Embed Size (px)
DESCRIPTION
Quarterly newsletter from Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation
Citation preview
Njernda Aboriginal Corporation (Njernda), formerly the Echuca Aboriginal Cooperative Pty Ltd, is in Echuca and was established in 1974 by local Aboriginal people fighting for recognition and self-determination.
Echuca is located on the Murray River in Northern Victoria and is within the traditional lands of the Yorta Yorta Nation.
On 12 December 2014 Njernda celebrated their 40th anniversary at the Dhungalla Function Centre in Moama. Over 400 community members attended the night.
Over the last 40 years Njernda
has faced many tough challenges. Through the dedication and support of Aboriginal peoples over the years, Njernda has survived all these challenges. Njernda acknowledges the many struggles that have taken place by our local people towards ensuring the physical, social, and economic needs of Aboriginal people living in Echuca and surrounding districts are met.
We believe that as the Indigenous peoples of this country we have a right to recognition, respect and positive support for our culture, heritage and traditions.
news Autumn 2015
CONTINUED OVER THE PAGE
Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation Inc. VACCHO is the peak body for Aboriginal Health in Victoria.
40Njernda Aboriginal Corporation turns
Vibrant, healthy, self-determining Aboriginal communities
Bunna Lawrie, Colin Walker, Margaret Tang, Johnny Mitchell, Dulcie Russell, Faye Walker, Melva Johnson, Des Morgan, Kaye Lamb, Barbara Day, Debra Cowley and Muriel Day cut the cakeBottom: Karlene Dwyer - Njernda Aboriginal Corporation CEO, Jill Galagher AO - VACCHO CEO and Jade Johnson
2 VACCHO NEWS Autumn 2013
To keep our cultural tradition strong we need to have a powerful Aboriginal community controlled organisation. We believe Njernda is the focus for the Echuca Aboriginal Community and it must be strong enough to stand up for the rights and viewpoints of the Community. This will signal to Echuca’s broader community that we exist and that we have a unique culture.
We believe our kids need to learn the power of their cultural heritage within our Community from our respected Elders. We believe that children who develop identity through their culture will be able to move in and out of the broader community and to achieve their aspirations without losing their cultural identity.
Njernda has continued to develop over time and now provides a number of programs including Health, Housing, Childcare and Family Services. Njernda currently employs around 95 Aboriginal peoples across the organisation.
FROM PAGE ONE
1 Njernda turns 402 Our Brothers’ Heritage 3 PapScreen Koori Community Grants The Budgets3 Victorian Aboriginal alcohol and other
drugs service providers4 Sexy health got a whole lot deadlier Boorai bundle resources now available as
a free download
5 Bullroarer Program is helping to change the lives of our young men
6 Closing the Gap7 Member worker profiles8 Victorian Aboriginal alcohol and other
drugs service providers10 CEO For a Day program 2015 VACCHO staff profile11 Around the traps
Contents
VACCHO newsletters are also available to view online at www.vaccho.org.au/news-media/nl
Our Brothers’ HeritageOur brothers have come from the Dreamtime
A land of mystery – the earth in its primeTheir soul and the land was joined as oneHere, in this country, they had a free run
Their myths and legends are fascinating talesTold around campfires by initiated males
The Rainbow Serpent and JuJu manFeatured in this land’s overall plan
They knew how to live off this great landDroughts and floods they could withstandThey would walk about from place to placeThey were a very proud and spirited race
Free from disease and with a life contentThe fruits of the land gave nourishment
They abided by strict cultural lawsTheir life was free of very few flaws
Then, upon the shores, did come a shipThat had travelled far on an arduous trip
They came to claim this land as their ownFor King, and country, and the English throne
The Aborigines saw this and shook with fearThey retaliated by throwing a spearBut that was no match for a gun
As they were slaughtered – one by one
They were rounded up and used as slavesOr else put into early graves
The ‘lucky’ ones were sent to a missionWhere their health declined from poor nutrition
No longer a proud and carefree raceThey were made to feel shame and disgrace
Citizenship was not part of their briefUnless they renounced their own belief
Like Christians before them they were persecutedCast off their land to be transmuted
The young were taken from their mothersWhy were we so cruel to our brothers
Had we the right to condemnWe should’ve really learnt from them
How to care for this wondrous countryA shared heritage we would then see
© Gaye Torney: Participant in VACCHO Cultural Safety Training
VACCHO NEWS Autumn 2015 3
PapScreen Koori Community GrantsThe grants on offer are for Aboriginal health services, organisations and other health services to raise awareness of the importance of Pap Tests and to increase the number of Aboriginal women being screened within Victoria.
