Aboriginal Mens Group Grafton

Supporting men, working towards a happier and healthier Clarence Valley community. Meets each Thursday for a BBQ breakfast and Yarning Circle.

Aboriginal Mens Group Grafton was founded in 2001. On 9th November 2017, the Group voted and changed it's name to Aboriginal Mens Group Grafton. The Group became incorporated on 11th March 2015 and received confirmation of ABN on 28th May 2015. The Group supports men and families from the Bundjalung, Gumbaynggirr and Yaegl nations who are dealing with issues of a personal nature as well as community-wide concerns. In 2011, the Group was opened up to all participants to address issues in common with all social agencies and to contribute towards better community relations and outcomes, including employment pathways and a sense of inclusion.

Many of the issues addressed by the Group relate to various types of addiction, including drug abuse and gambling, juvenile crime and mental health. The group organises a weekly breakfast BBQ at 50 Wharf Street, South Grafton. The group sessions incorporate a 'Yarning Circle' where participants engage in discussions and formulate action plans based on either individual needs or community issues. The Group has forged strong links with medical and legal service providers (AMS & ALS), The Grafton and District Services Club (GDSC), employment agencies (Chess & EPIC), and a range of social and commercial sponsors.

Fundraising is currently conducted by undertaking sausage sizzle events at Bunnings and during NAIDOC week and other community events. Donations and support in kind (eg; provisions for BBQ & signage) is canvassed through local businesses (eg; GDSC, Valley Signs, Billy's Water Carting & Mindfulness Coach). The Group has recently received funding to purchase and fit out a multi-purpose trailer with suitable equipment, appropriate catering and communication technology and signage to reach the following target audiences: 1. Youth activities and sporting events 2. Outreach into community neighbourhoods 3. Crime prevention and visits to Juvenile Justice 4. Addiction recovery, educational and diversion activities