Darwin Update in May: What Has Been Happening at MIFANT

4 days ago
3 min read

Local Business Looks After Community

Getting to an appointment sounds simple. But when money is tight and the day already feels heavy, transport can be the thing that stops everything else.

We are so grateful to Pat O'Connell, Michael Sitzler, and Steve Margetic from FuelXpress Pty Ltd, who have donated a full year of fuel card support to MIFANT. Pictured with Executive Officer Lorraine Davies and Development Manager Kon Vatskalis, this is local business looking after community. We will use the fuel card to assist our participants with transport, helping them get to the appointments, programs, and community connections that support their wellbeing. Thank you, FuelXpress.

Out in the Community

The MIFANT team was at the Disability Expo at Marrara Netball Stadium, connecting with the wider Darwin community. Former NT Administrator Vicky O'Halloran was among those who stopped by to say hello.

Conversations That Matter

Independent Member for Johnston, Justine Davis MLA, came through MiPlace Hub so the team could show her around and walk her through what MIFANT does across the Territory. The conversation covered programs running in Darwin and the work the MiTrack team is doing with young people in Alice Springs and Tennant Creek. Mental health support works best when the people representing our community understand what it looks like up close.

Shortly after, Ed Smelt, Member for Nightcliff, joined Development Manager Kon and Programs Manager Jess for a conversation about the work MIFANT does here in Darwin and across Central Australia. Thank you, Ed, for your time and for the conversation.

The MIFA Conference at MiPlace Hub

The MIFA Conference was held at MiPlace Hub in Darwin. Gathering in a space that is part of the local community brought a unique and welcome perspective to the event. Great to have everyone here.

What Has Been Happening at MiPlace Hub

Creative Expression with Breanna from Just FLO

Breanna from Just FLO facilitated a Creative Expression session with our participants, bringing together art, journalling, and hands-on making around a single guiding idea: that we are each made up of many pieces and experiences, and that those pieces, when given space and time, can come together into something whole. Everyone made something with their own hands. What they created together showed just how much can surface when people are given the space to reflect and make.

Lego Sunflowers, Origami, and Good Company

Participants channelled their focus into building Lego sunflowers, then carefully cut and shaped styrofoam blocks to secure the stems inside display pots so they can brighten up the common area. We also welcomed participants from CAAPS Aboriginal Corporation for an origami session. The table was full of energy, laughter, and great conversations as everyone learned new folding techniques together.

New Games

We have been setting up new games at MiPlace Hub, and the pinball machine has already become a favourite. Participants have been enjoying pool, Jenga, and the new arcade games. These activities build confidence, encourage friendly conversation, and give people a reason to show up and be part of something. For our participants, that sense of routine and belonging is one of the most important parts of their wellbeing.

Cool Program Update

The Cool Program has been out exploring Darwin, with outings to Cullen Bay for a stroll and afternoon tea, the library, Wangi Falls, op shopping, and Kingpin.