Image: Bidgerdii
Bidgerdii Community Health Service has marked 30 years of service to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities across its Central Queensland footprint by hosting a gala dinner at the Rockhampton Leagues Club.
The 3 May celebration brought together over 200 Elders, founding members, community leaders, stakeholders, local government, national representatives, and sister Aboriginal medical services for an evening of reflection, celebration, and connection.
The evening opened with a Welcome to Country by Uncle Wade Mann and young Darumbal dancers.
Highlights from the evening included recognition of both Team Indigenous Corporation and Wakai Waian, Bidgerdii’s partner organisations (both celebrating their 10-year anniversaries) and the unveiling of Bidgerdii’s new branding by Brandon Butler from Gaba Art.
Guests were entertained by music from The Fringe Dwellers.
Bidgerdii CEO Marissa Smith said the evening was a beautiful reminder of the strength, spirit, and unity that has guided Bidgerdii since its inception.
“What began as a small community health initiative is now a symbol of what we, as Aboriginal people, can achieve when we lead ourselves, by ourselves, for ourselves,” Ms Smith said on the night.
“Today we gather to celebrate 30 years of community control, 30 years of self-determination, and 30 years of walking together to look after our own.”
The night provided an opportunity to honour the visionaries and early supporters whose wisdom, leadership and commitment brought the Bidgerdii vision to life.
For more than three decades, Bidgerdii has walked alongside Community by supporting, healing, and advocating for better health outcomes. The evening was not only a celebration of past achievements, but also a reaffirmation of Bidgerdii’s enduring commitment to community wellbeing, cultural strength, and self-determination.
National Aboriginal Community-Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO) Chair Donnella Mills thanked Bidgerdii for being invited to attend such an important milestone celebration.
“It was a truly inspiring evening and a powerful reminder of the strength, resilience and leadership of the Rockhampton community,” Ms Mills said.
“Please pass on my congratulations to your entire team for delivering such a meaningful and well-organised event. “It was a fitting tribute to the legacy and ongoing impact of the organisation.”
Bidgerdii provides culturally safe comprehensive primary healthcare and wellbeing services to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, families and communities across Rockhampton, Mount Morgan and the Central Highlands.
A selection of images from Bidgerdii’s 30th anniversary celebrations. Images: Bidgerdii
