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Regional Reset Bilwon Rise Up

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How Bilwon Rise Up works

This program addresses the needs of children and teens from the Cairns, Cassowary Coast and Tablelands areas, and it will be tailored to the needs of every child. Bilwon Rise Up is a four-step program:

1

Say hi to the Bilwon team
A trusted person refers the child/teen to us, and we will get in contact with the child/teen and their family/carer

2

Overnight farm stay
After a cultural welcome, the child/teen comes to the farm for a one- to three-week residential stay focused on healing and routine

3

Ongoing support 
The farm stay is followed by 6 weeks of support tailored to the needs of the child/teen including e.g. literacy, cultural learning, or vocational training

4

Mentorship
The final step is ongoing mentorship and coordinated support across housing, learning and earning (depending on the age of the child)
The family will be involved in every step of the program and, with their input, will have the opportunity to be connected to services that can provide comprehensive wrap-around support. Camps run throughout the year and will be adapted to the needs of our participants, taking age and gender into consideration to make sure everyone feels safe and supported. Please see our calendar of activities to find out what’s happening on the farm.
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This program is funded by the Queensland Government under the Making Queensland Safer plan.

Family involvement

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Referrer details

Ready to get started?

Refer a child

Family, kin, teachers, police and other funded services, including Youth Justice-funded service providers can refer a child to our program. 

Taking the first step is simple:
 
  1. Fill out the form below to show interest, and a team member will call you.
  2. Or mail us bilwonriseup@themaraway.org.au
  3. Or call us directly on (07) 4040 2035.

We’ll talk with you (or the child) to make sure the program is the right fit, answer questions, and explain how we support participants during their time on the farm.

Take the step. Explore. Grow. Your journey starts here.
Aboriginal youth talking and laughing
Aboriginal young man looking over valley
Looking for a unique experience that helps young people explore, grow, and discover their potential? The Regional Reset Cairns Bilwon Rise Up Program is co-designed with local youth, Elders, and community partners to address disconnection, trauma, and lack of opportunity. 

Explore, learn, grow

Kids and teens ages 8–17

The Bilwon Rise Up Program is an early intervention program that aims to divert youth from their high-risk environments and provide an opportunity for respite and to reset relationships, behaviours and attitudes. Our program is designed as a safe, supportive space for kids and teens aged 8–17.

Camps at Bilwon Farm

This program is all about creating opportunities for young people and their families to reconnect, rebuild, and strengthen their relationships. Young people will be encouraged to try new things, build confidence, and take positive steps toward their goals – while having fun and learning life skills.

Our program includes camps on Bilwon Farm near Mareeba, where participants can:
 
  • Take part in hands-on activities and learn new skills
  • Meet new people and make friends
  • Explore farm life and other exciting opportunities
  • Work with mentors and supportive team members
  • Connect with programs and opportunities that help plan for the future

We’re here to support young people and their families, making sure every stay is safe, enjoyable, and meaningful. 
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