Community and Oral Health staff stepped out of their usual workplaces and into the heart of the community during this year’s NAIDOC Week celebrations at Musgrave Park.

The team connected hundreds of people with health information, support and services in a welcoming and culturally safe environment.

For Community and Oral Health staff, it was an opportunity to have meaningful conversations, answer questions and help people better understand the range of supports available across Metro South Health.

Representatives from Oral Health, the Medical Aids Subsidy Scheme, palliative care, chronic disease, Public Health Unit and consumer liaison services were on hand throughout the event, sharing information and helping community members navigate available healthcare services.

Executive Director of Community and Oral Health Lesley English said engaging with community at events is an essential part of healthcare.

“NAIDOC Week is a wonderful opportunity to meet people where they are, have meaningful conversations and connect community members with services that can support their health and wellbeing,” Lesley said.

“Some people may not know about the support available to them, so having the opportunity to yarn, answer questions and share information in a relaxed environment can make a real difference.”

The Community and Oral Health stall attracted strong interest throughout the day, with attendees stopping to learn more about available services, pick up resources and speak directly with staff about their health needs and concerns.

Lesley said events such as Musgrave Park NAIDOC Week were also an important opportunity for health services to listen and learn from community.

“Building strong relationships starts with being present, listening and understanding what matters most to the people we serve,” she said.

“By engaging with community outside of traditional healthcare settings, we can strengthen trust, improve awareness of services and continue working together to deliver care that meets the needs of our communities.”

The event highlighted Metro South Health’s ongoing commitment to community-led engagement and improving access to healthcare, while celebrating the rich cultures, knowledge and contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.