About Us
Our story
Wolkara began in 2011 as a small gathering of Elders who wanted a safe space to yarn, share a cuppa or a meal, and look out for one another. The group grew out of community need: many Elders felt isolated, stuck at home without much to do, or overlooked by mainstream services, especially those living outside the "service footprints" of larger organisations.
From those beginnings, Wolkara has become a family. We welcome Elders from different Mobs and backgrounds, and we walk together with volunteers and partners who share our vision, mission, and values. We are proud to be led by and for our community, as a grassroots, First Nations not-for-profit.
Our gatherings keep culture alive through story, art, and song, while also addressing practical needs like health, social connection, and advocacy.
Hand-painted and designed by Aunty Daphne, our logo represents Wolkara Elders Group as a meeting place where men, women, and children come together. The flowing dots trace the journeys of people arriving and departing, and echo the colours of the Aboriginal flag.
Through this artwork, we honour connection, belonging, and the strength of culture carried through generations.
Our vision
Our vision is for a strong and culturally connected community that respects and empowers every Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elder to grow and thrive.
Our mission
Wolkara Elders is a safe and empowering space where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders grow through connection to culture and land. Grounded in respect and self-determination, we share stories, strengthen wellbeing, reduce social isolation, and keep our culture strong for future generations.
Our values
Respect
We treat everyone with dignity, and we value what each person brings to our community. We advocate and build partnerships based on shared goals and understanding. We are a proud First Nations and community-led not-for-profit practicing self-determination.
Belonging
We come together as one big extended family. Through friendship, we care for one another and have fun together. We welcome and provide support to people who may fall through the gaps between other services.
Accountability
We go about our work with integrity, honesty, and trust. We take responsibility, and we pull each other up when needed to protect the group as a safe space and a place of healing.
Connection with Country
We share stories, knowledge, and cultural practices whenever possible. We honour Elders that have come before us, as custodians of the lands and waterways, and we work together to keep our culture strong.
Our Elders Team
Thank you to our supporters and partners for walking alongside the Wolkara Elders Group