The grants are non-recurrent funding of up to $3000 (plus GST) and can fund:
• Costs associated with community consultation and/or education
• Seminar and workshop costs including catering, childcare and transport arrangements
• Salary for a nurse or doctor• Promotion expenses
including advertising costs• Administration costs directly
related to the project.
Applications open Monday 27 April and close on Wednesday 1 July 2015. You will receive notification of the success of your application within two weeks of applying.
For the application form and guidelines please see www.papscreen.org.au/forhealthprofessional/grantsandscholarships/kooricommunitygrants
The Victorian BudgetA quick guide for VACCHO MembersThe Victorian Government released its budget 2015-2016 on 5 May.
The Policy and Advocacy Team at VACCHO have prepared a Victorian Budget brief that highlights the areas relevant to your organisations and communities. Visit VACCHO’s website for the budget brief (www.vaccho.org.au/policy-advocacy/ppr) and media release (www.vaccho.org.au/news-media/mr/vsb).
The first budget of the new Victorian Government is focussed on families with funding restoration to critical core services, including health and education.
• The Whole of Government focus is on family violence prevention.
• The Department of Health and Human Services focus is on investing in hospital infrastructure, child protection, mental health, AoD and disability support.
• The Department of Education and Training have invested in TAFE and early childhood development.
• The Department of Justice focus is on prison expansions.
There are only a few specifically allocated funds targeted at Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and organisations. VACCHO will therefore advocate for a fair allocation of ALL funds. This will ensure that Aboriginal people, families, communities and organisations get a fair share of the huge investment made by this Government.
The Commonwealth Government’s Budget was released on 11 May 2105.
Go to www.vaccho.org.au/policy-advocacy/ppr/ for further information.
Dhauwurd Wurrung Elderly and Community Health Service (DWECH) hosted the first Deadly Sexy Health Kit training session in April.
The Deadly Sexy Health Kit was developed by VACCHO as a resource to assist Aboriginal youth and health workers in yarning about respectful relationships, sexual health, sexuality and blood borne viruses.
Aboriginal Health Workers, nurses and midwives joined VACCHO’s Tarneen Onus-Williams and Kat Byron in two days of hands-on, interactive sexy health training. The feedback from participants was positive and they enjoyed the relaxed environment, deadly yarns and having no PowerPoint presentations.
“I love teaching my mob about sexual health, in the training we had a lot of good laughs” said Yigar Gunditjmara woman, Tarneen Onus-Williams. “We are looking forward to more deadly sexy health sessions around the State.”
Deadly and Sexy health workers after the Deadly Sexy Health Kit training at DWECH in Portland
The Deadly Sexy Health Kit contains DVDs, toys, activities, card games, discussions and a facilitators guide and will be available for all ACCHOs who complete the training.
For more information on upcoming Deadly Sexy Health Kit trainings contact Tarneen Onus-Williams on [email protected], Kat Byron on [email protected] or call 9411 9411.
BREASTFEEDING
B Breastfeeding is best
R Reduces health risks for boorai and mum
E Encouragement and support is essential for successful breastfeeding
A Ancestors practiced breastfeeding since creation
S Safest option for your boorai
T Time saving and no preparation needed
F Free and always available
E Exclusive feeding is recommended for the first 6 months of life
E Express – breast milk can be expressed and stored
D Digesting breast milk is easy for boorai
I Important – fights infections with antibodies and reduces risk of illness
N Natural – breastfeeding is the normal and a natural way to feed your boorai
G Gets mum back into shape
Victorian Aboriginal CommunityControlled Health Organisation Inc.17-23 Sackville St, Collingwood VIC 3066Phone: 03 9411 9411Fax: 03 9411 9599Email: [email protected]
Breast Milk is Normal & NaturAL
all images sourced from: ‘Tucker Talk Tips - Healthy Eating During Pregnancy’
Healthy Pregnancy, Healthy Boorai
EAT LESSGives you sugar, fat, energy
EAT MODERATELYGives you iron, calcium, protein, fat, energy
EAT MOREGives you carbohydrates, fibre, vitamins, minerals, energy
All images sourced from: Tucker Talk Tips - Healthy Eating During Pregnancy
Nutrition is about healthy eating and having a healthy lifestyle.
