A Journey of Healing and Heart
Discover Aunty Loraine's Legacy
Explore the inspiring story of Aunty Loraine Peeters, a true story of hope and resilience, whose pioneering work with the Marumali Program® has transformed countless lives.
Aunty Loraine Peeters
Aunty Loraine Peeters, a proud member of the Stolen Generations, has dedicated her life to healing and empowerment. Her journey began with personal experiences of trauma and resilience, which fueled her passion for creating the Marumali Program®. This nationally acclaimed initiative provides culturally safe, trauma-informed support to individuals, families, and communities affected by the policies of forcible removal. Aunty Loraine’s work is deeply rooted in cultural knowledge and lived experience, offering a pathway to healing and reconnection for Stolen Generations survivors and their descendants.
Milestones in Aunty Loraine's Journey
Trace the significant events that have shaped Aunty Loraine’s impactful work and contributions to the community.
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A Childhood Disrupted
At a young age, Aunty Loraine was forcibly removed from her family, an experience that profoundly influenced her life’s mission.
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A Voice for Change
In October 1994 whilst attending a Link-Up NSW reunion in Sydney for Coota Girls and ex-residents of Kinchella Boys and Bomaderry Homes, Aunty Lorraine’s healing journey began.
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Founding the Marumali Program®
In response to the need for culturally safe healing pathways, Aunty Loraine established the Marumali Program®, offering hope and support to many.
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Healing Commences
The Marumali Program® first piloted at Fulham Correctional Centre in May 2002 by GEO Group Australia, and since then more than 600 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men and women have benefited from the program in correctional centres across Victoria.
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Healing Continues
The Marumali Program® expands to further support the intergenerational impacts with two Youth programs, continuing healing through community.
Core Principles of the Marumali Program®
The Marumali Program® is built on a foundation of cultural respect, healing, and empowerment. It is designed to support individuals in reclaiming their identity and strengthening their connection to their heritage.
Cultural Safety
Ensuring a culturally safe environment where participants feel respected and understood is at the heart of the Marumali Program®.
Trauma-Informed Approach
Our framework is sensitive to the impacts of trauma, providing a supportive pathway for healing and recovery.
Empowerment and Resilience
We focus on strengthening, empowering individuals to build resilience and foster a renewed sense of purpose and belonging.
What Participants Are Saying
“It’s changed my life forever,” another participant said. “It’s given me a new direction in thinking about my identity and the importance of connecting to culture for my babies.”
“Meeting Aunty Lorraine and sister Shaan was the best thing that has ever happened to me,” one participant said. “This course has strengthened me and it will change how I see the future. My spirit is free.”
“I didn’t know then how much impact that the program would have on my life, and still today, I look fondly back at that time. I have been able to make connect with my natural Mother, and understand what she went through living on Burnt Bridge Mission back in 1959”