Girlz Talk, Boyz Talk, Menz Talk, Womenz Talk in the Hunter region

The Mums Against Drugs (M.A.D.) Community Drug Action Team is developing a series of camps, workshops and gatherings with elders on alcohol and drug related issues aimed primarily, but not exclusively, at the Aboriginal community.

How did the group form?

The Mums Against Drugs (M.A.D.) Community Drug Action Team was formed when a local child received a needle stick injury. Mothers from the Department of Housing estate at Bolton Ponit met to take action on drugs and alcohol. The women planned community initiatives to reduce drug-related harm and as a first project were involved in the production of a pamphlet on needle stick injury which they circulate throughout the community.

What do the mums expect to do?

The mums have a vision to educate the community on how to minimise the harm caused in the community by drugs and alcohol. They have received funding to conduct a series of camps, workshops and gatherings for the community. The project is aimed primarily, but not exclusively at the local Aboriginal community, where misuse of alcohol and other drugs is an issue or may become an issue.

The plan for the first workshop?

Planning is underway and the first workshop is to be held on the weekend of the 12^th to 14^th November 2004. Mothers and their children will spend the weekend at Myuna Bay and several experts will present to the group and answer their questions. Elders will be invited to spend time with the group and the weekend will also provide a great opportunity for the community to bond.

What follows the first workshop?

The second workshop will involve fathers and their children and the third workshop will be specifically for teenagers.

Following the three workshops the final activity will be a large “Gathering”. Participates will be able to share their experience with many other members of the community that were unable to attend the workshops.

For further information

Contact	:	Daniella Chedzey
Phone	:	43 598709
Mobile	:	0431 373751
Email	:	mums_against_drugs@yahoo.com.au