Explore our latest updates, milestones, and the meaningful change we’re driving in communities. These stories highlight the people, partnerships, and progress shaping our journey.
boys to the bush, Hoody initiative.
In collaboration with Rippa Mate, Tonkin and Premier Building Construction, 100 hoodies were donated to the Boys To The Bush. With the message that Mateship Matters, the hoodies were are welcomed gift.
Boys to the Bush was established in 2017 by three schoolteachers who were noticing common issues in young men with similar backgrounds. Disconnected, vulnerable and often from a home without the presence of good male role models.
These three teachers (our founders) knew that if they
could give these boys what they each had growing up – strong, positive role models, it could change the course of their lives.
Boys to the Bush focuses on prevention and early
intervention strategies, putting the young man first.
Mentoring, school programs and camps
Cafe staff wear message of hope in support of mental health initiative
Wodonga's Close Collective Cafe has teamed up with clothing brand Rippa Mate to raise awareness of mental health.
The Close Collective Cafe is a social enterprise owned by Junction Support Services. Junction started in the late 1980s and is today the largest youth organisation in the Ovens and Murray and a lead advocate for youth engagement in the local community. Junction offers more than 40 programs covering crisis accommodation, youth services, family violence support, disability services, care services, education, driver education, and more.