During the month of June, students from the faculty of the Built Environment and Engineering had the opportunity to contribute to the ongoing efforts to “drought proof” the Walgett 

Aboriginal Medical Service (WAMS) Community Garden. This work is part of a broader program to improve community wellbeing through a healthy hydration and nutrition program developed through the Yuwaya Ngarra-li Partnership between the Dharriwaa Elders Group and UNSW with WAMS.

It is a privilege for members of the UNSW water community to work with the Dharriwaa Elders Group as they advocate for and develop sustainable water solutions in concert with promotion of healthy nutrition. The leadership of the Dharriwaa Elders Group on water and nutrition at a time of prolonged water shortage in the Namoi and Barwon has been inspirational, however, the resilience of the community has been further tested during the month of June when Walgett’s only supermarket burnt down. 

The Dharriwaa Elders Group is now coordinating a food and water appeal and anyone interested in providing direct support to the community in Walgett can make a tax deductible donation to this community relief effort.

Dharriwaa Elders Group