Eating healthy meals and snacks will keep you energised and lift your spirit.
Healthy food does not have to be expensive.
Eating healthy food during pregnancy is important to provide all the building blocks in your body to help your baby grow and develop.
Staying healthy and leading a healthy lifestyle is important for you, your boorai and your family.
Eating for two – a pregnant woman does not need to eat for two. It is the quality of food that she eats that is important, not the quantity.
Steady weight gain during pregnancy is important for the health of your baby. However it is also important not to gain too much weight. If you are a healthy weight it is recommended that you gain 11.5 – 16 Kilograms.
Vitamins – A vitamin called folate is very important to help prevent birth defects. It can be found in green leafy vegetables, most bread, baked beans, oranges and some breakfast cereals.
In addition Folic Acid tablets are recommended if you are thinking of getting pregnant and for the first three months of pregnancy.
Iron is needed to make extra blood for both mother and baby. You can get iron from lean meat, chicken and baked beans. Some women may need to take iron tablets too.
Avoid food that are more likely to carry bacteria. These include soft cheese, raw eggs, raw fish, cold smoked meat, cold chicken and soft serve ice cream.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT
Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation Inc.17-23 Sackville St, Collingwood VIC 3066 T 03 9411 9411F 03 9411 9599E [email protected]
NUTRITION FOR PREGNANCY
DEADLY WORDSVictorian Aboriginal CommunityControlled Health Organisation Inc.17-23 Sackville St, Collingwood VIC 3066Phone: 03 9411 9411Fax: 03 9411 9599Email: [email protected]
Language to say to your Boorai
OTHER WORDS FOR BABY Boorai, Child, Children
Chickadee, Chicks, PickanniniLittle one, Small one
Young one, Baby, Bubba, Son/Dort/My baby,
Bub
POSITIVE PHRASESChildren thrive with words of encouragement and praise.
You could say things like:Good job | You did that really well | That’s beautiful
I’m very proud of you | I like playing with youYou make me happy | That’s a beautiful painting
That was a great try | You’re so thoughtfulThanks for helping | You’ve got a great memory
That’s amazing | Great idea! | You did it! Well done | Have another go | Let’s play!
COMPLIMENTSGood on you, Too Deadly,
Great, Well done, Tops, You too deadly, Excellent, Deadly work,
Good effort, Nice work
ACTION WORDSPlay, Sing, Hug, Dance,
Jump, Listen, Cuddle, Hug, Eat, Laugh, Read, Sing, Run,
Here, Walk, Look, Crawl
GREETINGSHello, Hi, Good Morning,
G’day, Goodbye, See ya later, See ya, Welcome
DESCRIPTIVE WORDS Beautiful, Cute, Big, Nice, Lovely, Good, Gorgeous,
Soft, Strong, Smart, Cheeky, Deadly!
BOORAI DEVELOPMENT
A boorai begins to grow in the tummy of the mother
Newborn boorais are very visual and will follow moving objects
Newborn boorais are learning to control their limb movements: They will grow stronger from their upper arms to their finger tips
Newborn boorais are still trying to coordinate their eyes and hands to move together
Newborn boorais love soothing sounds and will watch their parents when they are talking
Boorais love to be comforted by their parents
Boorais rely on their parents to comfort, clean, feed and care for them
Boorais can sense their parents feelings and may respond with sounds and movements
Boorais can sense colours and different patterns of objects such as toys, materials from looking and touching
Boorais can respond with coos, grunts and cries
Boorais are beginning to gain better control over head and neck movements
Boorais are able to recognise their mothers breast for feeding
Victorian Aboriginal CommunityControlled Health Organisation Inc.17-23 Sackville St, Collingwood VIC 3066Phone: 03 9411 9411Fax: 03 9411 9599Email: [email protected]: Jaara Andy (Yorta Yorta | Wiradjuri)
NEWBORN-3 MONTHS OLD
MY FAMILY
Family gives me a sense of belongingFamily helps me understand my kinship connectionsFamily gives me a sense of identity and prideMy family are my first teachersFamily teach me culture and loreMy family shares Dreamtime stories with meI am my family’s cultural legacy
Victorian Aboriginal CommunityControlled Health Organisation Inc.17-23 Sackville St, Collingwood VIC 3066Phone: 03 9411 9411Fax: 03 9411 9599Email: [email protected]: Andrew Bamblett (Yorta Yorta | Gunai/Kurnai) and Jaara Andy (Yorta Yorta | Wiradjuri)
Importance of Family to Boorai
FAMILY IS IMPORTANT TO ALL BOORAIS!
