NAIDOC week is an opportunity for all Australians to come together and celebrate the rich history, diverse culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the oldest continuing cultures on the planet.
Every year, South West Healthcare celebrates NAIDOC Week in a really special way. Usually we hold a day of music, food and group activities but because COVID-19 stops us from doing these things we’re taking our 2020 celebrations online.
We’ve produced a half-hour film that we’re really excited about sharing with you as our gift to community. It’s called Through the Generations and features local stories connected to this year’s NAIDOC Week theme of ‘Always Was, Always Will Be.’ This theme recognises that first nation’s people have occupied and cared for this continent for over 65,000 years and are spiritually and culturally connected to this land.
Through the Generations features local artists and community members Sherry Johnstone, Aunty Vicki Couzens, Uncle Rob Lowe, Brett Clarke, Uncle Lenny Clarke and Kirrae Clarke. You’ll be able to watch the film as of November 12 when we post the link on the Facebook platforms of South West Healthcare and Wata Waetnanda. The links to lots of other online events and information will be also available by joining the community Facebook page of Wata Waetnanda.
As the Aboriginal Health & Support team, we’ve had a very busy and productive year. We’re so happy that South West Healthcare has completed its first endorsed Reconciliation Action Plan and we look forward to creating an even more culturally safe and supportive health service.
For those of you who’d like to know a little more about what we do day-to-day… Cinnamon’s our Aboriginal hospital liaison officer. Her role includes providing support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients and their families, including providing information on hospital procedures, assisting with admission and discharge planning, and advocating for patients’ needs. Emily’s our Aboriginal health promotion officer. Her role includes working closely with the community to try and close the gap in healthcare by working together on prevention, education and culturally safe programs.
This is how you can contact us: