The Nursing Post - Issue 16: Indigenous Health

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The Career and Education Magazine for Nurses and Health Professionals

INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

Indigenous Health

20 August 2012

- ISSUE 16

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Editor’s note...

Hi Readers, Welcome to Issue 16 of The Nursing Post magazine.

This issue, Curtin University midwifery lecturer, Anna Bosco speaks about the need to further develop the national curriculum for midwifery. She shares with us her recent volunteering experience in Tanzania surrounded by colleagues with ‘worldly wisdom’ that faced many challenges in their daily practice and were trained to ‘expect the unexpected’.

Featuring Indigenous Health, we acknowledge the success of the University of NSW Shalom Gamarada Indigenous Scholarship Program, and congratulate 2012 National NAIDOC Scholar of the Year, Sarah Bourke as she strives to improve the health of all Indigenous Australians.

Studies have identified that on average Aboriginal children have middle ear infections for two and a half years of childhood. Non-Aboriginal children have it for three months. Under World Health Organisation guidelines this is classified as a pandemic for this group of children. Through the Earbus Program, Telethon Speech & Hearing are working to improve ear health and open pathways to successful learning and outcomes for Indigenous children.

We encourage you to continue sending in your photos and stories sharing your experiences with our readers.

Our next issue is out on Monday 3 September featuring Midwifery. Until then, take care.

Naomi Byrne Editor

On the Cover: The Remote Area Health Corps (RAHC)

Elissa Rowe (Registered Nurse) pictured with Courtney Armstrong from Imanpa. Feature article on pg. 20

Next Issue:

Midwifery ABN: 28 105 044 282 PO BOX 6213, East Perth, WA, 6892 Ph: +(618) 9325 3917 | Fax: +(618) 9325 4037 E: artwork@nursingpost.com.au W: www.nursingpost.com.au Next Publication Details: Issue 17: 3 September 2012 Material Deadline: 27 August 2012 Printed by Westcare Pty Ltd Editor and Graphic Designer Naomi Byrne Sales and Marketing Manager Michael Kuhnert

Send in your photos and stories to... artwork@nursingpost.com.au 2

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Contents...

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Challenger first to roll out broadband nursing training

8

2012 WA Nursing and Midwifery Excellence Awards

10 12

Curtin midwifery expert visits Tanzania

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University of NSW

16

2012 National NAIDOC Awards

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Developing a new national midwifery curriculum

Being one with a global community Curtin midwifery lecturer, Anna Bosco shares her experience volunteering in Tanzania

Shalom Gamarada Indigenous Scholarship Program Scholar of the Year, Sarah Bourke is working to improve the health of all Indigenous Australians

Speech & Hearing 18 Telethon The Earbus Program helping to ‘close the gap’ Remote Area Health Corps (RAHC) 20 The From Melbourne to Imanpa Courses, 27 Educational Conferences and Events: • • • • •

List of courses, conferences and events PRIDoC 2012 Indigenous Doctors Congress Cultural Safety and Pallitive Care 2013 ICN 25th Quadrennial Nurses Congress Oceania University of Medicine

Career Advertising: Inside Front Pg 13

22 Pg 36 Inside Back Back Cover

Institute of Health and Nursing (IHNA) RNS Nursing Agency Medacs Healthcare Nursing Agency RCNA Royal College of Nursing Australia Urapuntja Health Service CQ Nursing Agency Mediserve Nursing Agency Mediserve Nursing Agency Miwatj Aboriginal Health The Remote Area Health Corps (RAHC)

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Recipes 32 Healthy We welcome Emily Tan of

Fuss Free Cooking who joins us fortnightly to share her delicious healthy recipes

and Culture 34 Arts Flinders Lane Gallery, Melbourne

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Challenger Institute of Technology Diploma of Nursing students Front L-R: Marwa Abdalla (Applecross) and Carly Rosenberg (Secret Harbour) Back L-R: Wynonna Wells (Rockingham) and John Teruel (Yangebup)

Challenger first to roll out broadband nursing training In a national first, Challenger Institute of Technology has launched remote real-time nursing training via the National Broadband Network.

High resolution digital cameras are being used to stream training sessions at Challenger’s state-of-the-art nursing facility at Murdoch to its Mandurah campus and throughout the Peel region.

Challenger Institute hospitality and human services director Kerry Donovan said the unique live training project allowed Peel students, who were based 70km away from Murdoch, to experience learning inside Challenger’s nursing ward.

