Two Decades of Connection and Growth
For the past 20 years, Derech Eretz has been a cornerstone of our partnership with First Nations communities, connecting young Jewish adults with the predominantly Indigenous communities of Toomelah and Boggabilla on the NSW/QLD border. This immersive leadership and volunteering program fosters long-term relationships grounded in respect, cultural exchange, and solidarity. The program’s name, Derech Eretz (Hebrew for “the way of the land) speaks to the deep, enduring connection forged between our communities.
Program Overview
Derech Eretz runs twice a year in January and July. Participants spend 10 days in the communities of Toomelah and Boggabilla, located on the NSW-Queensland border. These visits allow enough time to form meaningful connections while contributing to valuable community initiatives.
Participants engage in an immersive cultural experience.
- Cultural exchange - guided by Elders and leaders, participants hear first-hand the experiences, histories and cultures of Toomelah and Boggabilla
- Community engagement - build relationships with community members. Become part of the longstanding bond grounded in connection, trust and mutual respect
- School holiday activities - Coordinating activities for young community members, such as sports, crafts, and swimming in the local creeks.
Why Participate?
This is more than a trip, it’s a transformative journey that invites participants to:
- Reflect on Jewish values in the context of contemporary Australian justice issues
- Stand in solidarity with Indigenous communities through listening and action
- Build friendships rooted in humility and mutual respect
A Legacy of Relationship Building
For two decades, Jewish volunteers have traveled to Toomelah and Boggabilla, gradually transforming initial connections into deep, respectful relationships that span generations. The program's longevity speaks to its significance: in a country still grappling with reconciliation, Derech Eretz offers a model for meaningful engagement across cultural divides.
Get Involved
Applications for Derech Eretz x AUJS July 2025 are now closed. Our next trip in in January 2026.
Find out more about how you can be part of this powerful experience, contact us at [email protected]