Reggie and Ronald’s rise to success through connection and local support
Reggie and Ronald have recently been kicking goals with the support our team who deliver the Transition to Work program.
Transition to Work Read more
The Weaving Yarns Women’s Group, held on Tuesdays at 10 am at our Warakirri Hub, offers a culturally safe space for First Nations women to connect, share stories and knowledge, and take part in meaningful activities. Funded by the Maranguka Hub, Weaving Yarns brings women together to strengthen community and culture.
At the heart of Weaving Yarns is sharing knowledge and nurturing connection – whether it be through yarning, weaving, digital activities, or a warm, hearty lunch cooked by Grace Milgate and Shaylee Kelly.
Grace and Shaylee from our team work tirelessly to create a safe and welcoming environment for the women to walk into, ensuring a comfortable space to yarn and connect with one another.
What began as a small social group to discuss women’s business and craft has grown into a vibrant space to exchange knowledge between elders and the next generation.
The group also plays an important role in closing the digital divide; in a relaxed and informal setting, women gain confidence in online shopping, setting up and managing email accounts, and navigating smartphones and laptops.
The women who participate in Weaving Yarns also have a wealth of knowledge of their own that they share with our staff. Most notably is the deeply culturally significant practice of weaving.
For generations, weaving has served many spiritual and practical purposes for First Nations peoples, being utilised to craft baskets, nets, and clothing, and intrinsically linked to storytelling and passing knowledge through the generations.
From the very first session, where Grace herself had no idea how to weave, to today, she now sits side by side with the women, proudly creating woven baskets of her own.
As well as weaving, the women share skills in crochet, knitting, embroidery, and macramé, and create jewelry from traditional materials such as emu feathers and quandong seeds.
The impact of Weaving Yarns is felt not only by participants but also by the staff who help bring it to life. For Grace and Shaylee, running the group has deepened their own connection to culture, community, and country.
“I’ve gained a deeper understanding of culture and connection by getting to know these women, hearing their stories, and taking on their advice,” Grace Milgate, Warakirri Hub Coordinator, said.
This incredible group has woven together a rich tapestry of tradition, technology and trust that empowers all who walk through the doors.
About the Warakirri Hub
The Warakirri Hub, operated by Bamara, is made possible through the Indigenous Skills and Employment Program (ISEP), funded by the National Indigenous Australians Agency (NIAA).
Through ISEP, the Australian Government is working in partnership with communities to connect First Nations people to jobs, career advancement opportunities, new training, and job-ready activities.