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“Cameras capture skill demonstrations at our Murdoch campus and web-conferencing technology streams these sessions live to students at our Peel campus and at learning centres in Boddington, Waroona and Mundijong,” she said.

“These demonstrations include training using three hightech clinical patient simulators at the Murdoch campus that might otherwise not be available to the Peel students.

“The use of this technology not only offers students in Peel the opportunity to experience our nursing ward and its sophisticated equipment, it also facilitates two-way communication so that the students are able to interact with Murdoch trainers, ask questions and contribute to

discussions.”

embraced by students.

Ms Donovan said the initiative was part of Challenger’s commitment to offering flexible training delivery in the Peel region, where there was a growing demand for courses in the skills shortage areas of nursing, community services, aged care, education and hospitality.

“The students involved are very satisfied with being able to engage live with the base trainer at the time of the broadcast,” she said.

“Challenger has a focus on keeping people learning and working in the Peel region and the NBN has huge potential benefits for both our students and the local community,” she said.

“We are the only training organisation in Western Australia with both metropolitan and regional training delivery, which makes e-learning technology very valuable for us.

“While this project was piloted with nursing and aged care students, this model of streaming live learning will be applicable to other campuses and courses across the Institute.”

Peel campus nursing and aged care course coordinator Jenni Hull said the e-learning technology had been

“The advantages of using this technology in the future to improve training opportunities for aged care qualifications and nursing courses are many.

The technology introduces students to highly sophisticated training material which they don’t have access to at their home campus. And the ability to capture lessons on video for future reference is also very useful.”

Challenger’s Limitless eLearning: Beyond the classroom project was supported with funding from the National VET E-Learning Strategy. National NBN program manager Fiona Huskinson said the strategy’s NBN E-learning Programs provided opportunities to demonstrate the power of broadband to enhance outcomes for learners, and to promote growth in broadband-based training as the NBN rollout proceeded.

Diploma of Nursing students Rebecca Lomana (Rockingham) and John Teruel (Yangebup)

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2012 WA Nursing and Midwifery Excellence Awards

Recognising Excellence The WA Nursing & Midwifery Excellence Awards are firmly focused on recognising excellence and all worthy Western Australian nurses and midwives, irrespective of their area of practice or place of work, are eligible for nomination.

Excellence can be reflected in many ways, often as a talent or quality that is unusually good and surpasses ordinary standards.

A total of 42 of Western Australia’s best nurses and midwives will vie for top honours at the prestigious 2012 WA Nursing and Midwifery Excellence Awards in September.

Announcing the finalists on Monday 30 July, Health Minister Kim Hames said judges would find it hard to pick category winners, as each of the finalists’ commitment to their profession was inspirational.

“These 42 nurses and midwives have been chosen from 165 nominations across a diverse range of categories, including Graduate of the Year; Rural and Remote Midwife 8

of the Year; and Emerging Leader of the Year,” Dr Hames said.

“The finalists are based throughout Western Australia and have demonstrated excellence in their fields, going above and beyond their normal duties to make a positive difference to their patients and colleagues.

“Their success will inspire others to consider an exciting career in nursing and midwifery.”

The Minister said WA’s 35,000 nurses and midwives were among the best in the world and these awards were a way of recognising their hard work and dedication “I congratulate all finalists and commend them for their achievement,” he said.

Winners, including 2012 WA Nurse/Midwife of the Year and the recipient of the 2012 Lifetime Achievement Honour, will be announced at a gala dinner on Saturday September 22.

Congratulations to our 2012 finalists...

Metropolitan Acute Care Enrolled Nurse • Wendy Raphael - Princess Margaret Hospital for Children • Sharon Allcock - St John of God Hospital, Subiaco • Michelle Nichols - Fremantle Hospital and Health Services Rural and Remote Registered Nurse • Kristy Cooper - Coral Bay Nursing Post • Lynn Dakin - Albany Hospital • Julie Hancocks - Geraldton Hospital Metropolitan Acute Care Registered Nurse • Chrissie Ewens - Perth Clinic • Kelly-Ann Hahn - WA Country Health Service/ Royal Perth Hospital • Kyla Tilbury - Hollywood Private Hospital

