Rock and Water Program
The Rock and Water Program , which originated at the Family Action Centre at Newcastle University, operates in the Coffs Harbour area. It presents an innovative way for working with boys and adolescent males, by using a range of fun, competitive and action oriented exercises to teach boys such skills as conflict resolution, body awareness, boundary awareness, breath strength, body language and how to stand strong physically and mentally.
Program facilitator is Paul Edwards, Phone: (02) 6656 7904
Paul is a Clinical Nurse Specialist with the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Statewide Network (CAMHSNET). Paul is currently undertaking doctoral studies related to rural adolescent males and their perceptions of anger and aggression and has completed the Advanced Training for The Rock and Water Program.
In Spring 2005, Paul partnered with two local highschools to conduct the 'Rock and Water Program' (10 week program for year 8 & 9 boys). This year he will be partnering with 4 schools, and by the end of 2006 approx. 320 boys will have participated in the program. He is also conducting one day seminars for professionals who work with boys in various settings, introducing them to the RWP. The idea behind this is to give people a range of innovative and evidence based strategies to use when working with boys, also to facilitate the Rock and Water Program in various settings so as to reduce the referrals to mental health and engage with boys away from the associated stigma of Mental Health.