CROSSROADS is an exciting new project model, which was delivered with the Indigenous communities of Moree and Bourke, NSW in 2023. Based on the findings of independent evaluations of DPMs projects, DPM has developed this new, longer-term engagement model, with a focus on skills development, leadership, storytelling and cultural education. 

CROSSROADS is a community engagement program designed to empower Indigenous communities through impactful workshops and creative media productions. With a focus on young people, cultural connection, mental health/wellbeing, and leadership mentoring/skills development - the project uses cutting-edge media creation (film, music, and digital media), Leadership Camps, Cultural Exchange, Mentoring Processes and Cultural Events to engage and support Indigenous community members to share their stories, build confidence and skills and inspire positive social change.

Key impact objectives of the project include:

• Community & Cultural Connection

• Identity and Wellbeing

• Producing Meaningful Media

• Amplifying indigenous voices

• Social Inclusion & Engagement

• Skills Development, Employment and Opportunity

• Connecting participants with Support Networks

Key Project Activities delivered in Moree and Bourke:

• Music and Digital Storytelling Projects

• Skills Development Intensives

• Cultural Exchange Camps

• Community Events showcasing all the work produced throughout the project.

Key Outcomes:

• 4 music videos produced

• A sequence of short films produced

• Skills Development training delivered

• Community Media Kits delivered to each community (inc. Cameras, tripods, laptops, microphones and other equipment)

• Cultural Exchange Camp delivered with cultural educators in Bourke and Moree

• Community Events in Moree and Bourke - with huge local participation and attendance.

Through the Consultation and Co-Design process, we identified a number of community partners including Maranguka, Just Reinvest Moree and Miyay Birray Youth Service that actively worked with DPM to maximise community impacts and create legacy in community. Also a sequence of sponsors donated equipment for community media kits including: Store DJ, Sun Studios, Canon, Rode Microphones, Amber Technologies, Technical Audio Group, Zoom Australia.

The project was funded through NSW Government via the “Our Region, Our Voice” program through the Office for Regional Youth.