Where is your mob from? What Country do you come from?
My family are…
ELDERS
NAN & POP
SISTER
BROTHER BRUZ
COUSIN CUZ
BRO JARMBI
SIS SISSY TIDDA
GRANDMA & GRANDPA NANNA & POPPY
CULTURE
Kinship- knowing who you areSharing and caring looking after each otherStory telling- sharing dreamtime storiesProtecting the land looking after what is oursDiversity- sharing our differencesRespect- showing some and earning someConnecting to land- going home to countryLinking with family- knowing who your mob is
Victorian Aboriginal CommunityControlled Health Organisation Inc.17-23 Sackville St, Collingwood VIC 3066Phone: 03 9411 9411Fax: 03 9411 9599Email: [email protected]: Andrew Bamblett (Yorta Yorta | Gunai/Kurnai) and Jaara Andy (Yorta Yorta | Wiradjuri)
Importance of Culture to Boorai
CULTURE IS IMPORTANT TO MY BOORAI!
Boorai growth chart
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
45cm
50cm
55cm
60cm
65cm
70cm
75cm
80cm85cm
90cm
95cm
100cm
105cm
110cm115cm
120cm
125cm
130cm
Now
that I am m
onths oldH
eight:
Learning is fun when:
I explore my w
orld by:
I can:
I AM G
ETTING
STRON
GER EVERY D
AY
Now
that I am m
onths oldLength:
I like listening to:
I like seeing:
My first w
ord:
My favourite food is:
I NEED
HELP TO
KEEP ME SAFE
Now
that I am m
onths oldH
eight:
I have great fun when:
My favourite story is:
My favourite song is:
I LIKE TO ASK Q
UESTIO
NS AN
D LEARN
Now
that I am years old
Height:
My friends are:
I like making:
At the playground I like to:
MY FAM
ILY TEACH
ME C
ULTU
RE
Now
that I am years old
Height:
My favourite activity is:
I like to eat:
I feel happy when:
My favourite book is:
I’M BEC
OM
ING
MO
RE IND
EPEND
ENT
Now
that I am years old
Height:
My favourite activities are:
I like to draw and paint:
I LIKE HELPIN
G O
THERS
I AM DU
E FOR M
Y 18 M
ON
TH M
CH
N
CH
ECK
UP
I AM DU
E FOR M
Y 2 YEAR M
CH
N
CH
ECK
UP
I AM DU
E FOR M
Y 3 YEAR M
CH
N
CH
ECK
UP
I CAN
ENRO
L FO
R 4 YEAR O
LD KIN
DER
CAN
ENRO
L FO
R SCH
OO
L
MY N
AME IS
MY BIRTH
DAY
IS ON
MY D
REAM
ING
ANIM
AL (TOTEM
) IS
MY C
LAN(M
OB) IS
AT BIRTHI W
EIGH
EDAT BIRTH
MY
HEIG
HT W
AS
Place bottom
of chart 40cm from
floor
best written on w
ith a waterproof perm
anent marker
TO R
EMEM
BER:
•R
egister your baby at Births, D
eaths and M
arriages•
Am I up to
date with m
y im
munisation?
REM
EMBER
MY
IMM
UN
ISATION
AT:
Birth
2 m
onths
4 m
onths
6 m
onths
12 m
onths
18 m
onths
Before I start school
4 years old
MATER
NAL C
HILD
H
EALTH N
UR
SE VISITS:
H
ome visit
2 w
eeks
4 w
eeks
8 w
eeks
4 m
onths
8 m
onths
12 m
onths
18 m
onths
2 years
3.5 years
Victorian Aboriginal Comm
unity Controlled Health O
rganisation is the peak body for Aboriginal health in Victoria. vaccho.org.au
Coolamon artwork: Shakara Montalto (Gunditjmara | Western District | Lake Condah Mission) Illustrations: Jaara Andy (Yorta Yorta | Wiradjuri).
