About the 'Walking with Grief' Project

The Walking with Grief Project is the heart work of several passionate women who truly believe in the power of nature. Entwining their stories, wisdoms, and diverse mix of personal and professional backgrounds, these women share a vision that calls us back to nature, and onto the quiet, gentle reverence of forest trails. We understand that grief does not disappear, but rather our lives may expand to grow around it.

Expanding, growing and finding beginnings around who or what has been lost.

The Grief Centre has partnered with Right Foot Forward WA to walk with you in nature. To be present with you on your journey of grief after loss. Our intention is to honour the significance and impact of loss while actively engaging with the nurturing qualities of nature - to nurture nature as nature so often nurtures us. Funded by the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries, this Project provides a wonderful opportunity for our volunteers, staff and community to be a part of bringing this initiative to life.

The Project is the co-creation of Grief Centre Volunteers, Mental Health Professionals and Outdoor Educators. Grounded in passionate endeavour, reflective inquiry, and best practice values, this project has grown from these women’s collective wisdom and lived experience of loss.

When I walked in nature, may it be bushland or beach, I felt a connection to the earth, which grounded me. Albeit at the time I was confused and distraught, but in time I started to feel a shift in my steps, in my heart. Nature mirrored my emotions on so many levels, the sounds, the smells and the movements. In time I felt his presence, and I knew in nature I would no longer be alone. In time I found gratitude.

These walks are not dependent on fitness or skill. The purpose is to get back to nature and make space for your significant experiences of loss. Furthermore, we will speak with you to ensure you feel supported before, during and after the walk. Please know that the pace of steps we take together, is completely directed by you. Understanding that our greatest hope with this project is to connect with nature and allow nature to be what supports and holds us.

Acknowledgement of Traditional Ownership

At every step of the way, the Walking with Grief Project, will take the time to honour the wisdom of the traditional custodians of the Land on which we walk. We acknowledge that the local Aboriginal people of the Whadjuk Noongar clan, know this Land, they understand this Land, and who in their connection with this Land, have so much to teach us.

As we walk the trails, we will listen and connect with the Land.

Together we will touch the ground of the Land.

We will reach for the Sky that covers the Land.

We will touch our Hearts in care of the Land.

Nidja Whadjuk Noongar Boodja

This is Whadjuk Noongar Country!

Our current Walking with Grief Project is targeted at school aged students who have experienced trauma. We will be delivering hikes into the Bindoon and Northam areas of the Wheatbelt.

The Walking With Grief Project