
From The Cultural Unit’s inspiring cultural workshops to the vibrancy of Indigenous Round, and from our youth programs to national business engagement at Supply Nation Connect, August was filled with moments that brought community and culture to the forefront. Here’s a look at what we’ve been up to.
Impactful Cultural Sessions
. In early August, Troy Dargan led heartfelt workshops with students involved in the Connor Watson Foundation. The day began with a traditional smoking ceremony, setting the tone for cultural connection and meaning. Each student then painted a pair of boots, which were gifted to the Roosters players, symbolising creativity, community, and Indigenous heritage.
The students were also treated to a lunch and guided tour of Allianz Stadium, offering an immersive experience into the world of professional sport. The following day, Troy facilitated a parallel session with the Roosters NRLW squad, ensuring the same cultural integration and connection for female players.
Later in August, the Cultural Unit also facilitated a Cultural Mental Health and Cultural Connection Workshop at Optus, supporting CP and working with approximately 40 students from five different schools, Ashcroft High, Wyong High, Miller Technology High, All Saints Catholic College, and Kingswood High, alongside Optus mentors. This was the third workshop of its kind delivered this year, continuing our commitment to meaningful engagement and cultural education for young people.
Book a cultural experience at your workplace or event.
Indigenous Round & Gadhu Gathering (15–17 August)
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The Cultural Unit initiatives formed part of the broader Indigenous Round festivities and the inaugural Gadhu Gathering festival, held from Friday 15 to Sunday 17 August at Allianz Stadium.
This three‑day celebration united community, culture, and competition through multiple matches, ceremonies, and performances.
On Friday night, the Roosters hosted the Bulldogs with KARI Foundation as the official match-day partner. The historic evening was elevated by the KARI singers, who performed John Farnham’s iconic anthem “You’re the Voice” in language, delivering a deeply moving cultural moment.
Greater Western Sydney Opportunity Hub – August Highlights
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Warm Damper and Strong Connections at Richmond High School
On Tuesday 19 August, students at Richmond High School took part in a hands-on cultural cooking session as part of our Greater Western Sydney Opportunity Hub program.
With the weather turning chilly, the group gathered to cook traditional damper, which made for a perfect afternoon tea treat. The session sparked great conversation, teamwork, and plenty of smiles, all while keeping warm with something delicious they’d made themselves.
Chifley College Bidwill Campus Then on Thursday 21 August, students from Chifley College Bidwill Campus proudly received their brand-new Opportunity Hub shirts and hoodies. The new gear not only keeps them warm, but also helps foster a sense of pride and belonging as they continue to engage with the program and build their futures.
The Greater Western Sydney Opportunity Hub is funded by the NSW Government
KARI Foundation at Supply Nation Connect 2025
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On Thursday 21 August, KARI Foundation proudly exhibited at Supply Nation Connect 2025, Australia’s largest Indigenous business trade show and networking event.
The event brought together Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses, corporate organisations, and government departments, all committed to creating opportunities, building relationships, and celebrating the strength of the Indigenous business sector.
Representing both KARI Foundation and KARI Aboriginal Procurement, our team showcased the depth of our services, from cultural programs to commercial partnerships, with a strong focus on community impact and procurement capability.
A highlight was the generous support of Sharp, who provided a large digital screen to help us promote our programs and procurement offerings. This powerful visual presence helped draw attendees to our stand and amplify our message.
Cultural activations included:
- A live didgeridoo stripping demonstration by Blake Ralph, showcasing traditional craftsmanship
- A weaving demonstration by Colleen Fricker, Community Programs Manager, offering an interactive cultural experience
- Cultural flavours prepared by Brendan Lee, Manager of Cultural Care Planning and talented chef, who delighted visitors with bush-inspired cuisine
It was a vibrant day of connection and cultural pride—reinforcing KARI’s continued leadership in both the Indigenous business landscape and community-focused service delivery.
Email kap@kari.org.au to find out about KARI Aboriginal Procurement.
Training the Next Generation of Tidda Talk Facilitators
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Each Tidda Talk cycle runs over eight weeks, with 90-minute sessions that blend sport and movement with psychosocial education. Girls spend the first half of each session engaging in physical activities and games, before sitting down together for guided conversations around topics such as emotional regulation, communication, conflict resolution, and building respectful relationships.
Research conducted by the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) has shown strong evidence of the program’s impact. Participants consistently report feeling happier, more confident, fitter, and more connected to their culture. Many also describe improved relationships with peers, greater emotional awareness, and a stronger sense of belonging and engagement at school and in sport.
By training a new cohort of facilitators, KARI is continuing to grow the reach and influence of Tidda Talk, ensuring more young Aboriginal girls feel seen, supported, and proud of who they are.
Interested? Find out about Tidda Talk Facilitator training by emailing colleen.fricker@kari.org.au
QLD Upcoming Intake: Mob Making a Splash
KARI Foundation, in partnership with Royal Life Saving Queensland, is excited to announce the next intake of our Mob Making a Splash program starting 21 October.
This free, accredited training program runs 2 days a week for 3 weeks and provides participants with:
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Nationally recognised qualifications (including CPR, First Aid, Bronze Medallion, Pool Lifeguard and Swim Teacher Accreditation)
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Practical, hands-on training
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Personalised 1-1 mentoring from an Aboriginal Career Pathway Specialist
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Ongoing cultural and job-ready support
Morning tea, lunch, a program T-shirt, rashie and towel are provided, and transport can be arranged if needed. This program is designed to create real pathways into employment, helping participants gain the skills, confidence and support to step straight into the workforce.
This Indigenous Workforce and Skills Development Grant project is proudly funded by the Queensland Government.
To find out more contact:
📞 1800 966 032
📧 communityprogramsqld@kari.org.au
Whether you joined us at an event, supported a program, or simply took a moment to connect with our stories, your presence matters. Each step we take is made stronger by community. We look forward to sharing more in the months to come as we continue to celebrate culture, empower Aboriginal families and young people, and create lasting impact.
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