The session was held to bring awareness about the centre and the program that they run.

The centre is for aboriginal boys aged between 12 and 15 years of age and provides the boys with an education in school based learning, sport and recreational activities, life and living skills, behavioural issues and cultural activities.

Tirkandi Inaburra youth worker Joey Longford wanted to clear up any misunderstanding about the development centre

“Some people don't even know that it’s out there,” Mr Longford said.

“There is a misconception that it’s a juvenile justice centre but it’s not.

“It’s strictly voluntary and there are certain boxes that the boys have to tick before their accepted.

“It's (information session) to let the community know where we are, who we are, what we're about, once again our philosophy – promoting resilience to become that stronger person.”

The centre, located near Coleambally, has started to introduce more initiatives into their program to aid students.

“When you’re working with kids you always need a good outcome, they're our future,” he said.

“In December, Tirkandi will be 10 years old. 

“It’s old enough to get better in that sense, so we're out there trying to improve and also network and get people on board.

“There is a bit of an issue with the after care because they (students) do well and then go home and then they slowly fall back into their old habits.

“We've actually contacted Centacare in Griffith, Wagga and Leeton.

“They're going to help us build up our after care.”

Some of the main eligibility criteria to Tirkandi include to not have come in contact with the law or any violence and to have an above average attendance at school.

The full criteria can be seen at http://www.tirkandi.org.au.

If a child matches the criteria and appears eligible please contact Tirkandi Inaburra Cultural and Development Centre on 0269544800 or free call 1800 759 040.