Festival honours Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture.
 

Sydney Local Health District’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff were among those at this year’s Yabun Festival at Victoria Park, Broadway, on Gadigal Land.

Held each year, Yabun is a powerful celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture, strength and survival. Meaning ‘music to a beat’ in the Gadigal language, the festival has brought communities together since 2001 through music, storytelling, art and cultural connection. This year there was a range of cultural activities and performances, and a march to remind everyone of the work still to be done together.

Representatives from the District’s Aboriginal Health Unit and Cultural Support Team hosted a stall, sharing health information from five services and promoting pathways into health care, training and support.

Our District also sponsored the Elders tent, providing a space for rest, refreshments, tea and connection among the 10,000 people who attended. Staff handed out merchandise, including bucket hats, water bottles and sunscreen, to help attendees stay cool and safe in the summer heat.

"Working in partnership with our local Aboriginal communities is key to improving health and wellbeing,” said George Long, Executive Director of the Aboriginal Health Unit. “Yabun brings together culture, connection and care – all essential to strong, healthy communities.”