This story was submitted as part of FRRR’s 25th birthday celebrations.
“We feel very grateful to have had the support of FRRR and for the work it does in generating and distributing financial support for regional organisations and communities.”
Natalie Woods, Grants and Fundraising Coordinator
“We have been fortunate to receive a number of grants through FRRR. In 2024, a Strengthening Rural Communities grant enabled us to provide six weeks of meal support to 10 Indigenous mothers and their families, relieving the financial burden and stress of the postpartum period, while also nourishing mother and baby and creating a strong health foundation. In the same year, an ABC Heywire grant supported the establishment of a pilot program to take disengaged high school Indigenous girls out of the classroom and out on Country once a week for eight weeks. The girls reconnected to Country, culture and community, learning about their traditional bush foods, how to grow them and how to cook them. This pilot program has gone on to be funded for 2025 and 2026, thanks to the early support of FRRR. In 2025, a grant from the In A Good Place program will support the delivery of four Indigenous Health and Wellbeing Community Days, providing free resources and support for maintaining good physical and mental health.
“Without this funding, we would not have been able to get both our Indigenous Postpartum Care Program and our pilot Doobai Youth Bush Food Program off the ground. We’re grateful for the trust that FRRR shows in us and the belief in our programs and the impact we have for our local Indigenous community here on Bundjalung Country (Northern NSW).”
The Returning Indigenous Corporation’s vision for the future
“In 2050, we hope we have a strong and resilient community on Bundjalung Country – where all people, Indigenous and non-Indigenous, are connected to Country, connected to each other and living healthy and resilient lives. We hope that the roles of women and mothers are valued and supported, and that our Matriarch Elders are given the support and care they deserve. We hope that everyone has access to strong local food systems, clean water and fresh air, and that our community has the strong social networks to support each other through times of disaster and crisis.”