Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women are joining staff from the District, Aboriginal Medial Services and community groups to share stories and have meaningful conversations about health.
Four ‘Yarn Up’ gatherings have already been held this year from Grafton to Murwillumbah, with at least three more scheduled for the coming months.
The District’s Aboriginal Immunisation Support Officer Virginia Paden said the Yarn Ups were helping Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women spread word among families in their communities about the importance of timely immunisations and women’s cancer health screenings.
“At each Yarn Up, women gain the knowledge to feel empowered to make informed health choices for themselves and their families,” Virginia said.
“By sharing stories and cultural knowledge in safe and welcoming spaces, we hope to share key health messages.
“The response to the Yarn Ups has been overwhelmingly positive.
“We’re now backing the Healthcare Champions identified through these sessions, providing them with the support they need to share health information throughout their communities.”
To date, 123 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women have attended a Yarn Up, with many raising their hands to become health champions.
Eileen Bolt joined the Lismore Yarn Up and was only too happy to become a health champion.
She’s now checking in with more local families about their health needs while keeping informed about women and children’s health and wellbeing.
“When the community recognises a face in and around events such as this one, they feel more confident and are open to talking about making changes for themselves and their families,” Eileen said.
“It gives them the motivation to want to make healthy lifestyle changes.”
One of the health champions identified at the Murwillumbah Yarn Up is Lara Lei. Lara was truly grateful to take on the role.
“It was such a positive enriching day,” Lara said.
“So much valuable information was shared and I learned about programs and services I hadn’t been aware of before.”
To arrange a Yarn Up for your community or help plan one, please contact Virginia on 0477 383 674 or email Virginia.
Head to Aboriginal Women’s and Children’s Health Champions Yarn Up to find out more.
In the spirit of National Reconciliation Week (27 May to 3 June), the Yarn Ups are a powerful example of what reconciliation looks like in action: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women leading the way in shaping healthier futures for their families and communities.
Ballina Yarn Up
Grafton Yarn Up
Lismore Yarn Up
Pictured top:
Murwillumbah’s health champions.