As Reconciliation Week reminds us of the importance of walking together with respect, May has been a powerful month of connection across our programs and communities. From new beginnings like our Liverpool playgroup launch to meaningful cultural experiences, inspiring youth performances, and community events across Queensland and NSW, we’ve seen firsthand the strength that comes from coming together.
Read on to see how we’ve been celebrating culture, creating opportunities, and building relationships throughout the month.
Playgroup Launch Liverpool
. 
. 
We’re excited to share that our new Friday morning playgroup officially launched this month at our Liverpool office—with a fantastic first session! We welcomed 12 children and their parents for a morning filled with connection, creativity, and fun.
So far this term the mums, dads and little ones explored nature through hands-on activities, had a yarn with some elders and even made special crafts for Mothers day.
More than just play, this group is about creating a space where families can come together, build relationships, and grow alongside one another.
Mob Making a Splash Launches in South East Queensland
. 
. 
We’re proud to announce the official launch of our Mob Making a Splash program in South East Queensland on 8 May! Held at the Southport Yacht Club in Hollywell, the event brought together community members and guests to celebrate this exciting milestone.
With canapés, conversation, and a strong sense of purpose in the room, the launch marked the beginning of a powerful new opportunity for Aboriginal jobseekers to step into the aquatic and recreation industry.
Do you know anyone in SEQ who would benefit from this program? Contact lyle.sansbury@kari.org.au.
This This Indigenous Workforce and Skills Development Grant project is proudly funded by the Queensland Government.
Queensland Corporate Golf Day
. 
On 9 May, we enjoyed a spectacular day on the green for our Queensland Corporate Golf Day.
The event brought together community partners and supporters for a day filled with great energy, big swings, and shared purpose.
It was all about good vibes, great people and raising awareness for the work we do in community.
We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who took part and made it such a memorable day. We’re already looking forward to doing it all again!
Aboriginal Education & Employment Expo
. 
. 
Our 2025 KARI Aboriginal Education & Employment Expo was a huge success, bringing together students, stallholders, educators and employers for a day full of inspiration and opportunity.
The event was buzzing with excitement as young people explored career pathways, connected with potential employers, and celebrated cultural identity. It was a powerful reminder of the bright future ahead for our youth and the importance of supporting them every step of the way.
A heartfelt thank you goes out to everyone who contributed to making the day so special. We’re already planning for an even bigger and better event in 2026.
Wanderers Primary School Soccer Clinic
. 
. 
KARI hosted a fantastic soccer skills clinic in partnership with Western Sydney Wanderers at the WSW Fives facility.
The primary school students who attended threw themselves into a day full of energy and fun, from skills drills to action-packed games. Alongside the football, they participated in cultural activities that celebrated community and brought everyone together.
Each child went home with a special KARI x WSWFC cap and drink bottle and plenty of great memories.
JCDecaux – Cultural Art Workshop
. 
. 
On 14 May, our Cultural Unit had the honour of facilitating a cultural art workshop with the team at JCDecaux in their Sydney office.
Through guided storytelling and creative expression, staff members decorated handprints with designs that reflected their personal stories, inspired by the long-standing traditions of Aboriginal art as a form of storytelling and connection.
As each group shared their stories, the room was filled with moments of courage, creativity, and shared humanity.
Feedback from the session was overwhelmingly positive, with many describing it as a powerful and unforgettable experience. A special thank you to JCDecaux for embracing the opportunity and to Troy and our Cultural Unit for delivering such a meaningful session.
TDG Engaging with Culture
. 
. 
]
To mark Reconciliation Week, our Cultural Unit spent 29 May with the team at TDG Environmental. Led by KARI’s Head of Cultural Engagement, Troy Dargan, and the men from the Cultural Unit, the day was a meaningful celebration of culture and connection.
Guests took part in a smoking ceremony before trying their hand at spear throwing with a woomera and boomerang throwing. This was followed by a cultural talk, where Troy shared stories and explained the significance of artefacts from his personal collection. The day wrapped up with traditional fire-starting activities—and a tasty lunch enjoyed by all.
It was a reminder of the importance of reconciliation and the collective role we each play in shaping a more inclusive future.
Want to bring this experience to your workplace or event?
Reach out to our Cultural Unit at culture@kari.org.au to learn more.
Greater Western Sydney Opportunity Hub
. 
. 
May was a vibrant and busy month for the Opportunity Hub team, with students taking part in a range of events that celebrated culture, sport, learning, and leadership.
From attending the KARI Employment Expo to supporting our student leaders in the Peter Mulholland Cup rugby league match, the month was packed with moments of pride. Students also enjoyed a hands-on soccer clinic with the Western Sydney Wanderers, showcased traditional dance at school events, and participated in cultural celebrations for Reconciliation Week.
Practical learning sessions, like our workshop on car ownership and online safety with NSW Fair Trading and NRMA, rounded out a month full of opportunity, connection and growth.
The Greater Western Sydney Opportunity Hub is Funded by the NSW Government.
Vocal Identification Program Performance
. 
. 
This month saw the wonderful conclusion of our 21st year of the Vocal Identification Program, where our talented students showcased everything they’ve worked so hard to achieve.
Over the past few weeks in the VIP workshops, these young performers have not only developed their vocal and performance skills but also built strong connections with one another and a deeper understanding of their culture.
On 30 May, they came together for a powerful final performance at Casula Powerhouse, cheered on by their families, friends, and KARI staff.
It was a truly moving event, filled with pride and joy, and we are so proud to support this program year after year.
Thank you to everyone who has walked alongside us this month whether through playgroup, performance, sport, or shared learning. Your continued support helps us strengthen culture, build opportunity and celebrate community in everything we do.
