National Indigenous Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Conference
Workshop Day

Cultural Workshop Day

The below agenda is the 2026 Cultural Workshop Day which ran on Kaurna Country in Adelaide. The 2027 workshop agenda is coming soon.

About the AIPA Conference Cultural Workshop Day

The Cultural Workshop Day provides an opportunity to step away from the conference setting and onto Country, deepening connections with place, culture and one another. Recognising the central role of Culture and Country in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander social and emotional wellbeing, the conference concludes with an immersive experience that honours local knowledge, strengthens relationships and leaves delegates inspired, grounded and renewed to continue the important work of supporting their communities.

2026 Agenda

The 2026 cultural workshop day took place at the Living Kaurna Cultural Centre. Located at Warriparinga, the centre is a major location for First Nations celebrations in South Australia, including music performances and markets. The centre is owned and managed by Kaurna peoples and promotes cultural respect towards First Nations people within Australia.

Delegates weaving a basket on CountryDelegate learning about native plants in the gardenDelegates exploring the Living Kaurna Cultural Centre exhibition
8.15
Housekeeping
Bus from Stamford Grand to Living Kaurna Cultural Centre
8.45
Housekeeping
Welcome and light refreshments
9.00
Activities
Split into four groups – all groups will complete all activities
Group A

Guided On Country walk and talk

Embark on an interactive tour of the stunning Warriparinga grounds and wetlands. Learn about the history of the location and its traditional cultural significance.

Group B

Weaving workshop

Join the Southern Elders Weaving Group to participate in this traditional practice. You will yarn with your peers and Elders to debrief and consolidate your learnings whilst you create something special.

Group C

Healing through song

Join Barkindji singer songwriter, Nancy Bates as she explores with you the power of healing through performative expression. Learn new techniques to take back to your community and foster wellbeing in creative modes grounded in culture and connection.

Group D

Explore the Cultural Centre

Take a breather from the structured learning and enjoy some free time to explore the beautiful Living Kaurna Cultural Centre and surrounding grounds.

10.15
Activities
Groups swap activity
Group D

Guided On Country walk and talk

Group A

Weaving workshop

Group B

Healing through song

Group C

Explore the Cultural Centre

11.30
Break
Lunch
12.30
Activities
Move to next activity
Group C

Guided On Country walk and talk

Group D

Weaving workshop

Group A

Healing through song

Group B

Explore the Cultural Centre

1.45
Activities
Move to final activity
Group B

Guided On Country walk and talk

Group C

Weaving workshop

Group D

Healing through song

Group A

Explore the Cultural Centre

3.00
Housekeeping
Workshop concludes – bus back to Stamford Grand