BHP is working with Martu organisation Kanyirninpa Jukurrpa (KJ) to reconnect Martu Youth with Country through the Yiwarra Kuju Jijiku program.

Our $1.5 million three-year partnership focuses on strengthening community connection, increasing self-reliance, mental health and wellbeing for Martu youth through extensive stays on country.

KJ Executive Director Peter Johnson explained that over the past few years, a number of the young Martu people have been involved in anti-social behaviours.

“In the communities, Martu have said that this problem can only be fixed the Martu way – by taking the kids out on country, teaching them and looking after them,” Peter said.

The program, which started last year, teaches children cultural knowledge such as waterholes, family trees, country, language, social obligations, kinship roles and Martu history.

They learn about the country they are visiting, which families are connected to it, the birds and animals, the plants and food, where pujiman walked.

“They are together, experiencing what is really important. Yiwarra Kuju Jijiku has just started. But it is pointing the way – a new way of helping kids who are getting into trouble. This way is Martu way, and it works for Martu kids,” Peter explained.

Newman Operations General Manager Dan Heal said the partnership with KJ played an important role in helping Martu retain a strong Martu identity, social stability and resilience to face increasing social and developmental pressures.

“Supporting our community and working with KJ towards a common purpose is exciting, and something I’m really looking forward to growing here in Newman,” Dan said.