You’ve got a ‘furry’ friend in me

The newest member of the Goolum Goolum family has a little trouble speaking, but what she lacks in communication skills, she certainly makes up for in emotional support.

Gracie, Goolum Goolum’s therapy dog, has been walking the corridors at the office since she was a wee little pup earlier this year.

Now finding her stride, Gracie has been taken under the wing of Family Violence Worker Samantha O’Connor who has been housing Gracie and training her since early this year.

Goolum Goolum has also been lucky enough to have the support of dog trainer Emma Söder. The Swedish expat has experience in training police dogs for the Swedish Police Force.

Emma has been interested in training dogs since a young age.

“Growing up with a Labrador he was my best friend, when I got older I saw so many dogs being misunderstood by their owners and just wanted to help build a lasting understanding friendship between owner and dog,” she said.

“I started walking dogs when I was 14 and then built up from that with courses and a lot of volunteering.”

Only a month into doggy boot camp, Gracie is already making leaps and bounds and is well and truly on track to reach her potential as a therapy dog.

Sam, who has taken on the task of housing and training her, said she was enjoying bonding with Gracie.

Goolum Goolum Aboriginal Co-operative respectfully acknowledges that our offices are based on unceded land of the Wotjobaluk, Jaadwa, Jadawajali, Wergaia and Jupagulk peoples. We pay our respects to their ancestors, and to Elders, both past and present, and to the future Elders and caretakers of this land.

Always was, always will be, Aboriginal Land.

Dalki Mulwill,

I am thrilled to share the success of our recent Pathways and Try Trade expo where we witnessed our young people embracing opportunities and forging promising paths. The energy and enthusiasm displayed by both participants and stallholders were truly inspiring. Building on this momentum, I'm excited to announce our upcoming mental health campaign and event in September HAND UP. Our commitment to holistic well being remains unwavering, and this initiative will amplify our collective efforts in supporting mental health within our communities. Together, we'll continue to empower our youth, foster resilience, and ensure a brighter future for all.

Meet the Goolum Goolum Board of Directors

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“But I would not change any of this as she is the most loyal, wonderful dog and is very intelligent. She is my little buddy.” training, chew everything in sight and

Sam said she had already noticed Gracie’s presence at Goolum was making a big difference around the office.

“I believe that Grace already has boosted morale in the workplace,” she said.

“She has already shown to improve teamwork with many colleagues taking on responsibility for walking and toileting her during the day.

“My goal is to have Grace reach out to community and give comfort and support to community members of all ages or who are feeling anxious or low in mood. “