Embedding Culture, Improving Wellbeing

In 2015-2019 approximately 221 people, averaging 15-25 years of age in Cairns and surrounding region felt their only solution to life's challenges was taking their own life. The ripple effects of suicide can be felt for years following a death and in many different forms. The heartache from losing a strong man, inspired founder and facilitator Bernard Sabadi to establish the  Kunjur First Nations Mens Collective. 

The inspiration that prompted Bernard into action came at the unfortunate loss of his friend/brother. It was the questions we all ask ourselves during those times ‘What could I have done? What could I have said?’ What doesn't exist for Men in our region'?   

A place for Men to talk,  to be heard and to support each other.    

To honour our late Brother Kawanji Brady of Western Gugu Yalanji origin, Bernard asked Kawanji's family if they could provide a name for this Men’s Support Group. Click here to see Uncle Vincent Brady explain the meaning behind Kunjur.  The group of volunteers plan, market and deliver community engagement activities within the Cairns and surrounding region. With limited resources, the group actively seek donations from partnering organisations and self fund their weekly gatherings to ensure a consistent safe place is provided for those in need.   

Since establishing Kunjur First Nations Men's Collective (KFNMC) over 120+ individuals have participated in events or connected each week around a fire to share their stories. Many of whom are, or have battled their own inner demands.