James talks about growing up as an Aboriginal in Western District of Victoria, how alcohol affected his family and how alcohol and drug abuse became part of his life as he dealt with early trauma and PTSD. Sport was a constant during James’ life, providing an opportunity for participation and enduring friendships. Inevitably, his alcohol and drug use led him to have extended periods of imprisonment, which enabled him to experience a quiet time away from alcohol and drugs.  James has used the Galiamble Men’s Recovery Centre twice in his recovery, and through them has accessed Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous.

Galiamble provides a 16-week, 24-hour residential drug and alcohol healing centre and the recovery program is based on the Twelve Step abstinence model. It embraces a holistic treatment approach that recognises the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of Aboriginal people.

For more information contact:

• Galiamble Men’s Recovery Centre on 03 9534 1602, email them on intake@ngwala.org.au or go online at ngwala.org.au.
• Alcoholics Anonymous on 1300 222 222 or check out their website aa.org.au.
• Narcotics Anonymous on 1300 652 820 at any time, or go online at na.org.au

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Music played in this episode was provided by the artists, via Australian Music Radio Airplay Project (https://amrap.org.au/):

• @16:55 - Running for Days by Cars Have Faces (https://amrap.org.au/release/cars-have-faces-running-for-days)
• @35:18 - Journey of your Life by Hope River Road (https://amrap.org.au/track/hope-river-road-journey-of-your-life)
• @55:38 - Rare Phenomenon by Rare Phenomenon (https://amrap.org.au/track/rare-phenomenon-rare-phenomenon)