Meet Jeff Locke – the newest member of Metro South Health’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Directorate, and QEII’s newest Health Liaison Officer (HLO).
Jeff joins QEII all the way from West Moreton Health, where he spent the last 12 months supporting First Nations patients at the Ripley Satellite Health Centre (Moodoombar Dabbil).
A proud Western Kuku Yalanji, Yidinji and Githabul man, Jeff brings his wealth over 20 years of in-community experience to Metro South, where his connection to country comes full circle.
“I grew up in this area and worked at the Murri School in Acacia Ridge for 20 years, so even in my short time so far, I know a lot of families connected to the school who have come through QEII,” he explained.
“I really enjoy working for our Mob. Supporting them feels like a full circle moment.”
Providing advice, support, and community referrals to Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander patients across QEII’s wards, Jeff’s role brings a unique cultural understanding to the bedside, while bridging a vital link to deliver culturally safe healthcare.
“It's important that we have someone who can go out and have a chat with our people and let them know we are on their side through their health journey.”
“Understanding the barriers that First Nations patients face when coming to government organisations like a hospital makes me feel like I can do a good job at helping them have a good experience, continue their health journey, and feel culturally supported,” he said.
While he works towards completing his Social Work degree this year, Jeff is on hand at QEII five days a week providing vital support to QEII’s First Nations patients, their families and their carers.
Read more about the Metro South Health HLO program here.