Second annual Aboriginal Youth Gala Day held at Camperdown Park.

Local youth and community members gathered for Sydney Local Health District’s second annual Aboriginal Youth Gala Day at Camperdown Park.

Kids of all ages enjoyed activities on the field, including touch footy games, running races, and ball kicking drills. 

Noah Connick, Sydney Swans development officer, knows how big a role sport plays in helping youth grow.

“Physical activity is important, and AFL is trying to get kids out and about and running around. The sport of AFL is a lot of kicking and lot of movement, and it is the best thing for the body and for the brain,” he said.

“Superstars like Buddy Franklin are great role models in the sport and getting young people involved can be the best thing for the community.” 

The Sydney Swans was a new supporter for the event, alongside several local, longstanding partner organisations, including Souths Cares, the Aboriginal Medical Service Redfern, and the Metropolitan Aboriginal Lands Council.

The event was not only an opportunity for the community to enjoy a day of physical activity, but also a chance to access District health services and engage with local Elders.

“Handing the knowledge down is really important,” said Uncle Allen Murray, Local Elder and Lands Council representative.

“I ask grandparents parents, carers, when you talk about culture, talk about the reflection about today and why it’s important to have a gathering like this. It’s about respecting bloodlines, connection to country, connection to animals and totems.”

Aboriginal health and wellbeing is a priority area for the District, and localised events that engage people with services help to improve health outcomes and the overall wellbeing of First Nations people. 

“In Sydney Local Health District, we do value our diverse communities, and respect cultural differences. We’ve made a commitment, with the board, to have the healthiest Aboriginal community in Australia,” said Lou-Anne Blunden, District Executive Director Clinical Services and Integration and Population Health.

Run by the District’s Aboriginal Cultural Support Team, the Gala Day was an outcome from previous community consultations and discussion with the Aboriginal Edlers Advisory Group. 

District Board member Richard Acheson was among the local community present to engage with youth and have a chat with staff and supporters. 

A barbecue breakfast and lunch were provided by District staff, there were drinks from Walk About Coffee, and kids were invited to engage and learn more about local wildlife with Feature Creatures.

The District’s Mobile Health Clinic was also available to offer free flu vaccinations. The custom-designed truck is a feature of population outreach services and boosts access to primary health care for people who face an increased risk of developing preventable diseases or conditions.