Research and Innovative Practice • Karen Heslop - Royal Perth Hospital • Paula Sheehan - Fremantle Hospital and Health Services • Karen Hall - Osborne Park Hospital Emerging Leader • Laura Black - Southern Country Health Service / Silver Chain • Caroline McGuiness - Mercy Hospital, Mount Lawley • Patricia Morgan - Osborne Park Hospital Preceptor of the Year • Janelle Kagioris - Joondalup Health Campus • Maree Woodward - Mercy Hospital, Mount Lawley • Elena Adams - Osborne Park Hospital Graduate of the Year • Cathy Trunkfield - Fremantle Hospital and Health Services • Heidi Doetsch - Osborne Park Hospital • Sarah Isbill - Narrogin Hospital

Metropolitan Midwife • Donna Baker - Osborne Park Hospital • Mel Mott - St John of God Hospital, Murdoch • Sara Schouten - Kaleeya Hospital • Alicia Pearce - King Edward Memorial Hospital for Women

Emerging Leader • Laura Black - Southern Country Health Service / Silver Chain • Caroline McGuiness - Mercy Hospital, Mount Lawley • Patricia Morgan - Osborne Park Hospital

Rural and Remote Midwife • Samantha Smith - Esperance Health Service • Marie Hill - Bridgetown Hospital

Preceptor of the Year • Janelle Kagioris - Joondalup Health Campus • Maree Woodward - Mercy Hospital, Mount Lawley • Elena Adams - Osborne Park Hospital

Community and Primary Care • Helen MacArthur - Broome Community Health Service • Elizabeth Howse - Silver Chain • Chrissie McDowell - Pilbara Population Health

Graduate of the Year • Cathy Trunkfield - Fremantle Hospital and Health Services • Heidi Doetsch - Osborne Park Hospital • Sarah Isbill - Narrogin Hospital

Residential and Aged Care • Lyn Maitland - Brightwater Care Group, Marangaroo House • Christine Fowler - Mercy Aged Care • Denise Hills - Oxford Gardens Care Facility

Aboriginal Health • Alicia Bellotti - Geraldton Hospital • Jodie Mackell - North Metropolitan Health Service • Grace McCarthy - Kimberley Population Health Unit

Education • Jill Smith - Royal Perth Hospital • Rosemarie Winsor - Trigg Health Care Centre • Rosemary Saunders - University of Western Australia

Consumer Appreciation Award • Veronica Keys - Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital • Toni-Jade Nieroba - Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital • Galina Todorova - Royal Perth Hospital

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Curtin University

Curtin midwifery expert visits Tanzania Developing a new national midwifery curriculum

Anna Bosco of Bassendean was selected by the Global Health Alliance Western Australia (GHAWA) to work with local health professionals to develop the national midwifery curriculum and associated learning materials for educators across the country.

The national midwifery curriculum, which will be launched in September, is grounded in the United Nations Millennium Developmental Goals aimed at reducing child mortality and improving maternal health.

Ms Bosco said it was a great honor to represent Curtin University and GHAWA at the two-week curriculum meeting in Dodoma, the nation’s capital.

“It was wonderful to work collaboratively with a group of academics from a number of universities in Tanzania and with representatives from the Ministry of Health,” Ms Bosco said.

Ms Bosco was also engaged by GHAWA to work with nursing students at the Faculty of Nursing at Hubert Kairuki Memorial University.

Ms Bosco said Tanzanian nursing students faced challenges such as coping with high numbers of pregnant women and tackling the many difficult situations that women experience when giving birth in a developing country.

“Students are trained to expect the unexpected,” Ms Bosco said.

“A great example of this was when a woman came in 10

“

Tanzanian nursing students faced challenges such as coping with high numbers of pregnant women and tackling the many difficult situations that women experience when giving birth in a developing country.

“

A Curtin midwifery lecturer has worked with Tanzanian health professionals to develop a new national midwifery curriculum.

with undiagnosed twins, which would be unheard of in Australia.”

“The twins were birthed without any difficulty and were embraced by their mother, which is a compliment to the high standard of training the students are receiving.”

“Teaching issues that I experienced were due to lack of available communication, resources such as books and equipment, access to the internet, technology and access to a constant power supply, which we just take for granted in Australia.

“Access to the internet is critical as it provides a connection to the latest developments in midwifery and nursing across the globe that can be used in9practice in Tanzania to make a real difference.”

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Curtin University is one of the five WA universities within 18, 19 GHAWA working in partnership with the Department of Health WA to improve maternal and child health in 22 - 24 developing countries around the Indian Ocean Rim.

Anna Bosco in Tanzania.

Being one with a global community Curtin midwifery lecturer, Anna Bosco shares her experience...

