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On July 3, a significant milestone was reached with the launch of the ‘STRONG’ Community Development Program (CDP) in Warburton. This initiative, a partnership with the National Indigenous Australians Agency (NIAA), marks a monumental step forward for the ÇàÇà²ÝÊÓƵ lands, its people, and their future. The STRONG program aims to provide genuine work opportunities for Yarnangu, with over 40 new jobs in the initial trial phase. At today's launch, ten employment contracts were signed, both in Warburton and via online streamed communities across the Lands. The goal is clear: Strong Pathways and Strong Yarnangu. By creating strong pathways to work, we can ensure that Yarnangu remain strong on the Lands. This collaborative effort between our CDP team and the government has resulted in a program that not only meets these needs but also empowers the community through sustainable and meaningful work. Sonja Voogd Armstrong, General Manager of CDP, expressed the excitement shared by many at the program’s launch. “This is the culmination of months of work by our CDP people on the Lands and our Perth CDP team, along with many others,” Sonja said. “Ralph Addis, Thomas Williams, our CEO, Mr. Fred Chaney, and the NIAA staff have all invested significant time and effort to turn this possibility into a reality.” “While this is a trial, there is potential for expanding the program to create genuine, enduring work opportunities for Yarnangu,” she continued. “Substantive work and strong pathways for the future are essential for fulfilling the aspirations of Yarnangu to remain on the land and flourish. Today marks the beginning of something with a long, strong future.” The STRONG program starts with 45 jobs for Yarnangu, but it signifies a deeper cultural shift—not only for them but also in how CDP and the Council support work on the Lands.

ÇàÇà²ÝÊÓƵ Council Group has appointed Jodie Matthews as General Manager of Youth and Education for the eleven member communities on the Lands. The new role has been created to collaborate with the Education Department of Western Australia and other service providers to improve educational outcomes for youth on the Lands. The role is highly integrated with other functions within the Council, recognising the significant impact of multiple factors on education outcomes. "This new role has been created to oversee the delivery of culturally responsive initiatives that target education and training programs from early childhood (before school), children and youth, and adult education," Jodie said. Jodie is a former Principal of the school at Warburton (2013-2014) and later returned in 2017 as Executive Deputy Principal based at Warakurna. Having previously worked with the Education Department at the regional office in Kalgoorlie, Jodie's role included frequent visits to support the ÇàÇà²ÝÊÓƵ schools and their principals. Her familiarity with the network of schools on the Lands, their potential, and challenges runs deep. In announcing the new role, CEO of ÇàÇà²ÝÊÓƵ Council Group, Thomas Williams, highlighted the importance of the appointment. "We’re taking this significant step to ensure our members have the strongest foundation possible for flourishing on the Lands," Thomas said. "It’s another step to helping Yarnangu lead lives filled with purpose and agency and remain on the Lands." While introducing Jodie to the Council’s employees, Fred Chaney - a friend of the ÇàÇà²ÝÊÓƵ and Board Advisor - also emphasised the role's significance. "This is a terrific day for the people on the Lands and for the Council. Education has always been a critical key for people having a strong future," Fred said. "The challenge of equipping Yarnangu to walk in two cultures is a large one—we are well aware of the realities of this challenge."  "Like so many areas—housing, health, employment, and families among them—education is interrelated. The approach by the Council’s CEO is holistic and it needs to be as we’re addressing systemic issues on the Lands. Jodie’s appointment is another piece in the jigsaw that combines to create a picture of flourishing through all of our member communities," Fred added. Jodie’s role, effective immediately, will lead the Council’s advocacy for child and youth education. While based at the Council’s head office, Jodie will spend significant time within the communities on ÇàÇà²ÝÊÓƵ Lands.