ATSICHS Brisbane members recently came together for a yarning circle to give feedback on our Constitution, helping to guide our governance structure and shape where we are heading and how. 

Our members are the backbone of ATSICHS Brisbane and hearing their voices is fundamental to our makeup, keeping our organisation culturally-grounded and community-led.

ATSICHS Brisbane Board Director Justin Welfare led the session, which brought members together online and in person to ensure our Constitution remains fit for purpose and reflects updated legislation. Our Co-founder Uncle Les Collins, Life Member Uncle Jeffery Broom, as well as long-time and new members, contributed their ideas and insights to the conversation. 

Justin said the session created a respectful space for open dialogue and the sharing of diverse perspectives, stories and reflections that ‘will be invaluable as we move forward.’ 

“Engaging members in the constitutional review is important because it builds ownership, ensures cultural relevance, and strengthens trust in our governance. Their feedback helps shape a document that truly reflects our community’s values and aspirations for ATSICHS Brisbane.”

This year, we’ve had around 100 new members sign up to have their say in the direction of our organisation.

One of them is Robert Linnell, who has connections to the Ngadjuri Nation. Robert is proud of his roots and the strong line of family and culture that continues to guide and ground him.  

“I’ve been coming to ATSICHS Brisbane for years, not just as a client, but as part of a community that truly cares,” he said. “I’ve seen first-hand how the organisation walks alongside our mob, supporting families and individuals through every stage of life.”

Robert said that becoming a member was a way to give back and have a voice in a cause that has always supported him.

“Our Elders built ATSICHS Brisbane from the ground up, and I want to do my part to keep that legacy strong for future generations. By getting involved, I can help make sure our services keep growing in ways that reflect our culture, values and community needs.”

Reflecting on the yarning circle, he said it was ‘deadly, open, honest and full of good yarns.’

“Everyone had the chance to share their ideas in a safe space. It showed that ATSICHS Brisbane really listens to its members and values what we have to say. It made me feel proud to be part of something that’s community-led and always improving.”

Member feedback from the yarning circle was presented to our Board and incorporated into a new draft of the Constitution, which will be presented to members to vote on at the upcoming Annual General Meeting on 27 November.

Learn more about becoming a member by visiting: https:/atsichsbrisbane.org.au/membership/