Curtin is one of the five WA universities within the Global Health Alliance of Western Australia (GHAWA), working in partnership with the Department of Health WA to improve maternal and child health in developing countries around the Indian Ocean Rim. My recent volunteering experience to Tanzania resulted from a student accompanied trip in late 2011. This recent stay of nearly 4 months was an unexpected delight.

My goal was to share my nursing and midwifery clinical and academic experience with two Universities in Dar Es

Salaam. Each of these Universities had different priorities and foci and I was successful in furthering educational outcomes relevant to each of these sectors.

My role supported peer to peer development of nurse teachers, clinical supervisors and nursing and midwifery academics in their various roles in undergraduate education both in the classroom and in the clinical area.

“

The related work was to further develop the national curriculum for midwifery and associated learning materials that is to be used by midwifery tutors across the country.

“

Our professional lives encompass accountability and ethical practice. In our personal lives we aspire to reach goals and dreams that make us all, as individuals, happy and fulfilled. These two paths, for me, converged in Tanzania. I lived and worked in Tanzania as a representative of Curtin University WA and of GHAWA.

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Curtin University

I was the sole international delegate in the group of 24 Tanzanian University academic, clinical experts and Ministry of Health representatives, involved in the meeting.

To represent GHAWA and Curtin University at this meeting was not something I had even thought would ever eventuate. How lucky was I! The Midwifery Curriculum is grounded in the United Nations Millenium Development Goals aimed at reducing child mortality and improving maternal health.

Ongoing goals at the Faculty of Nursing at Hubert Kairuki Memorial University (HKMU) were to improve nursing student’s clinical learning. This was achieved through the inaugural and recently appointed role of clinical supervisor.

“

(It) was not about transposing what happens in an Australian midwifery context, but rather was about understanding the needs and social cultural context of Tanzania.

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I was honoured to be invited by the Principal of the Midwifery School, Dr Rose Laisser, to work with her and a team of midwifery leaders in the Tanzanian capital of Dodoma. The related work was to further develop the national curriculum for midwifery and associated learning materials that is to be used by midwifery tutors across the country.

We compared and contrasted our health care service provision, clinical education and discussed legislation, policy and evidence based practice.

In reflection, I am aware that this professional exposure enlisted in me a deeper personal learning. I established and built many strong relationships through reciprocity and respect. I recognised early in my experience that my newly found friends and colleagues had worldly wisdom that was different to first world countries’.

In my capacity as participator/facilitator I was invited to observe, participate and engage with student clinical practice which included general medical surgical nursing, midwifery - including labour ward, high risk antenatal care, neonates and the postnatal ward; psychiatric nursing care, emergency nursing and outpatients departments.

It became evident that developing and working with midwifery educational curricula was not about transposing what happens in an Australian midwifery context, but rather was about understanding the needs and social cultural context of Tanzania. The dialogue was about sharing developments in teaching and learning that maximised the development of students’ critical thinking whilst being mindful of resource limitations and the importance of maintaining a humanistic approach to education.

I feel that the practical experience I gained from this clinical supervision work in the midwifery setting (which formed part of my HKMU responsibilities) helped me to more fully contribute to the development process of the Midwifery Curriculum.

Some of the main teaching and learning issues I encountered related to available communication, resources (books and equipment), internet access, technology and a constant available power supply for students and academics.

In engaging with academic colleagues, nurses, midwives, hospital managers and administrators and other health professionals I used many of the values and attitudes that we encourage and teach our students to use: mindfulness, patience, perseverance, empathy, intentionality and a sense of humour. I am immensely grateful for the knowledge and practice that my Tanzanian colleagues and I were able to share.

The country is developing fast and is aspiring to be a modern Tanzania. However, the daily life realities of unpredictable and haphazard access to the internet or electricity are very challenging. Once these are resolved, I am confident that academics, and thus students, will have an awareness and access to appropriate African evidence-based guidelines and research relevant for learning and health care development.

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I feel my greatest achievement was on a personal level where I found a community willing to embrace and teach me. I felt empowered and stimulated in my work and relationships.

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In the midwifery setting, there are many clinical challenges that students face, this includes the precarious nature of childbirth, and whilst it is hoped that mothers and their child have a safe passage during pregnancy, childbirth and the postpartum, this is not always a predictable and assured outcome.

Preparing, mentoring and debriefing students for these possible scenarios as well as having to cope with large numbers of women in childbirth are further challenges.

Despite this, students are encouraged to expect the unexpected.

