The 2015 Close the Gap Event was held on the 17th March at the Oorala Aboriginal Centre, UNE. This was a joint event hosted by The Oorala Aboriginal Centre and New England Medicare Local.
After a welcome to country by Mr. Colin Ahoy, a variety of speakers addressed this year’s theme: Our Culture, Our Health.
Mr. Greg Strong, Aboriginal Health Worker at New England Medicare Local, spoke about Closing the Gap at a community level from a community member and father perspective. Mr. Strong focused on the Aboriginal community’s responsibility and commitment to “Close the Gap.” “Say no to cigarettes, drugs and alcohol” was a simple but profound message.
UNE Bachelor of Nursing Graduate and Vice-Chancellor’s Scholar, Samantha Snow, reminded us that it was important to empower people to make their own decisions about their health and to be respectful of others that have not had the same opportunities.
Larrisa Ahoy (Bachelor of Arts) spoke powerfully about “it’s time to step up”. She reminded us that the only way we can improve Closing the Gap is to step up and do it ourselves, not rely on others to tell us what to do. We are role models for our children and community.
Jessica Duncan (Bachelor of Medicine) spoke about bringing it down to a community level and not letting national statistics get in the way of improving our local outcomes.
Michael Kirk (Bachelor of Education K-12) spoke about institutional racism and breaking down barriers with education and empowerment to overcome obstacles in the future.
Tanya Scales, Closing the gap liaison at New England Medicare Local, spoke briefly about her role and gave opportunity to attendees to speak after the event if they had any questions regarding registering for “Close the Gap”.
The event was attended by around 100 people including UNE staff, students, school students, community and our local Elders. The speeches were followed by a light lunch providing participants with an opportunity to interact and discuss the challenges and solutions to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health. A link to an audio recording of the speeches will be available through Oorala’s webpage. (www.une.edu.au/oorala).