Footprints Community

02/06/2026

As part of the Footprints celebration of National Reconciliation Week, we challenged all our staff to research the Traditional Custodians of the land that was special to them.

Here is Christina's story. Naarm Melbourne is special for her, and through her research, she found that this land is cared for by the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung people of the Kulin Nation.

Read the full story on our website https://footprintscommunity.org.au/christinas-story-nrw/ (link in bio as well)

Who are the Traditional Custodians of the land that is special to YOU?

02/06/2026

Today, wrapping up National Reconciliation Week is Mabo Day.
This is not only a significant day in Australian history for First Nations people, it is essential for all Australians to understand the significance of the Mabo decision.

The Mabo decision was named after Eddie ‘Koiki’ Mabo, a Torres Strait Islander who believed Australian laws on land ownership were wrong and fought to change them. He challenged the Australian legal system and fought for recognition of the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the traditional owners of their land.

The Mabo case ran for ten years. On 3 June 1992, the High Court of Australia decided that terra nullius should not have been applied to Australia. This decision recognised that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have rights to the land – rights that existed before the British arrived and still exist today.

The Mabo decision was a turning point for the recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ rights because it acknowledged their unique connection with the land. It also led to the Australian Parliament passing the Native Title Act in 1993.

Eddie Mabo never found out the result of his legal case. He died in January 1992, just five months before the High Court made its decision.

On this, the final day of National Reconciliation Week, let's take some time to acknowledge the fortitude and tenacity of Eddie Mabo to fight for what is right.

31/05/2026

Pride Month is celebrated in June each year. It’s a time to recognise and celebrate the vibrant and diverse LGBTIQA+ community, and the many contributions LGBTIQA+ people have made to Australia’s cultural, social and economic life.

It’s also a time to acknowledge the ongoing journey toward equality, and the importance of embracing and respecting individual and collective identities.

Pride is about visibility, inclusion and creating spaces where people feel safe to be themselves.

Whether you’re part of the LGBTIQA+ community or an ally, we invite you to join us in celebrating diversity and championing inclusion, not just during Pride Month, but every day.

27/05/2026

As part of the Footprints celebration of National Reconciliation Week, we challenged all our staff to research the Traditional Custodians of the land that was special to them.

Here is Maddy's story. Maleny is special for her, and through her research, she found that this land is cared for by the clans of the Jinibara nation.

Read the full story on our website https://footprintscommunity.org.au/maddys-story-nrw/

Who are the Traditional Custodians of the land that is special to YOU?

26/05/2026

National Reconciliation Week (NRW) starts today and is a time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia.

Here is a sneak peak of our new First Nations artwork, titled “Connection and Belonging”, created by First Nations artist Jason Douglas from Dalmarri. It tells the story of connection, belonging and shared journeys.

Across our organisation, staff have been reflecting on places that are personally meaningful to them and taking the time to learn more about the Traditional Custodians of those lands, the histories connected to Country, and the enduring connection First Nations peoples continue to hold with community, culture and place.

These reflections have been a reminder that reconciliation begins with listening, learning and acknowledging the truths of our shared history. We will be sharing some of these stories during this week, so watch out for them.

As we continue our reconciliation journey, we remain committed to building understanding, respect and meaningful connections with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities.

25/05/2026

Caring for someone can often mean putting your own needs aside. Living Well Sessions have been created to give carers supporting someone experiencing mental health challenges a chance to step away from daily pressures and reconnect with themselves, others, and the surrounding community.

Across June, we’ll be offering a range of relaxed, small-group wellbeing days designed to help carers slow down, breathe, feel supported, and connect with others who understand the caring role.

Activities (at no cost to carers) include:
💚 Walk & talk mornings by the water
💚 Creative calm sessions
💚 Nature walks and gentle journalling
💚 Quiet social connection over a warm drink
💚 Grounding and wellbeing activities

The first session next week is EXHALE – Coastal Reset & Nervous System Recovery Day. Spots limited - Register your expression of interest for the days that would appeal to you: https://buff.ly/EQ5UbDp

25/05/2026

National Sorry Day is held on 26 May each year. It is a time to remember and acknowledge the Stolen Generations, and the history of forcible removals of First Nations peoples and their children, along with the ongoing impacts felt today.

This date marks the anniversary of the tabling of Bringing Them Home, the 1997 report to the Australian Parliament following the National Inquiry into the Separation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children from Their Families.

Purple is often associated with National Sorry Day. It reflects the Native Hibiscus flower, a symbol used by Stolen Generations survivors. The flower, which can survive in harsh conditions, represents resilience, strength, compassion and healing.

Today is an opportunity to listen, to learn, and to reflect on our shared history. We honour the strength of Stolen Generations survivors and acknowledge the importance of truth-telling, healing and reconciliation.

21/05/2026

Thank you to Kara Cook MP for visiting Karakan 2026 Schizophrenia Awareness Week Event – Belonging Begins With Us, earlier this week.

This free community event brought us together in recognition, understanding, and solidarity with people who have lived and are living the experience of schizophrenia and other mental health needs.

The team from Footprints Medicare Mental Health Centres connected with the community, shared resources, and supported a safe space for people to share their stories.

20/05/2026

A huge and heartfelt thank you to Zonta Club of Brisbane River Inc for choosing Footprints Housing Older Women's Support Service as this year's Melbourne Cup fundraising recipient.
Your continued support is greatly appreciated ❤️

SAVE THE DATE!! Tuesday 3 November! Get your dresses, ties and fascinators ready!! 👗👠👔
Our incredible fabulous fundraising Melbourne Cup lunch is back this year!
Hosted with to raise funds for HOWSS.

20/05/2026

The Older Women’s Network (Qld) Inc. is hosting a one-day workshop in Mackay, offering practical guidance for older women exploring their housing, financial and lifestyle options as they age.

This special event brings together guest speakers from government, private and community sectors including our Housing Older Women's Support Service, who will be presenting.

The day aims to provide clear, accessible information about housing options to support informed decision-making.

It’s a great opportunity for women wanting to better understand their choices and feel more confident about planning for the future.

Join us at:
Souths leagues Club- 181 Milton St , South Mackay
Tuesday 26 May
9am - 3.30pm

We look forward to meeting you.