All You Need to Know About A Healthy Pregnancy for a Healthy Boorai 1
All You Need to Know About A Healthy Pregnancy for a Healthy Boorai
BREASTFEEDINGBREASTFEEDING 1. Breastfeeding keeps mum and
boorai healthy2. Breastfeeding is the only food
your boorai will need until they are around six months old
3. Breastfeeding is free 4. Breastfeeding saves time – you
do not need to sterilise bottles or make up formula
5. Breastfeeding is always at the right temperature and always ready for boorai
6. Breastfeeding helps mum get back in shape
7. Breastfeeding helps your boorai prevent and fight infection
8. The more often you feed boorai the more breast milk you will make
9. The longer you breastfeed, the more it will benefit you and your boorai
10. Breastfeeding helps prevent boorai from being overweight, developing diabetes, asthma and other illnesses when boorai is older.
FIVE FACTS YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT BREAST MILK1. Breast milk has the right mix of
love and goodness to promote your boorai’s growth and development
2. Breast milk has antibodies and nutrients that build a strong immune system to protect your boorai from getting sick
3. Breast milk can be expressed (pumped) and stored at room temperature for 6-8 hours, in a fridge for 72 hours or in a freezer for up to two weeks before thawing in the fridge for use. Never refreeze breast milk
4. Breast milk does not cost any money
5. Breast milk is natural and breastfeeding has been practiced by our ancestors since creation.
While breast milk is the best option for feeding your boorai, breastfeeding is not always an option for some mothers and we also need to support mums who bottle feed their boorais.Infant formula also provides enough nutrition for feeding your boorai if it is properly prepared.
BOTTLE FEEDINGOnly use infant formula, cow’s milk is not suitable for a boorai under 12 months of age.All formulas sold in Australia provide the same nutrients so it does not matter which brand you choose.Read the instructions carefully and ensure that you do what is directed on the formula tin.Use the recommended amount for your boorai’s age.It is important to steralise all bottle feeding equipment.Remember, the only food your boorai will need in the first 6 months is breast milk or formula milk. Speak with your Aboriginal Health Worker, midwife or maternal child health nurse about introducing solid foods to your boorai at around six months of age.
Tucker Talk Tips - Healthy Eating During Pregnancy can be found at www.vaccho.org.au/nutrition
Boorai Bundle Breastfeeding Booklet
Boorai counting and colouring book
My Boorai’s Journey BoOK
Boorai bundle resources now available as a free downloadGo to www.vaccho.org.au/wd/kms/bb/ and download the Boorai Bundle, deadly resources to help you take care of your bub.
Sexy health got a whole lot deadlier
VACCHO NEWS Autumn 2015 5
Bullroarer Program is helping to change the lives of our young men
The Bullroarer Program was established two and a half years ago with over 80 participants walking through its doors. The Program was created as part of Njernda’s youth suicide prevention project.
It became obvious to Stuart Hearn, Community Support Worker and Gilbert Wanganeen, SEWB Worker that the more young fullas they spoke to, the more obvious it was that they were walking around with empty books, without the basic knowledge about themselves. This makes it difficult for these young fullas to treat themselves or others with love and respect or problem solve with dignity and integrity. The Program tries to resolve these problems by looking at them through the filter of their culture.
The Program is a two day (4 sessions per day) or 8 x1.5hrs per week format targeted at young men 14-25 exploring self-esteem. It attempts to empower these young men so they can recognise their own strengths and to perhaps build on their knowledge and understanding of their situation.
The Program incorporates sacred objects and cultural practices to deliver the message of hope and resilience, and to allow participants to share their stories in a safe and respectful environment.
It offers 10 self esteem tips that target, not only the person themselves, (1-5 inside), but to also bring an awareness of what can be achieved by doing things for others, (6-10 outside).
The Program emphasises that we are our habits and offers tools to allow the participant to explore where they have come from and to examine where they are now. This way they can realistically plan for where they want to be. This shows the individual that they possess more control over their circumstances than they give
themselves credit for and this in turn encourages them to start using these controls in a positive and mutually beneficial way.
