Family and friends gathered outside the Aboriginal Health Bugalwena building at Tweed Valley Hospital recently to unveil a memorial plaque in honour of Aunty Virginia Apanui. The plaque was previously located at The Tweed Hospital.

Well known in the Tweed Aboriginal community, Aunty Virginia was remembered for her commitment and dedication to Aboriginal Health.

Her plaque was unveiled by sons Selwyn, Josh and Russell Apanui, who playfully snuck a Queensland Maroons NRL flag beneath the black cloth, much to the delight of everyone gathered at the event.

The ceremony took place on Wednesday 14 May as part of celebrations to mark the first anniversary of the opening of the Tweed Valley Hospital.

Community rooms inside the centre were also named in honour of Aunty Sue Follent – the sister of Aunty Virginia – who was on hand to unveil the plaque in her honour, much to her surprise. 

At the gathering, Aunty Sue was recognised for her long-standing commitment and advocacy for Aboriginal Health.

The event was planned to coincide with the District’s Ngayundi (def: "this is ours”) Aboriginal Executive Health Council meeting, which Aunty Sue is a long-standing member of.

Acting Director Aboriginal Health, Oral Health and Health Promotion Cameron Johnson was pleased to be part of the event.

“It was a real honour and privilege to be able to celebrate our local rich history and these amazing Aunties, who have contributed so much for the health and wellness of others,” he said.