A community-led public health awareness day ‘Keeping Our Mob Healthy,’ was recently held at Jubullum Community Health Post, located close to Bonalbo Community Health Centre.
Uncle Ernest led a heartfelt Welcome to Country at the event held in late May, which was a true team effort. The occasion was made possible through the strong support and collaboration of the local community, the Jubullum Land Council, Aboriginal Health, Pathology North, and the Population and Public Health team, all coming together to create a meaningful and inclusive gathering.
“Everyone brought their passion for health, wellbeing and connection to Country,” said Kirsty Browne, CNC TB Coordinator, Tuberculosis (TB) Service.
“It was an honour to be warmly welcomed to Country by Uncle Ernest. He shared powerful words of wisdom, respect, caring, and love for our visits to Country.”
The Tuberculosis Service, alongside Pathology North, offered TB screening and had a good yarn about what TB is, how to spot the signs like a cough, fever, night sweats or unexplained weight loss, and why it’s important to see a doctor early.
There was also a strong focus on immunisation, with Virginia Paden, our Aboriginal Immunisation Support Officer, sharing helpful information and resources about keeping our kids strong and protected.
The Environmental Health Team, Gregory McAvoy and Thom Bruce, were on hand to chat about caring for Country and keeping our environments healthy. They covered everything from mosquito control to managing mould – and even helped on the BBQ!
“This has been a fabulous opportunity to engage and connect and make sure our mob has access to public health. We’re looking forward to doing this more often,” said Kirsty.
“A big thank you to the Jubullum Land Council for backing the event and putting on a great BBQ. And a heartfelt thanks to MaryAnne Pholi, Aboriginal Health Officer Jubullum Community Health Post, for her guidance in pulling the day together.
“And finally, a massive thank you to Community for leading the way in making this health event such a success. We couldn’t have done it without you.”
Pictured:
Back row: Sean Campbell, Gregory McAvoy, Thomas Bruce, Larrisa Smyth, Uncle Ernest, Kirsty Browne, MaryAnne Pholi, Fiona Close, Virginia Paden, Michelle Nagas
Front row: Ros Jessica Dade, Nisha Pillai, Kara Wilson