Since launching their Strategic and Operations Plan in 2019, Mura Kosker Sorority have been focussed on implementation and making internal changes to improve service delivery and increase community engagement.
Recruiting eleven new Outreach Workers based on Boigu, Dauan, Saibai, Badhu, Mabuyag, Masig, Mer, Poruma, St Pauls, Kubin and Iama, Mura Kosker Sorority were determined to ensure that outer island communities have access to services and support.
Interim Manager Mr Ken Riddiford said that the recent team expansion would ensure permanency of available services in our outer island communities.
“It was crucial that we employed local community members into these roles. Not only does it provide employment opportunities, but we were also determined to have on the ground support readily available, especially for times of need” explained Mr Riddiford.
Part of the recruitment process included a three-day intensive training program to ensure job readiness and familiarity with Mura Kosker’s obligations, as the longest operating women, men and family wellbeing service provider.
Taking advantage of the opportunity, the management team offered the training to all staff and board to reconnect and realign their focus for the new year.
The training was divided between Thursday Island and Cairns with all 39 of Mura Kosker’s Staff, Board and new employees in attendance.
Board President Mrs Regina Turner stated that this was the first time that all staff and board were able to spend three-days together.
“Through our strategic planning, we identified the need for the operations staff and Board to connect. It was very timely that we started 2020 with such a grand event.”
“It has already boosted office morale, strengthened internal relationships and affirmed roles and responsibilities” said Mrs Turner.
The training included sessions with the Queensland Human Rights Commission, Funding Bodies, the Benevolent Society and Case Management Workshops with the Queensland Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Child Protection Peak (QATSICPP).
As the Cairns training was based at Tjapukai, Mura Kosker were able to experience Djabugay culture and participate in immersive cultural activities including a welcome to country, fire making traditions and traditional dance.
“We wanted to include cultural activities throughout the training and Tjapukai offered the facilities to do so.”
“Our team and Board had a wonderful time engaging with the local Aboriginal people and learning their culture.”
“The training and immersive cultural experiences would not be possible without our funding bodies and we’d like to acknowledge their ongoing support” added Mr Riddiford.
Media Release End
For more information, please contact Aletia Twist, CEO Mura Kosker Sorority on 07 4069 1663.
