The Wire

The disintegration of ATSIC was a social disaster for many communities, and Redfern was just one of these to feel the affects. The Federal Government decided to abolish funding for a redfern gym on the basis that too many white people used it for it to be considered an indigenous project. What it did not realise was that it was destroying a reconciliation success story, but owners of the gym had an iron will. With the support of sponsors from all around the country, including Energy Australia, and US doughnut chain Krispy Kreme, the gym will hold a festival tomorrow to raise money to keep the doors open. Redfern Gym Project Manager Peter Valilis says indigenous and non-indigenous friendships at the gym make it the best project he has ever seen.