A trip worth waiting for

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander readers are advised that the following article contains images and names of people who have died. 

It’s been two years since RM, from Healthscope Independence Services Alawa House in Darwin, has seen her family on Groote Eylandt, a small island off the coast of the NT in East Arnhem land.

Moving to Darwin 10 years ago was a challenge for RM. To say goodbye to her country and family is unimaginable for many, but was necessary for RM to receive support for her needs.

Every year she goes back to Groote Eylandt as part of a Kin Connect trip to return to country and see family. RM shops throughout the year for gifts like kids toys, clothing, cooking supplies or fishing items for the elders, sisters and cousins.

This trip is the major highlight of RM's year and the team at Alawa are always surprised by her spirit and the energy she has on the island. RMis non-verbal so it can be hard to know about her history and family connections. These trips to Groote Eylandt always help our staff learn more and more about RM and the people important in her life. The team bring this knowledge back to Alawa and continue these conversations which make RM incredibly happy.

HIS has supported RM each year on her trip back home knowing she is at her happiest when in the company of family and friends at home in Angurugu, Anindilyakwa and Alyangula.

For the first time in two years because of the COVID lockdowns, RM was accompanied by Pearle Nia Nia and Fatumata Kabah on her trip back home. Grateful for the opportunity to support RM back to country, Pearle and Fatumata were humbled by the experience to witness RM at her happiest, at home.