Workshop and Cultural Cruise
Friday | 7 August
Healthy Body and Mind through Connection to Culture, Country and Community
Connection to Country, culture and community is an integral aspect of mental, spiritual and physical wellness for many First Nations people. Culturally meaningful activities can provoke mindfulness and help to process trauma. Facilitating opportunities to connect to Country and culture are an important aspect of many grassroots health promotion programs, and it is similarly important for health workers to take the time to draw strength from their culture and communities.
That is why this year, the Indigenous Healthcare forum workshop day will move through a meaningful sequence of community and cultural connection activities including:
Ngarraangiya: Healing & Cleansing Through Connection to the Elements
This experiential workshop invites participants to reconnect with the healing wisdom of Country through the elements of earth, water, fire, and air. Guided by Aunty Sylvia Campbell, participants will explore traditional Aboriginal understandings of wellbeing, grounding, cleansing, and renewal. Through cultural practices, storytelling, reflection, and connection to Country, the session creates a space for participants to strengthen their social and emotional wellbeing, restore balance, and deepen their connection to self, community, and spirit.
Facilitator: Aunty Sylvia Campbell
Organisation: Barrmarrany
Nation: Gumbaynggirr
Movement, Ceremony & Yidaki Healing
Led by Ivan Morris, this powerful workshop explores the role of movement, culture, ceremony, and the Yidaki in supporting healing and wellbeing. Participants will engage in culturally grounded practices that promote connection, resilience, emotional regulation, and self-awareness. Drawing on lived experience and cultural knowledge, Ivan creates an interactive and uplifting space where participants can experience the healing power of rhythm, movement, breath, and cultural expression as pathways to wellbeing and recovery.
Facilitator: Ivan Morris
Organisation: Stompbriety
Nation: Gumbaynggirr / Dhungutti
Mindfulness & Healing Through Art
This creative and reflective workshop explores art as a pathway to healing, mindfulness, and self-expression. Facilitated by Taylor Edwards, participants will engage in guided art-based activities that encourage presence, reflection, emotional awareness, and connection to culture. No artistic experience is required. Through creativity and storytelling, participants will explore strengths, identity, and personal healing while experiencing the therapeutic benefits of slowing down, being present, and connecting with themselves in a culturally safe and supportive environment.
Facilitator: Taylor Edwards
Organisation: Banksia Healing
Nation: Gamilaraay / Gia Ngaro / Birri Gubba
Followed by Tribal Warrior’s cultural cruise around Sydney Harbour. This is a great way to consolidate what you have learned at the two-day forum, and to continue networking with your peers in a more relaxed and intimate setting.
Learning objectives
Experience the healing that being on Country facilitates
Equip yourself with grounding exercises and healing tools to incorporate into your own practice and share with your community
Understand the cultural significance of the local land
Consolidate and put into practice your learnings from the forum in a hands-on setting
Workshop Agenda
9:00
10:30
11:00
12:00
1:00
2:00
5:00
Workshop rotation: Mindfulness & Healing Through Art; Movement, Ceremony & Yidaki Healing; Healing & Cleansing Through Connection to the Elements
Morning tea
Yarning circle reflection
Lunch
Bus departure for Circular Quay
Tribal Warrior Cultural Cruise
Explore Sydney Harbour through Aboriginal eyes
As you cruise the world’s most beautiful harbour, you’ll hear captivating stories of the Gadigal, Guringai, Wangal, Gammeraigal, and Wallumedegal people, the original custodians of the lands surrounding Sydney. Learn the Aboriginal names and deep cultural meanings behind significant Sydney landmarks, enriching your understanding of this iconic city.
Cruise concludes, bus back to venue