I was fortunate enough to actualise many dreams during my sojourn to Tanzania. Whilst it is understandable that there is great satisfaction in being a productive team participant, I feel my greatest achievement was on a personal level where I found a community willing to embrace and teach me. I felt empowered and stimulated in my work and relationships. These feelings spilled into the people who shared my life and they, too, became empowered and stimulated.

The cycle flowed from my professional to my personal life, and from their professional to their personal lives. We were all good for each other and our communication, trust and respect is timeless. The community of people, both local and international, became my Tanzanian family.

The opportunity for an ongoing contribution is there, and to continue working with my Tanzanian colleagues is certainly an ongoing plan for me! I need to discuss this further with my Head of School and Director of GHAWA.

Work where you are valued and cared for Placements in rural, remote, coastal and city locations Your needs, interests and skills matched to placements Team rewards and CPD programs

I would strongly encourage academics and/or clinicians interested in working in programs such as the one offered

by GHAWA to pursue their interests and dreams.

Written by Anna Bosco

call 1300 761 351 email work@rnsnursing.com.au www.rnsnursing.com.au 13

Indigenous Health

University of NSW

The Shalom Gamarada Indigenous Scholarship Program

Jenna Owen, Optometry graduate At the annual fundraising art exhibition Right - Graduation ceremony pictured with Chief Executive Officer, Dr Hilton Immerman

The Shalom Gamarada Scholarship Program has assisted 51 students study medicine, optometry and health science since it’s beginning in 2005.

In 2011, there were 22 Indigenous scholarship students residing at Shalom College. Of these, 20 passed their year of studies – many very comfortably. This is a 90% pass rate which is better than national averages for nonIndigenous Australians and vastly better than the drop-out rate of about 60% for Indigenous students at Australian universities.

The program offers residence at Shalom College to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students studying at 14

UNSW. The program runs in partnership with UNSW’s Nura Gili Indigenous Programs and the Muru Marri Indigenous Health Unit.

The program’s name comes from the term Gamarada ngiyani yana in the Eora language (the coastal Aboriginal people of Sydney) and is translated as “We walk together as friends.”

Jenna Owen completed her five year degree with a distinction average, graduating in 2010. She is a member of the Wiradjuri People, the first ever Indigenous optometrist in NSW and only the second in Australia.

“Being an Indigenous student from a rural area, it would have been impossible for me to study Optometry having to live so far away from home because of the financial stress of accommodation, living expenses and travel costs.

Dr Josef McDonald, Medicine graduate pictured at the annual fundraising art exhibition

The Shalom Gamarada Scholarship Program helps to alleviate these problems by providing financial support, eliminating travelling time and creating an environment conducive to learning through tutoring and counselling support.

Dr Josef McDonald graduated last year and is working as an Intern Medical Officer with Hunter New England Health District, now completing a term at Manning Base Hospital in Taree. Originally from Newcastle NSW, McDonald is a member of the Awabakal People.

“The Shalom Gamarada Scholarship has been a lifechanging experience. The fact that I have had a friendly and supportive home, with healthy meals on campus, lets me do the job I have to do to pass my exams.

The Shalom Gamarada Scholarship has made my dream a reality and enabled me to be the first member of my family to attend university. Receiving the Shalom Gamarada Scholarship, and living at Shalom College, was an amazing experience for me. It made the cultural adjustment to studying and living in the city so much easier through the support I received in college.

Education is such a vital tool in the development of a healthy future for Aboriginal communities. I am so proud and grateful to have had the opportunity to achieve my goals through this scholarship and better serve my people.”

The premise behind the scholarship is to make a contribution to closing the gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians.

Many Indigenous students find it difficult to succeed at university because they: • commonly come from disadvantaged educational and socio-economic backgrounds • often live far from campus and spend many hours each day travelling on public transport • generally have to find part-time work to help support themselves • are seldom part of a “learning community” as their family members and friends are unlikely to have had opportunities to participate in higher education.

The scholarship - without question - has allowed me to stay at uni and get on with my dream of becoming a doctor. I really want to go into public health when I finish and make a difference to my people.

I lived at Shalom College for 6 years. It was a life-changing experience for me. I had time to work hard at uni, in a racism-free environment in which Indigenous students can live proudly. Without this scholarship it would have been impossible for me to study medicine as there is no way my family could afford for me to live in Sydney.

In 2008, our research team developed a more accurate indicator of antibiotic use in children. I plan to continue my research interests in the field of Indigenous health.

