More than 70 Indigenous men from across the North West gathered for discussions on men’s health in Mount Isa last week.
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Mount Isa Golf Club provided the perfect setting for Gidgee Healing’s inaugural men’s health forum and golf day on Monday June 26 and Tuesday June 27.
Gidgee Healing CEO Dallas Leon said it was part of the Momentim program, which attempts to engage men actively in their healthcare.
“We’re really excited to have more than 50 guys here to talk about health and well-being.”
“Some are patients, some are community members, some have come down from Normanton, as well. Hopefully we can continue to do this as the years go on,” Dallas said.
William Blackley performed Welcome to Country before a dance by our local Sundowners Kalkutungu Dancers.
On Monday Charlie Jai presented on prostate cancer before former rugby league player and Deadly Choices ambassador Steve Renouf talked about managing diabetes, a big issue for both sexes in the North West.
After lunch men heard about mental health from Dr Derek Chong, before a presentation called ‘Dreamtime Syphilis’ by Dr Marjad Page.
Tuesday's nine hole golf day was well attended and thoroughly enjoyed by all.
Though the forum targeted men, Mr Leon wanted the take-home message to be one of family.
“We’re trying to plant that seed that as men, we need to look after ourselves in order to be part of a family unit.
“To not ignore health, which a lot of men can do. It’s really important that we as individuals look after ourselves, even if it’s not for ourselves,” Mr Leon said.
"This event was to bring Murri men together to yarn about their health and to increase their social and emotional well-being.”