Welcome,
Onwards & Upwards NQ is a private, non-profit support group dedicated to assisting individuals impacted by incarceration, child safety, and healthcare challenges. We provide a safe, inclusive space for individuals seeking guidance, connection, and empowerment as they navigate life’s challenges.
We believe in fostering culture, fellowship, and outreach, ensuring that everyone—regardless of their background—has the opportunity to move forward with dignity and support. If you or someone you know could benefit from our services, or if you’d like to volunteer, we welcome you to connect with us. Together, we can create lasting positive change.
This supportive community is dedicated to friends and families of inmates at the Townsville Correctional Centre. Our mission is to provide a safe space for sharing experiences, seeking advice, and finding encouragement. We aim to address the challenges of incarceration, combat isolation, and foster resilience through peer support and education. Join us for discussions, resources, and information on navigating the correctional system. Together, we can uplift each other and create a positive impact in our lives. Remember, you are not alone—let’s move forward together!
This is a private non-profit support group that is in no way affiliated with corrections or any other organisation or government body.
Onwards & Upwards NQ: Building Community and Support for Families Affected by Incarceration
Since its inception in late 2024, Onwards & Upwards NQ has emerged as a vital peer-led community dedicated to supporting individuals and families navigating the challenges associated with incarceration, child safety, and healthcare systems. Operating primarily in Townsville, Queensland, the organization offers a range of practical, emotional, and educational services aimed at fostering resilience, healing, and connection.
Key initiatives include the Helping Hands Shelves, a grassroots resource station providing free clothing, toiletries, and essential items to those in need, including homeless individuals, women leaving domestic violence situations, and people transitioning out of correctional facilities. To date, over 400 visits have been supported through this program alone.
The organization also manages online communities such as the Townsville Correctional Centre Families & Friends Facebook Group, which has rapidly expanded to over 260 members. This space offers peer support, shared experiences, and system navigation tips, creating a safe environment for families dealing with the incarceration of loved ones. Their Facebook page further enhances outreach and engagement, attracting hundreds of weekly views and fostering active participation.
In addition, Onwards & Upwards NQ hosts informal in-person meetings and offers one-on-one support sessions to provide personalized assistance, including help with legal paperwork, referrals, and emotional support. They also produce educational resources, including guides and videos, to bridge knowledge gaps about the correctional system and reintegration processes.
Leadership highlights the importance of partnerships to sustain and expand their efforts, including collaborations with correctional facilities, community organizations, legal service providers, and Elders for Change. Future plans focus on developing online support groups, establishing peer networks of ex-inmates, securing funding, and refining organizational structures to enhance service delivery.
Community feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing appreciation for the organization's compassionate approach and the tangible support provided during difficult times. Through their dedicated work, Onwards & Upwards NQ continues to empower families, foster community resilience, and promote positive change for those affected by incarceration.
This inspiring initiative exemplifies how community-led efforts can create meaningful support networks that uplift vulnerable populations and strengthen social bonds.