There is no substitute for Indigenous health professionals from the local community who are known and respected.

The Scholarship is providing Indigenous people with the opportunity for self-determination regarding their health outcomes.”

McDonald aims to improve the mental health of Indigenous Australians which he believes is vital towards closing the gap.

The college currently has a number of Indigenous students completing courses in medicine and health science.

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Indigenous Health

2012 National NAIDOC Award Winners

Scholar of the Year working to improve the health of all Indigenous Australians Twelve outstanding Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians were honoured at the 2012 National NAIDOC Awards Ceremony and Ball in Hobart Friday 6 July.

The awards highlight the outstanding contributions that Indigenous Australians make to improve the lives of people in their communities and beyond or to promote Indigenous issues in the wider community, or the excellence they’ve shown in their chosen field.

On behalf of the National NAIDOC Committee, it is with great pleasure that we announce the 2012 National NAIDOC Award winners.

Minister for Families, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs, Jenny Macklin, presented the 2012 Lifetime Achievement Award to Bunna Lawrie, a respected Mirning Elder from South Australia.

Scholar of the Year, Sarah Bourke.

Photo courtesy of The Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs.

Bunna Lawrie is an inspirational role model who reaches people through the gift of music and has been a major contributor to Australian music as a solo artist and founding member of the band Coloured Stone.

The 2012 Person of the Year Award was sponsored by the Commonwealth Bank of Australia. This award went to David Wirrpanda for his work with Indigenous young people and the establishment of the David Wirrpanda Foundation. David will receive a $20,000 bursary to assist him to continue his amazing work.

Awards were issued across 10 categories and included joint winners for the Sportsperson of the Year and Female Elder or the Year Awards.

The 2012 National NAIDOC Award recipients are: • • • • 16

Lifetime Achievement Award – Bunna Lawrie, South Australia Person of the Year – David Wirrpanda, Victoria Female Elder of the Year – Margaret Lawton, Queensland and Maureen Kelly, Western Australia Male Elder of the Year – Hezekiel Jingoonya, Northern Territory

•

• • •

•

•

Caring for Country – Bunya Bunya Country Aboriginal Corporation, Queensland Youth of the Year – Benson Saulo, Victoria Artist of the Year – Stephen Page, Queensland Scholar of the Year – Sarah Bourke,

Australian Capital Territory Apprentice of the Year – Michael Clinch, South Australia Sportsperson of the Year – Vanessa Wilson, South Australia and Joshua Robinson, Queensland.

Our deepest congratulations go to all the 2012 National NAIDOC Award winners. Your achievements and commitment to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and culture is exceptional.

The 2012 National NAIDOC Awards Ceremony and Ball was the highlight of an exciting and diverse week of NAIDOC activities across Australia.

Held at the Hotel Grand Chancellor Hobart, the event was attended by more than 750 guests from across the country including many Tasmanian traditional owners and community representatives, as well high profile names in Indigenous affairs such as Tom Calma, Michael Dodson and Lowitja O’Donoghue.

The night featured an impressive line-up of Indigenous entertainment including comedian Sean Choolburra, local sensation Dewayne Everettsmith, the very talented Emma Donovan and country music legend Troy Cassar-Daley.

Scholar of the Year Sarah Bourke

Sarah Bourke knew from a young age that she wanted to attend university. With the support of her family and her commitment to her academic pursuits, she has had the opportunity to follow her dreams.

At Radford College in Canberra, Sarah’s academic talent was evident. She was listed on the 2002 Radford College Academic Honour Roll and in 2007 was selected to attend the National Youth Science Forum at the Australian National University.

Sarah went on to complete a double degree in science and arts at the Australian National University and is now completing the Honours Program, researching biological anthropology from an Aboriginal perspective. While at university, Sarah received many scholarships and awards.

This year Sarah received the Neville Bonner Memorial Scholarship and Sally White-Diane Barwick Award.

On top of her studies, Sarah finds time for fundraising, volunteer work and mentoring other students.

Sarah’s goal is to become a leader in her field and make lasting changes to how governments, organisations and individuals address improving the health of all Indigenous Australians.

We congratulate Sarah on her achievement!

Once again congratulations to the National NAIDOC Poster Competition winner, Amanda Joy Tronc, for her inspirational artwork based on this year’s theme Spirit of the Tent Embassy – 40 years on. Amanda was honoured to be presented with a framed copy of the National NAIDOC Poster on the night by Aboriginal Tent Embassy Founder, Michael Anderson.

