The September school holidays in Yuendumu were packed with energy, creativity, and community thanks to a fun-filled two-week program run by the Wanta Youth Program.
One of the biggest highlights was the music workshop with a recycling twist. Young people headed out to the local Yuendumu dump, collecting all kinds of reusable items—old tins, pipes, buckets, wires and more. With the help of the Wanta team, they turned trash into treasure by building their very own musical instruments. It wasn’t just about sound—it was about using creativity, teamwork, and sustainable thinking to make something special from what others might throw away.
Once the instruments were ready, the youth got hands-on with music-making, beat-building, and rhythm games that had everyone tapping along. The sounds of Yuendumu were alive!
Alongside the music fun, there was a colourful and expressive art workshop where young people had the chance to get hands on with their creative sides. The art space was a big hit, filled with proud culture, strong stories, and amazing talent. To top it all off, we had a very special visitor—Esme from Hair Bar Central—who brought her skills and style to town, giving haircuts and styles to all the kids and youth. From fresh fades to new braids, Esme helped everyone feel confident and look their best. Her warm energy and professional touch made a huge impact, and the kids absolutely loved it!
Brent from CAYLUS spent time in the Wanta space during the September holidays, running a series of creative art activities for local young people. His sessions gave kids the chance to explore painting, drawing, and craft-making, encouraging self-expression and creativity in a relaxed, supportive environment. The activities were a great way to bring the community together, with lots of colour, laughter, and imagination filling the space. Brent’s visit was a highlight of the holidays, inspiring many to keep creating long after the workshops ended.
Adding to the sense of community, the local police stepped into a different role—helping to prepare and serve food at the Wanta space. Their presence was relaxed and positive, helping build trust and connection while making sure no one went hungry.
It sure was a holiday break to remember from stories out bush to drumming on recycled buckets, from fresh new haircuts to sharing meals with the local police, the September school holiday program was a powerful reminder of the strength and creativity in Yuendumu’s young people—and the village of support around them.
Big thanks go out to:
Kaff (Kaffeine Paints) and Nicole, for guiding art and storytelling on Country
Cal, for turning rubbish into rhythm and inspiring musical magic
Brent from CAYLUS for bring the activities in the Yuendumu wanta space
Esme, for helping kids feel confident and fresh
The local police, for showing up and supporting in real ways
And most of all, the amazing youth of Yuendumu, who brought energy, curiosity, and community spirit to every single day
It was a blast of a holiday program, with two full weeks of activities, laughter, learning, and connection. Whether it was banging on a homemade drum, painting a canvas, or walking away with a fresh haircut—every young person had something to smile about!
Written by Claire Lechleitner, Manager Yuendumu Youth Program
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