Mercy Health will be celebrating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history, culture and achievements as part of NAIDOC Week from 3 to 10 July 2016.
Ceremonial events, speeches and activities will be held at Mercy Hospital for Women in Heidelberg and Werribee Mercy Hospital, reflecting the focus for this year’s NAIDOC Week theme, “Songlines –The living narrative of our nation.”
Celebrated nationally, NAIDOC Week encourages Australians to acknowledge Indigenous history and recognise the contributions Indigenous Australians make to the country and its society.
Mercy Health Group Executive Officer Adjunct Professor Stephen Cornelissen said the organisation will host a series of accessible events and activities so patients and residents can participate in the celebration.
“Alongside our annual participation in NAIDOC Week, Mercy Health also provides culturally-specific services that are culturally safe, and welcoming for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients, families and visitors,” Adj Prof Cornelissen said.
“Mercy Health is committed to supporting Indigenous communities year-round with initiatives and programs including the Nangnak Baban Murrup clinic which provides support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families throughout pregnancy and following the baby’s birth.”
NAIDOC Week celebrations for 2016 include:
Mercy Hospital for Women
Tuesday 5 July
– Bracelet making activity, Parent Education Room, Level
Wednesday 6 July, 12.30pm – 3pm
– Grand Round presentation and lunch in conjunction with Austin Health (12.30pm-1.45pm)
– Welcome to Country from Aunty Di Kerr and smoking ceremony (2pm)
– Performance and community guest speaker (2.30pm)
– Afternoon tea (3pm)
Thursday 7 July, 12.45pm- 1.30pm
– Grand Round Presentation, Aboriginal Programs Unit Mercy Hospital for Women, Jo Pappas, Senior Aboriginal Hospital Liaison Officers
Werribee Mercy Hospital
Thursday 7 July, 2pm – 3pm
– Welcome to Country from Aunty Di Kerr and smoking ceremony (2pm)
– Afternoon tea (2.30pm)
Last reviewed December 27, 2017.
