HCI convened a meeting of key stakeholders including representatives of the Neighbourhood Centre, Dept. of Housing, Community Health, Dept. of Community Services, Aboriginal Lands Council, local schools, Wollongong City Council, local MP’s and local residents. The first meeting was well attended and a range of issues were tabled including lack of local services, discrimination against aboriginal students, community safety, employment. The group agreed to form and meet every two months to work to address some of these issues with HCI to provide planning and administrative support to the group.

In August 2000, an opportunity arose for funding under the Federal Governments ‘Can Do Communities’ funding program and a draft strategic plan was developed to define the strategic priorities for the area. Unfortunately, the funding application was unsuccessful but this has not stopped the ongoing involvement of HCI, in partnership with other agencies, in pursuing a wide range of strategies aimed at improving health and well-being in Koonawarra.

Achievements include:

• Breakfast program established and provides breakfast 3 mornings per week to approximately 20 children, administered by a group of volunteers. Program is now largely self funding from local business sponsors.

• To help address local Koori family needs funding for a Koori playgroup was obtained and program established under the Families First Program with a local Koori employed as family worker.

• Funding obtained to establish a gentle exercise program being conducted twice per week.

• There has been increased community participation in Koonawarra Community Centre activities with greater involvement of a diverse range of community members.

• Community members develop skills and experience in program development, dealing with the media & government and funding/sponsorship writing.

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