Who We Are

The Becoming U program is an extremely valuable service for a community like Nambucca Heads which has a high level of disadvantage. As a proud Gumbaynggirr and Biripi man, I am spiritually and culturally connected to this country and our community. I have a passion to improve support services to ensure the capacity of Aboriginal communities and individuals are being met. I support and am committed to regularly referring youths in my community to this valuable program in Nambucca Heads. I often come across young people in need of educational and career experience, inspiration, as well as appropriate mentors to guide them on this journey. This program will be of value in supporting youths overcome social, cultural and financial barriers that limit their ability to participate equally in the workforce which is vital for Nambucca to grow and prosper and to assist our next generation have positive outcomes in the future.

Uncle Terry is currently a Knowledge Translation Facilitator for Neuroscience Research Australia and has had a diverse career from military service, working in local government and non-for–profit community services to providing education to health professionals on Aboriginal Cultural awareness. Additionally, Terry worked with the National Parks & Wildlife Service of NSW as one of 3 Aboriginal Sites Officers, was an Aboriginal Case Worker – Youth Support Worker and an Aboriginal Housing Corporation Coordinator.

My name is Danny Ryan and the Nambucca Valley has been our home for over 30 years. I have worked in Bowraville, Macksville and Nambucca Heads. As a doctor I have had the privilege of getting to know people of all ages, often at difficult times in their lives.  I have learnt a lot over the years, especially from our local Aboriginal community and from the staff and patients at Macksville Hospital. One particular lesson I have learnt is that if we want to do better as a community, we have to work together and do it ourselves, not wait for outsiders. Becoming U is locally grown. If it's about young people being given the opportunity, through local support, to challenge each other and support each other to be better people, I am keen to offer whatever little bit of support and advice I can.

Jo has had the pleasure of being a teacher, head teacher, Deputy Principal and Acting Principal at Nambucca Heads High school for the last 25 years. Jo has a passion for helping young people achieve their potential and loves living and working in Nambucca Heads. Jo is excited to continue to share her experience and knowledge gained from working closely with young people, to support Uniting to promote a positive future for youth in our community.

I graduated from Nambucca High School in 2018 and had the pleasure of working as a Community Connector for Uniting's Becoming U program for the past two years, recently joining their Leadership Advisory Group. I always had the desire to work alongside young people, as it provides me with a great sense of fulfilment when helping others. In 2021 I completed my Bachelor of Laws degree at Southern Cross University. I also lead International Aid Initiative – The Fiji Project. I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to give back to a community that has given so much to me.