The Shire of Broome has approved a significant upgrade to the Yawardani Jan-ga equine assisted learning facility, enhancing its capacity to support young Aboriginal people. This initiative focuses on improving social and emotional well-being through interaction with horses. The development plan includes the construction of horse stables, two shade structures, horse arenas, and new fencing.
Juli Coffin, the founder of Yawardani Jan-ga, expressed enthusiasm about the upgrades, stating that they will allow the program to operate effectively throughout the wet season. “It means we can actually offer the program for a lot longer period through the year, where the wet season really dictates what we can do,” she said.
With the current facilities, horses had to be relocated during the wet months due to inadequate cooling and space. This upgrade will keep the horses comfortable and available for the program year-round, representing a significant benefit for the community. “Particularly around that wet season, there’s not a lot on offer for young people to do in town. Being able to keep the horses here and keep the program going through that time is huge,” Coffin added.
The initiative aims to create a culturally responsive environment for Aboriginal youth, fostering connections with family and the land. “It’s about building positive relationships and giving them a space that feels like theirs,” Coffin noted.
The council’s decision, made during the ordinary meeting on September 18, 2023, was unanimously supported. Despite this, a resident raised concerns regarding the exercise of horses in areas that may require a license. Deputy President Desiree Male addressed these concerns, assuring the public that the shire would monitor compliance with regulations.
“I just want to reiterate what was asked on Tuesday, just for the benefit of anyone in viewing, there was obviously some correspondence received from a member of the public expressing concerns about the horses being exercised in areas that are otherwise prohibited without a licence,” Male stated.
Coffin hopes to complete the facility upgrades in time for the 2026-27 wet season, marking a new chapter for the Yawardani Jan-ga program and its positive impact on the local community. The enhancements are expected to significantly expand the program’s offerings, providing a vital resource for young people in the area.
