Ringbalin is a Ngarrindjeri word for ceremony, and the Ringbalin Camp provided an important opportunity for Aboriginal young people from residential care to connect and find strength and healing in culture. During the camp, seven Aboriginal young people heard stories, were taught how to make traditional tools and weapons, explored native traditional foods, danced by the fire and learned the stories behind the dancing.

The Ringbalin Camp is a reflection of DCP’s commitment to honour the Aboriginal Child Placement Principle. YARS’ work closely aligns with the implementation of the Eight Sanctuary Commitments (Commitment 8: Culture Underpins All That We Do) under the trauma-informed Sanctuary model within DCP residential care.

On the return journey to Adelaide, the group travelled to Raukkan and received a private tour through the gallery. The young people were interested to see the cultural artefacts, pictures and paintings and look through the names and photos on the wall to find surnames that they recognised.

Feedback from the young people showed they greatly valued the opportunity to learn from Uncle Moogy and the next Ringbalin Camp in its planning stage.

The YARS team looks forward to further partnering with Aboriginal communities in order to support Aboriginal children and young people in residential care to connect to culture and find strength in their spiritual identity.