Rehabilitation services become available in the East Kimberley, Grylls
Author: Brendon Grylls
Published on: 09-September-2011
East Kimberley residents with drug and alcohol problems can now get local help following completion of a new rehabilitation service.
Stage two of the Ngnowar Aerwah 7 Mile Residential Rehabilitation Facility service was today officially opened in Wyndham.
Regional Development and Lands Minister Brendon Grylls said the $3.2million facility provided culturally appropriate services and was already having a positive impact on the local community.
“Before this facility opened, people requiring treatment would have to travel interstate to Darwin or to the rehabilitation centre in Broome,” Mr Grylls said.
“Indigenous Australians have identified the harmful use of alcohol as one of the most serious issues they face. Now, thanks to this new local facility, we have seen the number of referrals for treatment increase, which is a good sign that people are seeking out help in dealing with their drug and alcohol issues.”
Operated by the Ngnowar Aerwah Aboriginal Corporation, the facility provides a 13-week residential rehabilitation program offering both individual and group counselling sessions.
The Minister said the greater capacity of the new facility enabled the service to work with families rather than just individuals.
“Family contribution is a key component of treatment and accommodation and creche facilities are provided for up to 22 adults and 10 children,” he said.
Mr Grylls said the facility was built in two stages with stage 1 completed in June 2009. Stage 2 was funded under the $195million East Kimberley Development Package (EKDP) - a joint Commonwealth and State Government initiative.
“The EKDP is an infrastructure investment program across health; education and training; housing; transport; and community sectors in the East Kimberley region of WA,” he said.
“It complements the $220million Royalties for Regions funding committed by the State Government to the agricultural component of the program. The Ord Irrigation Expansion Program and the EKDP will increase the size of the Ord agricultural area by 8,000ha and provide much needed health, social, economic and community infrastructure to the region.
“The Ngnowar Aerwah 7 Mile Residential Rehabilitation Facility is a prime example of how this investment is benefiting local communities and would like to congratulate everyone who has contributed to the success of this vital service.”
