How Sing&Grow and Ngukuthati are Reaching Families in Remote Queensland

Located in Queensland's north-west, Mount Isa is home to a rich and diverse community, including a significant Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander population. With more than one in five residents identifying as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander, culturally safe and community-led approaches play an important role in supporting children and families during the early years.

That commitment has seen a long-standing partnership with Sing&Grow, which has become a valued part of Ngukuthati Children & Family Centre's early years offering.

"As an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children and Family Centre, we are always looking for programs that are welcoming, inclusive and relationship-based," said Megan Boyle, who facilitates the playgroup program at Ngukuthati.

"Our partnership was established because we recognised the value of music as a powerful and accessible way to support children's development while strengthening parent-child relationships."

Over the years, Sing&Grow has become much more than a therapeutic service within the centre's playgroup program. It has become a trusted pathway for families to build confidence, strengthen relationships and engage with wider early years supports.

For families living in regional and remote communities, accessing specialist services can often be challenging. The partnership between Ngukuthati and Sing&Grow demonstrates how strong local relationships and flexible service delivery can ensure children and families continue to benefit from evidence-based support, regardless of distance.

"Delivering Sing&Grow within our trusted community setting removes many barriers that families can experience when accessing services," Megan said.

"Families already feel comfortable attending Ngukuthati, so participating in Sing&Grow feels like a natural extension of their existing support network."

This community-based approach increases participation, strengthens relationships and allows programs to be delivered in ways that respect local culture, community priorities and family circumstances.

"The greatest impact we have observed is that families continue using what they have learned long after the program finishes," Megan said.

"Parents tell us they continue singing favourite songs at home, while children often remember the routines and eagerly join in when similar activities are introduced at playgroup. These simple interactions strengthen attachment, encourage language development and make everyday family routines more enjoyable."

The benefits extend beyond participating families. The Ngukuthati team has also gained practical strategies that can be embedded into everyday service delivery long after the group therapy sessions conclude.

"Our team has gained valuable ideas around using music intentionally to support engagement, transitions and emotional regulation during playgroup sessions. These strategies complement our existing relationship-based and trauma-informed approach to working with children and families."

At the heart of the partnership is something simple but powerful: connection.

For children, families and communities in rural and remote Australia, connection can help overcome the challenges that distance sometimes creates. It is one of the reasons Sing&Grow has continued to make a meaningful impact for 25 years.

The program's success lies not only in its evidence-based music therapy foundation, but also in its ability to adapt to the needs of communities across Australia. Whether delivered face-to-face, online, or through a blended model, Sing&Grow continues to bring families together through music, play and shared experiences.

For Ngukuthati Children & Family Centre, the partnership demonstrates what is possible when organisations work together with a shared commitment to supporting children and families.

"Our experience has always been one of genuine partnership," Megan said.

"The Sing&Grow team are approachable, collaborative and responsive to the needs of our service and community. We value the relationship we've built over the years and look forward to continuing our partnership into the future."