Nhulundu Health Service
Connecting indigenous youth
Meaningful connection and support for Aboriginal youth
In Gladstone, Queensland, a small but powerful initiative is changing the lives of vulnerable young men — helping them stay in school, stay connected to culture, and make healthier life choices.
The Young Men’s Group, led by the dedicated Family Wellbeing team at Nhulundu Health Service, supports at-risk youth aged 13 and 14, many of whom have come through the child safety system. What started as informal after-school catchups — sharing a meal and shooting hoops — quickly became something far more meaningful.
That simple connection was making a world of difference.
Run without official funding, the group was built on commitment, care, and community. But Peter Stuart and Ronald Donald from Nhulundu Health Service knew that with a little extra support, the program could grow and provide even more to the young men who needed it most.
That’s when they turned to Rural Doctors Foundation.
When Peter and Ronald found out they secured the grant, they did a happy dance. The young men were also over the moon.
This funding meant they could buy equipment for activities like kayaking, fishing, and hiking.
Positive role models and optimism for the future
We were proud to provide a boost to the Young Men’s Group — helping it transition from a grassroots effort into a structured, sustainable program.
Today, the group continues to offer a safe space for young men to talk openly about the challenges they face. Together, they explore important topics like:
Staying engaged in school
Understanding sexual health
Navigating drug and alcohol use
Managing anger and emotions
Strengthening their cultural identity
Most importantly, the Young Men’s Group helps these boys build trust, resilience, and respect — guided by strong role models at a critical time in their development.
At Rural Doctors Foundation, we believe programs like this play a vital role in shaping healthy, connected rural communities. By supporting initiatives that empower young people and promote wellbeing, we’re helping to lay the foundation for better futures — one conversation, one connection, and one young life at a time.
Your donation helps us fund more community-led health and wellbeing initiatives just like the Young Men’s Group.
Donate now and be part of something that makes a real difference.