The National NAIDOC Committee would like to recognise the Australian Government’s support for NAIDOC events across the country.

The committee would also like to thank all those volunteers and community members who have invested significant time and energy in making NAIDOC Week a huge success again this year.

It has been announced that Perth will be the focus city for national NAIDOC celebrations in 2013.

Congratulations Perth!

For more information on NAIDOC Week and the 2012 National NAIDOC Award winners, visit www.naidoc.org.au 17

Indigenous Health

Telethon Speech & Hearing Helping to Close the Gap Indigenous Australian children are prone to frequent and severe episodes of ear infection or inflammation. On average Aboriginal children have middle ear infections for two and a half years of childhood. Non-Aboriginal children have it for three months. Under World Health Organisation guidelines this is classified as a pandemic for this group of children.

Studies have identified that 40% of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children acquire middle ear disease immediately after birth. One in three children has a perforated eardrum before the age of two.

A major reason behind the disparity in disease distribution 18

is the lack of effective primary health care and poor access to specialist services.

TSH was inspired by the work and vision of Professor Harvey Coates AO - a Paediatric Otolaryngologist and Clinical Professor at the University of Western Australia, and Senior ENT Surgeon at Princess Margaret Hospital for Children. Professor Coates saw the effectiveness of an outreach program in New Zealand and believed a similar service was needed in WA. In 2008, TSH embarked on its journey in helping Aboriginal Australian children with one bus travelling to schools in the east metro area of Perth. There are now 4 buses in operation.

The Earbus program is a network of mobile ear clinics providing ear health checks to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children who are most at serious risk of middle ear disease and resultant hearing loss. The program is run by Telethon Speech & Hearing (TSH) in the Perth metropolitan area, South West and Pilbara regions of Western Australia and services are offered to primary schools, preschools kindergartens and playgroups.

If a child can’t hear, they can’t learn and this leads to all sorts of problems with their achievement in the classroom.

Children are not born with ear infections but they can get an ear infection soon after birth. Children do not have the same immunity to viruses and bacteria as adults therefore are prone to middle ear infections.

Children with excellent hearing are more likely to learn language and speech; learn to read and write; feel part of the family and community and do well at school.

The most common symptoms of middle ear infections (otitis media) in babies and young children are earache and fever. Parents may also notice the child does not always respond to them or starts to turn the television up louder than usual. Infections can be very painful but usually do not last very long. It usually resolves itself or can be treated with antibiotics. However, if the infection does not heal, fluid in the middle ear can accumulate.

Middle ear infections can lead to glue ear which is a thick fluid in the middle ear which causes temporary deafness.

The ears are connected by the nose by a tube. This tube is shorter in children and if a child has a cold or illness, their ears can get fluid and become blocked.

Left untreated, otitis media can lead to hearing loss and medical complications. Long-term otitis media can result in mild to moderate hearing loss which can impact on a child’s speech, language acquisition and learning and overall development. Severe otitis media can result in permanent hearing loss.

“Children who can’t hear, can’t learn. Releasing children’s potential begins with healthy ears and Telethon Speech & Hearing is committed to making a valuable contributionin closing the gap,” said Lara Shur, Manager of Audiology Services.

A fully trained Earbus screener works on each Earbus.

TSH provides an extensive training program for Earbus screeners run by specialist paediatric audiologists.

Audiologists are university trained health professionals who specialise in testing hearing and balance.

In addition to the trained hearing screeners, the Earbus team can include: a doctor, nurse, Aboriginal Outreach Worker, Aboriginal Liaison Officer and Ear Nose and Throat (ENT) specialist. This group of professionals provide a comprehensive medical service for children who have been screened and are identified to have middle ear disease.

If a school nurse or child health nurse of a visited site believes a non-Aboriginal child requires screening or treatment, the Earbus will check the child upon parental consent.

Telethon Speech & Hearing envisions that improved ear health will open pathways to successful learning and outcomes for children of the First Australian Nation.

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Indigenous Health

The Remote Area Health Corps (RAHC) From Melbourne to Imanpa

Are you looking for a career change – or even just a shortterm opportunity to further your skills and experience a different way of life?

“I would recommend it in a heartbeat,” said Elissa Rowe, a Melbournian currently nursing in Imanpa, two hours from Alice Springs on the road to Uluru.

The Remote Area Health Corps (RAHC) provides significant support to the hard-working permanent health workforce in remote communities across the Northern Territory, though short-term placements of urban-based health professionals.