Play with a purpose
Through group discussion, brainstorming and play with a purpose, our young men learn about their sacred objects, their flag and get to feel the weight of the issues that they carry every day.
We examine what a promise is and what it means to each individual. Each participant is shown respect for their points of view and encouraged to take on the views of others without judgments.
If you want more information on the Bullroarer Program contact Stuart or Gilbert on [email protected], [email protected] or 03 5482 6566.
On Thursday 19 March, Premier of Victoria, The Honourable Daniel Andrews MP hosted a Closing the Gap event at Queens Hall in Parliament House to celebrate Victoria’s on-going commitment to reducing health inequality for Victorian Aboriginal peoples.
In collaboration with VACCHO and Aboriginal Affairs Victoria (AAV), the Premier of Victoria opened the event with a speech that outlined some of the work that’s been done and what needs improving.
Mr Andrews continued to highlight the importance of Aboriginal people leading the charge through all stages of the process to create better health outcomes for Aboriginal peoples.
“All of us (Government) must help Aboriginal people live fulfilling lives in their own identity…Closing the Gap is more important now than ever…”VACCHO CEO Ms Jill Gallagher AO called on both sides of politics to prioritise Aboriginal health and keep it on the Council of Australian Governments (COAG) agenda.
“We cannot afford to let Victorian Aboriginal peoples be subject to inequality for another generation. Aboriginal health must be a COAG priority: making sure that Aboriginal health stays everybody’s responsibility.”
National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation CEO Lisa Briggs, spoke on VACCHO’s radio show Yarnin’ Health to express what NACCHO defined as a true, engaging partnership at a National and State level.
“…For us, it means that you will work with us, we will be involved in the architectural decision making, you will not make decisions for us, making it much more robust, longer lasting and then we’ll be walking alongside each other for change…”
Closing the Gap
To hear these speeches in full go to https://soundcloud.com/vaccho/sets/closethegap15. To get all the news on Victorian Aboriginal health, stream Yarnin’ Health at www.vaccho.org.au/nm/yhr/ or tune into Melbourne’s only First Nations’ radio station – 3KND Kool N Deadly 1503AM Digital. WEDNESDAy 4–6PM
Iris Bysouth
Out of Home Care, Bringing Them Home Worker - Bendigo Aboriginal Co-op
Mob Barkandji
How long have you been in your role? Two years
What made you want to apply for this role? Because I worked for Centrelink for 30 years and when they offered me a payout I took this and then all I wanted to do was help my mob.
What is most satisfying about your role? Working with the community and seeing the faces of our people.
What is the most challenging thing about your role? Lack of funds and not knowing where the next lot is coming from, lack of research and training dead end.
What has inspired you? Working with Stolen Generation, the Royal Commission and the wider community. I want to do it for my mob.
What are you most passionate about? I am passionate about my family and my people also very passionate about passing on knowledge to future generation and speaking out.
If I won the lottery I would….. Make sure my people will benefit.
If you were stranded on a deserted island with one person, who would you take with you? My grandfather.
VACCHO NEWS Autumn 2015 7
Member worker profiles
Greg Pepper
Bringing Them Home Worker - Mallee District Aboriginal Service
Mob Watja Bulik, Gunnai/Kurnai
How long have you been in your role? Four years
What do you do? Bringing Them Home, Stolen Generation, Proof of Aboriginality and Elders Program.
What made you want to apply for this role? As part of the stolen generation, and wanting to work for and with my people.
What is most satisfying about your role? Connecting people back to family and Country.
What is the most challenging thing about your role? Tracing family history and information for proof of Aboriginality.
What has inspired you? Seeing other BTH and Aboriginal Health Workers and the work they do.
What are you most passionate about? Helping Aboriginal people.
What is your motto in life? Be respectful to your Elders and make sure your family comes first.
If I won the lottery I would….. Set the family up with housing and education.
If you were stranded on a deserted island with one person, who would you take with you? It has to be my two daughters and my son.
