The Chief Justice’s Law Week Youth Appeal Trust was established in 2001 by members of the Law Society with the objective “to create an ongoing charitable fundraising effort by legal practitioners to support youth charities, including (but not limited to) those for youth with disabilities and, in particular, youth support services that assist in diverting youth from the criminal justice system.”
The Trust, to which the late, the Honourable David Malcolm was the inaugural patron, has successfully provided funding to an array of services, charities and specific projects in Western Australia that assist in diverting youth from the criminal justice system.
Beneficiaries of Trust monies have included:
Monies from the Trust made possible the Headspace Kimberley Survival Camp on the Dampier Peninsular at Kooljaman. The camp promotes health and wellbeing in a fun environment for young people, as well as delivering education about nutrition, hygiene and fitness, and promoting positive self-esteem and increased feelings of self worth.
The Headspace Kimberley team approached Broome Senior High student service team and asked them to identify students who would benefit most from engaging with Headspace staff. Included in the group of 10 young people were a mix of Indigenous and non-Indigenous students; some were disengaged from school, from remote communities, or displayed behavioural issues or low self-confidence.
Two highly respected local Bardi men, Bundy Chaquebor and Brian Lee, provided cultural activities including spear-making, mud crabbing and learning about local and flora. They also spoke at length about the importance of respect for country, family and pride in where they came from. The five day camp allowed time to address how to communicate effectively, managing emotions, teamwork, and respect for each other and Aboriginal culture.
“I fully respect the Headspace staff and understand the advice they give. It helps me so I don’t react like I used to. I feel comfortable coming into the centre and could easily chat to any of them.” – Camp participant
