Disaster Recovery Training

SAFCA-NT Members recently attended training on disaster recovery in Darwin, equipping them with the knowledge, skills and networking to support clients/communities affected by disaster.  SAFCA is grateful to be able to collaborate with FCA to bring this important training in-person to the NT.  Special recognition goes to Louise Hayes, FCA’s Disaster Recovery Coordinator, and our very own Kelly Gulliver from CatholicCare NT, for their dedication and collaboration in shaping and facilitating such an impactful and engaging training experience. We also sincerely thank Yvonne Odegaard (Larrakia Nation Corporation), Tom Cobban (Berrill & Watson), Jennifer Lewis (AFCA), Nicola Coalter (Pragmatic Practice), Darwin Community Legal Service, Code Governance Committee, Peter Taylor (CatholicCare NT), and Peter Gartlan & Vanessa Hood (FCA) for generously sharing their expertise / experiences / time with us.

We were very honoured to have, Charlie King AM a prominent Australian advocate and the founder of the NO MORE Campaign in 2006 in partnership with CatholicCare NT, in attendance.  NO MORE is a grassroots initiative aimed at ending domestic and family violence, particularly within Aboriginal communities in the Northern Territory.  When Charlie first started conversations about family violence, local elders had common phrases about the problem, “no more” and “all men should link up”. In one of the group photos, you'll see we’ve all linked arms in honour of this.  Charlie shared his powerful story of surviving Cyclone Tracy. His insight into the trauma experienced during and following the cyclone was powerful and emotional, 50 years on. His story served as a powerful reminder of the lasting impact of disaster trauma—and the importance of listening to lived experiences when shaping our responses.

This training not only deepened our understanding of disaster recovery but also reminded us of the strength found in community, culture, and shared experience.