Image: Queensland Health photographer Mary-Ann Shapcott
The team at Bidgerdii Community Health Service dedicated the final months of 2024 to raising awareness and action around preventing, detecting, and managing rheumatic heart disease (RHD).
In collaboration with Queensland Health’s First Nations Team, community events were held across Central Queensland including Woorabinda, Biloela, and Bidgerdii’s new centre in Blackwater, to educate and engage the local community about RHD and Acute Rheumatic Fever (ARF).
CEO Marissa Smith said Bidgerdii was committed to reducing the impact of RHD and ensuring communities had the knowledge and resources to stay strong and healthy.
“Rheumatic heart disease is preventable, yet it continues to have a devastating impact on our communities. By strengthening awareness and improving access to early detection and care, we are empowering our people with the tools they need to protect their health and break the cycle of RHD for future generations,” she said.
Bidgerdii’s new Blackwater clinic partnered with Queensland Health, the CQHHS Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health and Wellbeing team, and Smoke Creative to host an RHD Community Art Day, where community members came together to create a mural for the new clinic.
The event began with a Welcome to Ghungalu Country by Aunty Pat Leisha, followed by a smoking ceremony and traditional dancing. Throughout the day, attendees participated in Healthy Skin, Strong Heart activities, face painting, and demonstrations on handwashing, along with skin checks. Information was also provided on strep A and ARF, key contributors to RHD. A BBQ lunch was enjoyed by all, along with fresh fruit and vegetables available for the community to take home.
RHD education, screening, and treatment remained a top priority for Bidgerdii’s team, with ongoing weekly activities in Blackwater to keep the community engaged.
Meanwhile, the Rockhampton team continued the Healthy Skin, Strong Heart campaign through December and January, screening clients, providing education, and distributing support packs to assist in management.
