Fitzroy Crossing, Western Australia.

The Fitzroy Valley Respite Service was established in January 2009 as an innovative approach to providing respite for Carers of people with mental illness, psychiatric and or intellectual disability living in remote towns and surrounding communities in the Fitzroy Valley. It operates out of Kurnangki Hall in Fitzroy Crossing and serves the surrounding 45 communities.

The service is operated by a Coordinator and a small team of Support Workers who deliver respite to Carers and the people they care for, giving Carers a break from their usual caring role.

Taking into account that the majority of clients are Aboriginal, the service has made it a priority to develop a range of activities that are culturally appropriate for the client group and which enable clients to retain a sense dignity while in our care. Activities include bush camping trips, fishing along the river, and visits to family in Derby and Broome.

In addition to trips away from their home and community, the service provides a range of activities for clients based out of Kurnangki Hall. Activities can include centre-based pursuits such as arts and craft. Day trips take clients to favourite places both in town and in the restful bush and gorges nearby.

Funding is provided by the Australian Government Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs under their National Respite Development Fund (Mental Health Respite Program).