Community wellbeing now front and centre in Murray Bridge
Moorundi Health Centre, located in Murray Bridge on Ngarrindjeri Country, has opened its doors to the public, bringing with it a new sense of prosperity for the local community.
Recently a long-awaited, community breakthrough was realised for the Ngarrindjeri people, with the unveiling of a new fit-for-purpose health centre.
Moorundi Health Centre, located in Murray Bridge on Ngarrindjeri Country, opened its doors to the public, bringing with it a new sense of prosperity for the local community.
Situated in a prime position, on the main road leading into Murray Bridge from Adelaide, the centre is on track to deliver culturally appropriate health, social and wellbeing services to Australia’s first peoples.
Tahlia Lloyd, Chair, Moorundi Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Service Ltd, acknowledges the significant milestone of the health service’s establishment.
“(The centre) is more than just a building, it symbolises self-determination, cultural strength and our community’s right to accessible, holistic, and culturally safe healthcare,” said Ms Lloyd.
“It is a space designed by and for Aboriginal people, guided by the voices of our Elders and the wisdom of generations who have long called this Country home."
"The new health centre will not only deliver vital health services, but will serve as a place of healing, belonging, and cultural connection. It reflects our commitment to addressing health inequities and ensuring our children and future generations grow strong in culture and wellbeing.”
Steven Sumner, Chief Executive Officer of Moorundi Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Service Ltd said the Centre will be welcomed.
“It was 23 years ago when the Ngarrindjeri community identified the need for an Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Service in Murray Bridge to address serious issues around health and wellbeing for the Aboriginal Community,” said Mr Sumner.
“This new facility will allow Moorundi to bring cultural safety and integrity in alignment with key primary health care principles, such as equity, accessibility, community participation, intersectoral collaboration and appropriate technology through a purpose-built facility."
Following funding from the Indigenous Land and Sea Corporation (ILSC), and the Commonwealth Department of Health and Aged Care (DH&AC), Moorundi Health Centre was designed in collaboration with Moorundi staff and Aboriginal members.
The centre will provide care in a culturally safe space, celebrating Ngarrindjeri culture, and is now large enough to accommodate wellbeing services, allied health, as well as Elders’ and children’s programs.
With a focus on sharing cultural knowledge and language, which ultimately leads to increased holistic health outcomes, local Indigenous practices are now set to be revitalised for generations to come.
ILSC Group Chief Executive Officer, Joe Morrison, hailed the opening of Moorundi Health Centre as a success, noting its significance within the community.
“The ILSC is stronger when we partner with the community. By investing in Indigenous peoples, we support their future aspirations for their community,” said Mr Morrison.
“Community ties and connections will be strengthened at Moorundi, and economic self-determination will in turn prosper, with new revenue opportunities streaming from the centre.
“This health centre is vital for the local Aboriginal people who will benefit greatly from its holistic care in the years to come.”
Larger office spaces and conference rooms feature as part of the fit-out, as well as an administration and reception area, a playroom with nature play space, and increased storage.
As a result of the enhanced space, an increase in clients from the growing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander population in the region is expected.
For more information: South Australia | Moorundi Aboriginal Community Controlled Health
