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At headspace Coffs Harbour, creating safe, inclusive spaces for young people is at the heart of the work—and the Girls Grow Group is a powerful example of this in action.
Designed for young women aged 14–16 years, the program brings together students identified by Orara High School as disengaging from sport. It provides a small, supportive environment where young people can reconnect, build confidence and develop a stronger sense of belonging.
A Safe Space to Be Seen, Heard and Supported
Through guided discussions and strengths-based activities, the Girls Grow Group supports young people to:
- Build confidence and a strong sense of identity
- Develop communication, boundary-setting and conflict resolution skills
- Understand safe and respectful relationships
- Identify trusted supports
As one of the program’s key messages highlights:
“Healthy relationships should feel safe, respectful and supportive.”
Sessions are intentionally relational and discussion-focused, creating space for young people to learn from one another and reflect on their emotional wellbeing—especially for those who may feel disconnected in traditional classroom settings.
Culturally Safe and Trauma-Informed
The program is delivered in a culturally inclusive and trauma-informed way, acknowledging the diverse backgrounds of participants, including Yazidi young women.
Students are supported to explore what safety, respect and relationships mean to them personally, while feeling confident to share their cultural values and experiences without judgement—building both connection and mutual understanding.
Real Impact
Across the program, young people showed:
- Increased confidence in expressing themselves
- Stronger peer connection and belonging
- Greater understanding of healthy relationships
- Improved help-seeking and awareness of support systems
Another key message that resonated strongly:
“Healthy relationships begin with understanding what matters to you.”
Recognising Leadership and Partnership
This impactful work reflects the strength of relationships built by headspace Coffs Harbour, with particular recognition to Alexa Callon-Butler for her leadership in developing the program and fostering strong engagement with young people.
We also congratulate Alexa in successfully securing final Bachelor of Social Work placement with Mid North Coast Local Health District—a significant achievement and reflection of her commitment to the sector and the young people she supports.
Health Voyage values the strong and ongoing working partnership with the Wellbeing Team at Orara High School, whose collaboration is critical in supporting student engagement and wellbeing outcomes.
Looking Ahead
Programs like Girls Grow remind us that when young people feel safe, heard and connected, they are better equipped to understand their value, build healthy relationships and thrive.
At Health Voyage, we are proud to support programs that empower young people to grow in confidence, connection and wellbeing.
headspace Coffs Harbour is delivered locally by Health Voyage and is part of the national headspace network. headspace Coffs Harbour is funded by Healthy North Coast through the North Coast PHN Program.
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