Last Thursday Soldiers’ Park hosted a Closing the Gap event in recognition of closing the Gap day.
Closing the Gap is a state government initiative that focuses on shortening the gap on between indigenous and non-indigenous Australians
The event provided health checks for the local community, and promoted a healthy lifestyle for all.
Local health representatives from Collie Adult day care centre, Chemmart, and Collie River Valley Medical Centre joined health representatives from Perth and Bunbury.
GP down south Aboriginal health program manager Anne Walsh said there are many barriers that prevent indigenous people accessing health care.
“There are many barriers to closing the gap on indigenous health, one of these is transport and the access to transport.”
“We provide our patients with transport options that will allow them to be able to attend doctors and specialist appointments,” she said.
The main aim of closing the gap day is to recognising the need for access to quality health care for all cultures.
“It’s all about removing the barriers to accessing health care,” Ms Walsh said.
Ms Walsh said events like this help to educate the community about health care options.
“There is great importance in holding events like these, to be able to bring the community together regardless of race.”
