QCS officers help First Nations prisoners celebrate cultural heritage

Capricornia Correctional Centre is helping First Nations prisoners to rehabilitate and connect with culture through art during NAIDOC week.

Cultural Liaison Officer Anthony said the NAIDOC art competition held each year at the correctional centre had a positive impact on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander prisoners in QCS’ care.

“Art is a great way to achieve behavioural change and positivity by helping prisoners open up about their feelings and build confidence,” he said.

“Maintaining strong connections to culture and community is an important part of the rehabilitation journey.

“We are committed to supporting First Nations prisoners to break the cycle of reoffending, go on to lead productive lives and make a fresh start.”

This year, 20 prisoners entered the NAIDOC art competition. Elders from Mackay, Woorabinda and

Rockhampton will visit the correctional centre to judge the top three winners this week (13 July).

All completed artworks will be displayed around the correctional centre in coming days.