South West Aboriginal Medical Service celebrates opening of Djin Djin Mart for social and support services

The South West Aboriginal Medical Service has opened the doors to a new home for those wanting a yarn or needing support.

Djin Djin Mart, or good group support in Noongar, was officially opened last week as the new home of the organisation’s social men’s and women’s groups, and a disability peer support group.

SWAMS chief executive Lesley Nelson said it was exciting to see the building come to fruition.

“I believe the staff that are involved in this space out here, they’re certainly going to ensure it is a safe space, it is a cultural space and it’s a space that will welcome everyone that wants to come in,” she said.

Djin Djin Mart will also offer expanded mental health, alcohol and other drug support through the Mental Health Commission-sponsored Moorditj Mia program, which will include weekly relaxion, arts and crafts and music sessions.

SWAMS board member Ernie Hill spoke about the importance of the facility, leaning on his personal experience.

“The importance of this place here is to have a safe place, a safe place that we as a community can have a yarn,” he said.

“We can (also) just sit here and have a place that we can just contemplate it ourselves.”

Attendees of the official opening were provided a tour of the facility, which has three rooms where workshops and group activities can be held.

Mental health, alcohol and other drug manager Justin Brown said it was fantastic to see the facility opened.

“It is about bringing people and community together so we can come and enjoy each other’s company,” he said.

Ms Nelson noted the Sampson Road building was just one facility which had been in the organisation’s pipeline, with a $40 million health hub planned for Jaycee Park.