Elders Forum
In 2021, Nirrumbuk Aboriginal Corporation, in partnership with the Honourable Rosetta Sahanna MLC, proudly hosted the inaugural Elders Forum in Broome.
Since its inception, the forum has grown into a highly valued annual event. At the most recent forum held in October, over 120 participants attended, including approximately 80 Elders from Broome and the Dampier Peninsula, alongside carers, staff, guest speakers, and representatives from medical and aged care services.
The Elders Forum provides a culturally safe and respectful space for Aboriginal Elders to come together, share their voices, and engage in meaningful discussions. The event is designed to support ageing well, promote social inclusion, and strengthen connections within the community.
Through informative sessions and open dialogue, Elders are provided with access to important information on health, wellbeing, and available services. The forum also facilitates direct engagement with service providers, ensuring Elders are informed about the supports available to them and how to access these services.
Nirrumbuk remains committed to honouring and supporting Elders by creating opportunities for connection, empowerment, and the sharing of knowledge, ensuring their voices continue to guide and strengthen the community.
Broome Community of Elders
On 4 August, a group of respected Community Elders from Broome gathered at Nirrumbuk Aboriginal Corporation to formally establish a collective identity. Through this meeting, the name Broome Community of Elders was chosen to reflect the shared values, purpose, and cultural strength of the group.
Guided by the principle, “Broome Community Respects and Protects our Elders”, the group embodies a deep commitment to honouring and safeguarding the role of Elders within the community.
Elders are recognised as highly valued members of society, respected for their wisdom, cultural knowledge, and lived experience. Their guidance continues to play a vital role in strengthening community connections, preserving cultural heritage, and supporting future generations.
Committee Objectives
The Broome Community of Elders is guided by a strong commitment to respect, inclusion, and community wellbeing. The Committee’s key objectives are to:
- Demonstrate and promote the community’s respect for, and protection of, its Elders
- Establish a unified and representative voice that reflects the perspectives of all Elders within the Broome community
- Identify and engage Elders who may be socially isolated, encouraging their participation in community, cultural, and volunteer activities
- Ensure Elders feel safe, valued, and supported within the community
- Empower Elders to share their knowledge, leadership, and cultural guidance
- Strengthen connections between Elders and young people, fostering mutual respect and cultural learning
- Support families and children through education and community engagement initiatives
Committee Strategies
To achieve these objectives, the Committee is committed to the following strategies:
- Hosting a monthly community stall at the Boulevard, providing a platform for Elders to raise issues, share concerns, and engage in open dialogue, with feedback communicated back to the broader community
- Conducting twice-weekly street patrols (9:00am–11:00am) to engage with young people who are disengaged from education, understand underlying barriers, and facilitate appropriate referrals to Youth Patrol and related support services
- Undertaking regular check-ins and home visits with vulnerable Elders to ensure their wellbeing and connection to community supports
- Establishing and maintaining a dedicated Facebook page to share information, promote activities, and strengthen communication with the wider community
Elders Morning Tea
