The Bedford Downs Stock Route Walk

A  Transformative Initiative for At-Risk Youth

The Bedford Downs Stock Route Walk is an initiative aimed at breaking the cycle of offending behaviour in the Kimberley and improving community safety. By providing at-risk youth with a transformative experience that reconnects them with Country through culturally safe intervention, the program has successfully been established as an alternative sentencing option. Its goal is to reduce the number of young people entering the correctional system by showcasing the positive contributions these individuals can make to their communities.

The program is led by local Aboriginal elders and traditional owners, who serve as role models and share cultural knowledge to build resilience from within. It comprises two annual walks - one for a male group and one for a female group - each consisting of up to 20 youth grouped by age. They are supported by 15 trained crew members who provide guidance and expertise throughout the journey. The initiative takes place along the historic 126-kilometre Bedford Stock Route, beginning at Bedford Downs Station, and is designed to foster physical, emotional, and cultural well-being.

 

Walking the path to change

On 8th August 2024, the inaugural Bedford Downs Stock Route Walk marked a significant program milestone. Twelve at-risk boys embarked on a five-day cross-country cultural adventure through Gija Country. Over the course of the walk, they completed two challenging hikes of 7 and 10 kilometres across rocky, undulating terrain, testing their physical and mental resilience while fostering a profound sense of achievement and connection to Country.

Participants engaged in a range of immersive and skill-building activities designed to enhance their resilience, self-sufficiency, and cultural understanding. These included navigation using both stars and maps, identifying sources of water and food in the natural environment, and practical lessons in bush cooking using locally sourced ingredients. Cultural activities, such as fishing for black bream and learning about the history and significance of the Bedford Downs Stock Route, provided valuable opportunities for connection to Country and cultural learning.

The impact of the program was evident even during its first iteration. One standout story is that of Camble Sullivan, a 15-year-old Miriwoong participant who had previously been caught in a cycle of crime. Through the program, Camble emerged with renewed purpose and aspirations to become a ranger, demonstrating the potential of the initiative.

 

Looking Ahead - The 2025 Walk

Building on the success of the 2024 walk, the Bedford Downs Stock Route Walk will return in 2025 with renewed energy and commitment. The upcoming walk will continue to provide at-risk youth with a secure and culturally enriching experience, fostering healing, establishing support networks, and uncovering opportunities for a brighter future.

Key Partners - A Collaborative Approach

Under the cultural leadership of Wunan Director and Traditional Owner Lexi Trancollino, the program has formed strong partnerships with a range of organisations dedicated to supporting at-risk youth.

These include the National Indigenous Australians Agency (NIAA), LifeChanger, Norforce, WAPOL, PCYC, Department of Youth Justice, 54 Reasons, and Sports Chaplaincy Australia. This collaborative approach ensures holistic support for participants, addressing their individual needs and guiding them toward positive outcomes.

 

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