By KATHRYN BERMINGHAM
THEY’RE allies in improving Aboriginal health, but Eastern Health staff and some of the best Aboriginal sporting talent will become fierce opponents next month.
Residents in Melbourne’s East are being invited to attend a football match and netball tournament to be held between the two groups on Eastern Health’s annual ‘Closing the Gap’ sports day.
Now in its third year, the annual sports day celebrates Aboriginal culture while promoting Aboriginal health within the community.
Eastern Health’s Senior Aboriginal Service Development officer, Vera Webber, said the event was an opportunity for the community as a whole to “connect with respect” with the Aboriginal community.
“The aim of the day is to celebrate the spirit of reconciliation, and also better inform the community about the dedicated Aboriginal health services we have,” Ms Webber said.
“Aboriginal health continues to be one of Eastern Health’s major priorities.”
In previous years, Ms Webber said, the sports day had achieved its goal of uniting the community while showcasing some of the best Aboriginal sporting talent in the region.
“It’s been a terrific way of breaking down cultural barriers and encouraging collaboration between Eastern Health and local Aboriginal communities.”
As well as a netball tournament, the day will feature children’s activities, post-match entertainment from Philly and Scott Darlow as well as a traditional ’Welcome to Country’.
The Eastern Health Closing the Gap Sports Day will be held on Sunday 1 March at the Don Road Sporting Complex in Healesville from noon.