MetroDandenong & District Aboriginies Co-operative Ltd3 Carroll Avenue, Dandenong 3175Tel: 03 9794 5933
Ngwala Willumbong Co-operative Ltd – Head Office93 Wellington Street, St Kilda 3182Tel: 03 9510 3233
Victorian Aboriginal Health Service – Family Counselling Unit238-250 Plenty Road, Preston 3072Tel: 03 9403 3300
Hume RegionAlbury Wodonga Aboriginal Health Service644 Daniel Street, Glenroy 2640Tel: 02 6040 1200Freecall: 1800 421 640
Mungabareena Aboriginal Corporation21 Hovell Street, Wodonga 3690Tel: 02 6024 7599
Rumbalara Aboriginal Co-operative Ltd – Guawa Place69-71 Numurkah Rd, Shepparton 3630Tel: 03 5820 0092
Gippsland RegionGippsland & East Gippsland Aboriginal Co-operative37-53 Dalmahoy Street, Bairnsdale 3875Tel: 03 5150 0761
Lake Tyers Health & Children’s ServiceRules Road, Lake Tyers 3887Tel: 03 5155 8500
Lakes Entrance Aboriginal Health Association18-26 Jemmeson Street, Lakes Entrance 3909Tel: 03 5155 8300
Moogji Aboriginal Council East Gippsland Inc.52 Stanley Street, Orbost 3888Tel: 03 5154 2133
Ramahyuck District Aboriginal Corporation117 Foster Street, Sale 3850Tel: 03 5143 1644
Central Gippsland Aboriginal Health Services7-9 Buckley Street, Morwell 3840Tel: 03 5136 5100
DirectLineTel: 1800 888 23624 hours, 7 days a weekConfidential AOD counselling and referral line
Family Drug HelpTel: 1300 660 068Monday to Friday 9am-9pm
youth Support & Advocacy ServiceTel: 1800 014 44624 hour toll free serviceService for people aged 12 – 21 years
Victorian Aboriginal alcohol and other drugs service providers
Helplines Helplines Helplines Helplines
Loddon Mallee RegionMallee District Aboriginal Services - Mildura120-122 Madden Avenue, Mildura 3502Tel: 03 5022 1852
Mallee District Aboriginal Services - Kerang 9 Nolan Street, Kerang 3579Tel: 03 5450 3019
Murray Valley Aboriginal Co-operative87 Latje Road, Robinvale 3549Tel: 03 5026 3353
Mallee District Aboriginal Services - Swan Hill70 Nyah Road, Swan Hill 3585Tel: 03 5032 8600
Njernda Aboriginal Corporation84 Hare Street, Echuca 3564Tel: 03 5480 6252
Bendigo & District Aboriginal Co-operative13-15 Forrest Street, Bendigo 3550Tel: 03 5442 4947
Grampians/Barwon South West RegionBallarat & District Aboriginal Co-operative5 Market Street, Ballarat 3353Tel: 03 5331 5344
Budja Budja Aboriginal Co-operative20-22 Grampians Road, Halls Gap 3381Tel: 03 5356 4751
Dhauwurd Wurrung Elderly and Community Health Service18 Wellington Road, Portland 3305Tel: 03 5521 7535
Goolum Goolum Aboriginal Co-operative43 Hamilton Street, Horsham 3402Tel: 03 5381 6333
Gunditjmara Aboriginal Co-operative Ltd3 Banyan Street, Warrnambool 3280Tel: 03 5564 3344
Kirrae Health Services IncKirrae Avenue, Purnim 3278Tel: 03 55 671 270
Wathaurong Aboriginal Co-operative62 Morgan Street, North Geelong 3215Tel: 03 5277 2038
Winda Mara Aboriginal Corporation21 Scott Street, Heywood 3304Tel: 03 5527 2051
Turning Point Alcohol and Drug Centre Tel: 03 8413 8413
Victorian Aboriginal Legal ServiceFreecall: 1800 064 865
Harm Reduction VictoriaTel: 03 9329 1500
Australian Drug FoundationTel: 1300 85 85 84 www.druginfo.adf.org.auAlcohol and drug information service
VACCHO NEWS Autumn 2015 9
Erin MandersonHealth Information Analyst - Health Evidence Team
I am very pleased to be making my return to VACCHO after working here a few years ago as the Medicare Enhancement Officer.
Since that time, I have been finishing off my Master of Public Health and have worked across a number of health/Aboriginal/data sectors and more recently as the Prevention and Better Health Coordinator at the Frankston-Mornington Peninsula Medicare Local.
