NAIDOC Week
Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Services,
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Following the smoking ceremony, Andrea Taylor delivered an acknowledgement of country. Michelle Meadham presented the award for the MHDA Cultural Champion. The MHDA Cultural Champion award is an annual award given to an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Island staff member or ally staff member who champions cultural inclusion, awareness and safety This year it was awarded to Kas Mattes for his contributions to the MHDA Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander service and community. Guests delighted by lucky door prizes, which were made by the MHDA Aboriginal Team. Michelle introduced the Aboriginal MHDA trainees and program. Walter and Angel were introduced as the next generation of the program and the first ever Drug and Alcohol trainees in NSLHD. During a brief interlude, the First Nations Education duo kindly presented Aboriginal artifacts and weapons to the group, informing us on woomeras and spears, and traditional hunting techniques. The event was finished off with an inspiring and captivating performance by the Kiris An Tharan dance troupe, who delighted us with dances about the history of the Torres Strait Islands. Following the dance, guests gathered for light refreshments and celebrations. The Aboriginal MHDA team shared handmade beaded keyrings and lemon myrtle balm, which was made from the lemon myrtle tree in Macquarie Hospital ’ s healing garden.
Page 7| NSLHD Mental Health Drug and Alcohol News | August 2025
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