The TAFE NSW WUURRA program is the first-ever Statement of Attainment in Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Cultural Arts to be delivered entirely online to inmates at the Bathurst Correctional Centre.
The program, which won a TAFE NSW Gili Award in 2022, provides inmates an opportunity to rediscover their cultural heritage and artistic talents, and has been such a success that it is now delivered in correctional centres across NSW with some centres running up to six WUURRA programs per semester.
TAFE NSW Teacher, Aunty Kate Croll, said the program was developed as a way to help inmates stay connected to their cultural roots and express themselves creatively during an isolating period.
“The response to the WUURRA program has been fantastic, it is more than just an art class; it's a chance for these men to rediscover their identity, connect with their community, and find hope for the future.
“The men receive a Statement of Attainment in Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Cultural Arts and for many of them this is the first time that they’ve ever finished something.
“WUURRA starts by providing students with a safe place to draw and paint, then we encourage them to share their stories. By the end of the program, they walk taller, they look you in the eye and they speak to you with confidence.  
“Being part of this program is incredibly rewarding and I couldn’t do it without the support of the Correctional Services staff and their commitment to providing the men with everything they need to complete the virtual class.”
Education Services Coordinator at the Bathurst Correctional Centre, Kristy Donlan, said the program has had a huge impact on participants and the classes fill quickly.  
“While we would love to have Aunty Kate here in the flesh, having the flexibility of a virtual class is fantastic and we are lucky to have the facilities to make it work so that it can be delivered to so many,” Ms Donlan said.
“It’s so rewarding to see that after the adversity some of these men have faced, they can participate in the WUURRA program and experience it’s benefits beyond the classroom.
“Once class is over, I see them reach out to their families and talk about where their grandparents grew up and what their totem is, the impact Kate and the program has on them is obvious.”
With the program tailored specifically to inmates, it also creates pathways for students to display and sell their art works and continue their qualifications after they are released.
“Many of the inmates are involved in designing and producing items sold at the Girrawaa Arts Centre here in Bathurst, including boomerangs, pen box sets, and wall art, and that gives them a sense of purpose and helps them feel like they are using their skills to contribute to something important,” Ms Donlan said.
“Upon release, we’re happy to help men make connections through TAFE NSW to build their qualifications with the Certificate II, III and IV in Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Cultural Arts and enhance their career opportunities.
“We have also had former inmates who have gone on to sell their work through their Local Aboriginal Land Councils or who have pursued other TAFE NSW courses.”
Media contact: Katie Hitchcock, TAFE NSW Communications Specialist, MediaRelease@tafensw.edu.au, 02 7920 5000.