VACCHO staff profile
On the 26 March 2015 I was privileged to be selected as one of 16 national applicants to participate in GenerationOnes CEO for a Day program. This program gives Aboriginal people from across the country the opportunity to spend a day or two with one of Australia’s leading CEOs.
I was fortunate on two levels, one I was selected and secondly to be spending my time with Tracy Adams the CEO of BoysTown in Brisbane. BoysTown is a NGO that is dedicated to enabling young people, especially those who are marginalised and without voice, to improve their quality of life.
I was quite nervous on my arrival, but this eased as soon as I met Tracy and her staff. The day began by being Tracy’s ‘shadow’ for the day. I had some reservations that there were going to be some aspects and business that I
wouldn’t be included in, but to my surprise there wasn’t. I was so honoured that I was involved in all meetings and activities that Tracy had planned. This I believe gave me a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see and learn from BoysTown.
One of the main highlights was being part of a budget meeting with Tracy. It was so informative and gave me an understanding on projected budgeting of a large organisation with such a large staff bank.
It was one of the best personal and professional activities
that I have involved myself in throughout 17 years working within the Aboriginal health sector. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Jill, VACCHO CEO and Belinda, Workforce and Wellbeing Unit Director, for allowing me to participate in this experience, Tracy Adams for taking me under her wing for the day and GenerationOne for supplying Aboriginal people the chance to take part in such a brilliant and rewarding Program.
Craig HollowayActing Manager, VACCHO Workforce and Wellbeing Unit.
CEO For a Day program 2015
The Hon. Daniel Andrews MP with Dylan Clarke,VACCHO Radio Programme Project Officer
Around the trapsFollow us on
Jason B. King, VACCHO Chairperson and Victorian Aboriginal Health Service CEO
Jill Gallagher AO, VACCHO CEOAunty Mavis Egan, Aunty Doseena Fergie and Aunty Hilary Saunders keeping an eye on proceedings
Deadly mob ready to talk
Closing the Gap in Victoria event at Parliament House
17-23 Sackville Street Collingwood VIC 3066
P 03 9411 9411 F 03 9411 9599
www.vaccho.org.au
• Aboriginal Community Elders Services• Albury Wodonga Aboriginal Health Service• Ballarat & District Aboriginal Co-operative • Bendigo & District Aboriginal Co-operative• Budja Budja Aboriginal Co-operative• Cummeragunja Housing & Development
Aboriginal Corporation • Dandenong & District Aborigines Co-operative• Dhauwurd Wurrung Elderly and Community
Health Service• Gippsland & East Gippsland
Aboriginal Co-operative• Goolum Goolum Aboriginal Co-operative• Gunditjmara Aboriginal Co-operative• Healesville Indigenous Community
Services Association• Kirrae Health Services Inc.• Lake Tyers Health & Children’s Service• Lakes Entrance Aboriginal Health Association
• Melbourne Aboriginal Youth Sport & Recreation Co-operative
• Mallee District Aboriginal Services• Kerang Aboriginal Community Centre• Swan Hill & District
Aboriginal Co-operative• Moogji Aboriginal Council East Gippsland Inc.• Mungabareena Aboriginal Corporation• Murray Valley Aboriginal Co-operative• Ngwala Willumbong Cooperative• Njernda Aboriginal Corporation• Ramahyuck District Aboriginal Corporation
• Central Gippsland Aboriginal Health Services
• Rumbalara Aboriginal Co-operative Ltd• Victorian Aboriginal Health Service• Wathaurong Aboriginal Co-operative• Winda-Mara Aboriginal Corporation
VACCHOBoard MembersJason B. King: ChairpersonMarcus Clarke: Vice ChairpersonAndrew Gardiner: Board MemberHilary Saunders: Board MemberSuzie Squires: Board MemberKevin Williams: Board MemberDaphne yarram: Board MemberKelli Bartlett: Board Member
STORIES | IDEAS | FEEDBACK Don’t forget this is your newsletter and we need your stories and ideas.
VACCHO Members
Follow us on
If you would like to give us story ideas or comment on our newsletter please contact our Communications Officer Taloi Havini on 03 9411 9411 or on [email protected].
VACCHO News Autumn 2015This newsletter is printed on Impact recycled uncoated paper.
