The Dharriwaa Elders Group ("DEG") is an association of elderly Aboriginal people living in Walgett - a community living with great social disadvantage and an Aboriginal population of over 60%. It was incorporated in 2005 after operating since 1999 and has built respect and a solid network of supporters.

DEG provides culturally-driven, locally-controlled community development for Walgett. It provides a secretariat for its members' community leadership and development activities which include providing an Elders drop-in centre, Elders reading room, Elders health and wellbeing activities, Walgett's first Aboriginal arts and crafts shop and cultural exhibition space, an Aboriginal cultural heritage and environmental management program, healing, public health and cultural learning programs provided to youth, schools and community groups, and a nationally significant collection.

How will the funds be used?

Funds will be used to support the core operational activities of the Dharriwaa Elders Group. These includes rent, power, use and maintenance of vehicles, insurances, phone and internet use, annual accounting services, project management services and part-time staff. Meagre project funding from government sources shrank since 2010, and during difficult years DEG relied on a volunteer manager to build its future sustainability. Ultimately the Dharriwaa Elders Group endeavours to become independent from government through its own enterprise - and support from its sponsors like yourself. It has lots it needs to do.

Update 15 August 2021: Through our partnership with UNSW we are attracting funds from philanthropic and government sources that are tied to specific outcomes. Funds raised through this GiveNow campaign will allow Dharriwaa Elders Group to devote some resources to achieve outcomes for Elders and the community that are not supported by current funding.

The DEG believes that its proven concepts for community development, management record and growing experience in successful Aboriginal employment and training, demonstrate it is worthy of your support. If you would like further information about the Dharriwaa Elders Group please write to The Elders Council, Dharriwaa Elders Group, PO Box 174 Walgett NSW 2832, info@dharriwaaeldersgroup.org.au. Check out our website at www.dharriwaaeldersgroup.org.au and follow us on Twitter @DharriwaaEGroup.