Girls on Country is a Movement - lifting up young First Nations women, offering them space to explore, breathe, connect, and step into their power.
Through camps, cultural experiences, and leadership, we ignite identity, strength, and unstoppable potential.
This program is based in Mparntwe (Alice Springs), built on strong relationships we hold here, and cannot be delivered elsewhere.
The What!
At Girls on Country, we believe in the strength, wisdom, and limitless potential of our young First Nation women. This program is more than just an initiative—it’s a movement, a safe space, and a community built on love, trust, and belonging.
For the past six years, Girls on Country has been a steady and trusted presence, creating opportunities for young women in Alice Springs and beyond. It was born out of a deep need to counterbalance the overwhelming support available for young men while addressing the stark disparity our girls face. Too often, they are left with fewer options, higher risks of a sedentary lifestyle, and obstacles that make success feel out of reach. This program exists to shift that narrative—to provide them with the tools, confidence, and space to explore who they are and who they want to become.
Over the years, Girls on Country has evolved, and in 2025, we are expanding our reach to neighboring communities, ensuring more young women have access to the support, cultural connection, and opportunities they deserve. Like caterpillars in their early stages, they are given the time, nourishment, and security they need to develop their wings. Through movement, cultural experiences, self-exploration activities, and meaningful discussions on domestic violence and safety, we walk alongside them as they shape their future.
This program is not about telling young women what their journey should be—it’s about showing them that they hold the power to carve their own path. Every camp, every conversation, and every shared experience reinforces that they are capable, valued, and deeply loved.
They are not alone. They are seen. And their future is theirs to write.
Meet out incredible Team.
Naomi Hayes - Co Facilitator
Naomi is a proud First Nations woman and devoted mother to four beautiful and talented daughters who inspire her every day. With extensive experience in the education system, she has dedicated her career to shaping inclusive spaces where every young person feels seen, valued, and supported.
A passionate advocate for diversity and equity, Naomi has worked tirelessly to break down barriers and create opportunities for those who are often left on the margins. Her leadership, grounded in cultural strength and deep community connection, makes her a powerful role model for both her daughters and the wider community.
Naomi continues to influence positive change by combining her lived experience, professional expertise, and unwavering commitment to ensuring all voices are heard. She stands as an example of strength, resilience, and possibility for the next generation.
Katie Thompson
Growing up in the outdoors of New Zealand, I developed a deep connection to Country and learned firsthand how the land shapes who we are. It’s not just about being in nature—it’s about understanding the land’s stories, rhythms, and lessons. Having practical skills and a grounded sense of connection has taught me to value life and the relationships we build with the world around us.
I moved to Mparntwe in 2010 and worked for many years as Lead Hiking Guide and Camp Safari Guide for Walking Country and Wayoutback Safaris. I bring practical skills, a passion for people and the ability to educate in a way that is fun and meaningful. Relationships are my energy source and what motivates me to push for a platform for these girls to be seen and heard.
I have lived experience of complex trauma, and know the journey of trying to heal from this. For me this continues to be a part of my healing journey - educating some of Australia’s most vulnerable around healthy relationships and creating a truly safe space for them to just be.
Jodie Raynor
Jodie is a proud Kiwi with Māori heritage who carries her culture, cultural integrity and values into every space she works. With extensive experience across education settings, Jodie has dedicated her career to supporting young people and communities through trauma-informed approaches that prioritise safety, trust, and belonging.
On camps and excursions, she brings warmth, humour, and authenticity, creating spaces where young people not only learn but also feel empowered, respected, and celebrated for who they are. Jodie’s combination of cultural strength, professional expertise, and genuine care makes her an invaluable role model and leader within our programs.
Mia Kurrajong
Mia brings energy, heart, and a skater-girl spirit to our team. She has a special gift for connecting one-on-one with kids, taking the time to help them explore, question, and gain a deeper understanding of their environment and the world around them.
Whether she’s leading a conversation, encouraging curiosity, or simply sitting alongside a young person, Mia creates moments that matter. On camps and excursions, she’s often right in the thick of things — usually in the middle of a card game, laughing the loudest, and making sure fun is never in short supply.
Mia’s mix of playfulness, insight, and genuine care makes her a favourite with kids and an invaluable part of our crew.
Partners in Impact
Program Partner
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Corporate Partner - Swisse Wellness
2019 - 2025
Swisse Wellness has been with us since the very beginning. For the past six years, their financial support has made Girls on Country possible — this program simply wouldn’t exist without their commitment as our founding corporate partner.
Community Allies
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Community Ally - Power Water Corporation 2025
Power and Water Corporation enabled us to deliver a truly transformative Domestic Violence Awareness Camp by funding specialist educators to work directly with our girls. Their support ensured the young women could access this powerful knowledge in a safe, culturally respectful space — equipping them with awareness, strength, and tools that will ripple out into their families and communities.
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Community Ally - Living Waters Lutheran School 2024 - Present
Living Water Lutheran School has been a valued supporter of Girls on Country, providing the in-kind use of their bus so our girls can travel safely, share the journey together, and arrive ready to fully experience camp life. Their generosity ensures distance is never a barrier to connection, culture, and opportunity.
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Community Ally - Jetcor Yamaha Honda & Harley-Davidson
Jetcor Yamaha, Honda & Harley-Davidson proudly back Girls on Country with the in-kind use of their Hilux and trucks, making sure all the girls’ equipment gets where it needs to go. Their support keeps our camps running smoothly and our girls fully equipped to thrive.
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Community Ally -Cornell Voice Advisory 2023 - Present
The Cornell Voice Advisory, under the leadership of Lucy Cornell, is an extraordinary in-kind partner of Girls on Country. Lucy brings her internationally recognised expertise in voice and advocacy to our program — not only delivering inspiring, professional sessions for our girls, but also mentoring our team to strengthen our own capacity to advocate. Her generosity empowers young women to find and use their voices with confidence, courage, and purpose — a gift that resonates far beyond each camp.
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Community Ally - Autopia Tours 2023 - Present
Autopia Tours generously supports Girls on Country by providing the use of their beautiful campsite in Tjoritja at no cost for our annual camp. Their contribution creates a safe and welcoming base where our girls can connect, learn, and grow on Country — turning each camp into an unforgettable experience.
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Community Ally - Angkerle Atwatye
Standley Chasm has been a steadfast supporter of Girls on Country, offering us camping space and reduced rates on their cultural tours, as well as ongoing encouragement for our work. Their generosity provides our girls with the chance to immerse themselves in the beauty and significance of this Women’s Dreaming place, deepening cultural connection and creating experiences that stay with them long after camp.
Girls on Country Gallery
