A proud First Nations man, Zander Robinson dreams of working in Indigenous health in his hometown of Dalby.

A member of the Clontarf Academy, Zander and his classmates recently received some job-seeking advice from the team at New Hope Group.

The Clontarf Academy, a New Hope Group partner, aims to improve the education, discipline, life skills, self-esteem and employment prospects of young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men.

Zander is in Year 12 at Dalby State High School and said a career in Indigenous health is within his grasp because of the Academy’s support.

“They have given me an opportunity to realise my dreams,“ Zander said.

“The Clontarf Academy has pathways with the Goondir Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders Corporations for Health Services. I am currently exploring apprenticeship opportunities.

“A career in Indigenous health would allow me to care for family and friends who have helped me in the past.”

Young Gamilaraay man, Kael Duncan grew up knowing little about his heritage. The Clontarf Academy has helped him understand his ancestry and connect with his culture.

“I grew up with my mum and she is white,” Kael said.

“Initially, I did not know much about my background. The Clontarf Academy has done a lot to help me find my place.

“I have learned a lot about respect and treating everyone fairly.

“My goal is to attend university, study film and become a director.”

In 2024, New Hope Group committed $450,000 over three years to the Clontarf Academy.

New Hope Group HR Manager, Jack Pilcher said the Company has a long and proud history of supporting the local community via a wide range of projects and partnerships.

“The Clontarf Foundation run programs in schools across Australia and our support is focused towards the programs it operates in and around Toowoomba, including Dalby,” Jack said.

“New Hope Group and the Clontarf Academy have a shared belief in the value of long-term investment in capacity building for young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men.

“The Clontarf programme is based on values and relationships. Through informal, unstructured and fun activities, the partnership will help build relationships, break down barriers, reduce stereotyping and enable positive involvement between students and the entire New Hope Group team.

“It was brilliant to have the boys at our head office in Brisbane recently. Hopefully they enjoyed the visit as much as we did.”