In an institution, freedom can be found only briefly - if at all. For Vickie brief moments of creativity and freedom were felt in the early hours, while the jail was still and quiet. But keeping culture and connecting with the Aboriginal spirit can feel impossible when you’re locked up. The Aboriginal culture is ancient, strong and ever-present in First Nations people; culture remains in the spirits of mob in prison, even when their physical presence to the land is cut off. 

In this episode, Kutcha and Vickie explore how inmates find creative expression, engage in the healing process and learn about culture while on the “inside”. Vickie shares how she found moments of peace during her time in prison through her creativity, daydreaming, writing and strengthening her spiritual connections.

In today’s episode, we hear from Roy, Jody, James, Danielle, and others in prisons across Victoria and “Beyond the Bars” broadcasters Shiralee Hood, Kerri-Lee Harding, and Johnny Mac.