Close the Gap – Our Health; Our Voice; Our Choice

In conjunction with a nationwide campaign, Surat Aboriginal Corporation once again hosted an annual "Close the Gap" event in Surat along the River Walk on March 20 2019, as part of our commitment to closing the health equality gap in Australia.

Bigger and better than ever, the event was well supported by many community organisations including Goolburri, Nukal Murra, Queeensland Health Service, Healthy Communities (Qld Health), Lifeline, Catholic Care, Carers Qld, Drug Arm, Maranoa Regional Council and Horizon Housing, whom held individual stalls to promote different services offered to the Indigenous Community within the Maranoa region. The ‘Blender Bike’ (Qld Health) was a hit and music from Lloyd Saunders a great addition to the day.

Lloyd Saunders. Photo credit: The Western Star

In encouraging community led solutions to improve health equality and the life expectancy gap between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and other Australians, overall, the event provided great opportunity for both Indigenous and non-Indigenous persons alike to connect and collaborate.

Rodney Landers (Mandandanji spokesperson for Traditional Owners) opened the occasion with Welcome to Country before outlining the current status of the "Close the Gap" initiative and the staggering statistics in Australia. In highlighting the persistent shortfall in the life expectancy and health status of First Australians, it was emphasised that the Close the Gap movement, must be maintained and progressed to ensure sustained and meaningful long-term change; and most importantly, an end to the Indigenous health deficit.

Beautiful weather, a picturesque location, awesome music from Lloyd Saunders, yummy food and a wonderful turnout of over 160 people meant the event was a great success. It was wonderful to see The Western Star recognise the event also (story here).

Comments from community members included,

“a great day, very informative”;

“well organised and a wonderful event to attend”;

“great music, wonderful interactive stalls for everyone”; and

“Excellent! The children loved it!”.

SAC would like to thank our wonderful staff, all the community service providers and everyone involved, for their contribution and efforts in making the day a great success.

We’re already looking forward to next year’s event!

To view more photo's, click here to see the gallery album.