Drug Safety Project (DSP) AWARD WINNER! - was developed by MDECC in 1999 after extensive local community consultation. Young people aged 16-18 years were recruited from community groups to receive extensive peer education training. Peer educators increased drug knowledge and confidence and were empowered to make informed choices when making decisions regarding drug and alcohol use. Peer educators then provided drug and health information informally to their friend networks. They also attended a number of local youth events.

DSP 'Survivor Challenge' - In 2004 the DSP project was revamped and re-branded. Two tribes of young people 'shabu' and 'hydro' were taken to an island camp for intensive drug, alcohol and related health training. 'Survivor Challenge' was particularly relevant to the target group, and built an analogy between fun, at risk behaviour and experimentation with drugs and/or alcohol. Apart from dynamic education sessions the two tribes were challenged by raft building, high ropes, ghost walks and board breaking. The young people then passed on information learned at the camp to their friend networks.

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Djabaan Marrung - In 2005, MDECC developed a peer education project that specifically targeted Indigenous young people in Taree. This project was conducted in partnership with the Ghinni Ghinni Youth and Culture Aboriginal Corporation. Djabaan Marrung peers came together not only to learn drug and alcohol information, but also to reconnect with their Aboriginal culture through creative art, music, and visiting sacred sites. If you are interested in learning more about this program, contact MDECC on 02 99770711

"This program is exactly what our community needs - sow the seeds of change and knowledge"

Biripi Elder speaking of the Djabaan Marrung project

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