Odyssey Victoria

05/06/2026

Residents from our Circuit Breaker Residential Rehabilitation program near Benalla attended the Marmungan Rock Ceremony at Apex Park in Wangaratta last week, as part of National Reconciliation Week.
The community event included a Welcome to Country, traditional performances and a smoking ceremony, creating a meaningful space for reflection, connection and cultural celebration.

A highlight of the ceremony was the unveiling of the carved handprint of 2026 Wangaratta Citizen of the Year, Bevan Tremellan. His handprint now sits alongside others on the Marmungan Rock, recognising his integrity, wisdom and contribution to the community.

Residents also enjoyed a relaxed afternoon connecting with the community, sharing a sausage sizzle, coffee from local café The Vue, and a yarn with local Aboriginal artist Chris Thorne.

02/06/2026

First Nations residents from our Lower Plenty Residential Rehabilitation program recently had the opportunity to attend Dreamtime at the ‘G, coming together to celebrate culture, community and footy on one of the country’s biggest stages.

It was a powerful evening, marked by moving pre-game ceremonies, strong First Nations representation, and an atmosphere of pride and connection. Attending as a group made the experience even more meaningful, creating space to share in the excitement while reflecting on the importance of culture being recognised and celebrated so visibly.

30/05/2026

Thought for a Sunday...

29/05/2026

Nestled along the banks of the Birrarung (Yarra) River, our Lower Plenty Residential Rehabilitation service is surrounded by natural beauty.

Recently, one of our staff, an avid photographer, captured these quiet moments.

A note from the photographer:
There are many ways I could describe these photos. I could talk about the quiet interactions beneath the tree on a chilly morning - someone pointing out the glistening webs, or another joining me as I captured them. I could draw on metaphors about how the same web can appear entirely different depending on perspective. I could reflect on finding beauty in the everyday, if we only look closely enough.
But instead, I’ll simply leave these images here, allowing each person to take from them what they will, because that is the true beauty of art and nature.

27/05/2026

Co***ne availability has reached a record high globally, with production increasing to 3,708 tons in 2023. In Australia, co***ne use remains among the highest per capita globally, with 4.5% of people aged 14+ reporting past-year use in 2022-23 and wastewater data showing post-COVID increased consumption. While frequency of use remains mostly occasional, co***ne-related deaths increased between 2000 and 2023, mostly from toxicity and cardiovascular events. Hospitalisations and treatment episodes also rose.

This bulletin introduces a new Trends in Drug Markets, Use and Health Impacts in Australia series within Drug Trends, which brings together concise, high-level insights on key indicators in an accessible format.

26/05/2026

Have you ever wondered what your life would look like without alcohol? Here some people talk about how they feel now they have stopped drinking alcohol.

Here's what you had to say about leaving alcohol behind and how it's impacted your health, friendships and lifestyle.

22/05/2026

Recently residents and staff had the privilege of attending the Indigenous Land Management, Bush Foods and Cultural Heritage Tour at , delivered by Uncle Dave Wandin.

The experience provided residents with an opportunity to connect with Country, culture, and history in a meaningful and immersive way. Uncle Dave shared extensive knowledge around traditional land management practices, the significance of native bush foods, and the importance of caring for and respecting the land.

The tour created space for reflection, connection, and shared learning, while also strengthening cultural understanding and respect. A particularly special moment when Bunjil, the creator spirit represented by the wedge-tailed eagle in Wurundjeri culture, was seen soaring above the group during the tour.

20/05/2026

We are proud to support the work of the First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria (Gellung Warl). In our work, we know that when you listen to the people most impacted, you achieve stronger, more meaningful outcomes.

Congratulations to the newly democratically elected Co‑Chairs and Members of Gellung Warl. We are especially pleased to acknowledge Odyssey Victoria Board member Jarvis Atkinson, who has been elected as a Member of the Assembly.

As Victoria moves forward in the Treaty era, we look forward to working alongside the Assembly to support Aboriginal communities to lead with local knowledge and deliver practical, community‑driven solutions.