Elissa has many fond memories of her time in the Northern Territory and has met and worked with lots of great people.

With the support of RAHC there are plenty of opportunities for urban-based nurses to use their skills as part of the effort to close the gap.

RAHC offers short-term, paid placements in over 100 remote Indigenous communities in the Northern Territory.

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“I’ve had so much fun out here and I’ve loved the people that I’ve worked - the people in the community have been really welcoming. It’s just a whole new experience that I never expected.”

“You drive around the community to deliver tablets or find a person, and smell the waft of campfires - an experience like that is not exactly common at home in Melbourne.”

Working remotely is a challenge that many nurses from around the country have relished, however most agree that nursing skills need to be of a very high standard to assist with your work in the Indigenous communities.

Since inception in 2008, RAHC has placed over 1600 health professionals in remote Indigenous communities throughout the Northern Territory and is looking to reach over 2000 by the end of the next financial year.

“I think to work in a community that is remote, you have to have a broad background and a broad range of experiences because you’re not just a nurse out here, you are everything – doctor, nurse, ambo, social worker, colleague and friend,” Elissa said.

RAHC organises everything for your trip from the time you sign up to when you arrive back home. RAHC provides comprehensive training including online training modules to help prepare you for your time in the remote communities and delivers support 24/7 throughout your placement.

“You have to be everything to the people out here because their resources are so limited.”

“I would recommend to other nurses that they should have at least five years of experience in nursing because you have to be confident in your practice. Having a critical care background is also highly beneficial.”

The opportunity to work as part of a team and contribute to helping to close the gap for our Indigenous population is very possible with the help of RAHC.

Elissa Rowe (Registered Nurse) pictured with Courtney Armstrong from Imanpa.

If you are looking to make a difference and are ready for a life-changing experience, visit the RAHC website (www.rahc.com.au) to find out how.

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Agency Contracts - Rural QLD and NSW • • • •

Is your current agency not meeting your needs?

Want to deal with friendly consultants who value the work you do on each and every contract?

Looking to join an agency that is known for its service excellence in the industry?

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RNs, EN,s AINs Leading Hourly Rates Travel & Accomm Benefits Sign On Bonuses* Referral Fees* 24/7 Service CPD Training Weekly Payroll Full Insurance Cover Designated Consultants

ED RN - 3 Month Role Central NSW - August Start Weekly Cash Top Up

Midwives Permanent Roles Brisbane

Theatre/Scrub RNs Regional NSW- ASAP Weekly Cash Top Up

Rural / Remote Area RNs Range Of Contracts Immediate Start Mental Inpatient RN NSW - 3 Month Contract Immediate Start

RN- Emergency 12 Week Contracts NSW & NT - ASAP

For more information, talk to Jen Gavenlock or Donna Gould in the Medacs Healthcare Nursing team.

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Contact Us Email: nurses@medacs.com.au Telephone: 1800 059 790 For a full list of our opportunities around the world go to: www.medacs.com.au

nursing & midwifery

iJuply 20s12 sdah r schol a Op en s M on y 23

Clos es Fri da y 14 Se pt e m be r 2012

Get an application from

www.rcna.org.au | freecall 1800 117 262 Nursing and Allied Health Scholarship and Support Scheme (NAHSSS) is funded by the Australian Government.

RCNA, Australia’s peak professional nursing organisation, is proud to partner the Australian Government as the fund administrator for this program.

Specialised Registered Nurses to work in various locations all across Melbourne!

Must have AHPRA registration

Please contact our Melbourne office on (03) 9629 3780 m e d i s e r ve

nursing agency

melbourne@mediserve.com.au www.mediserve.com.au 23

UTOPIA

Urapuntja Health Service Aboriginal Corporation

Exciting new opportunities for true believers in Primary Health Care This is your chance to take a crucial role in an organisation whose mission is to maximize Indigenous Health Located in the Northern Territory, our clinics are some of the only remote PHC’s that travel out to outstations and do clinics. We have a focus on partnering with communities and we offer a friendly and supportive team environment.

We are currently seeking the following full time and permanent positions...

• Registered Nurses • Registered Midwives • Health Promotion Officer Previous experience preferred in Primary Health Care, Remote Health and/or ED. Also, good communication and computer skills, and 4WD ability.

For further information, please contact Sherilyn Oliver (Clinical Nurse Manager) on (08) 8956 9875 or by email cnc.urapuntja@gmail.com

24

25

Calling all...

Nurses and Midwives

Mediserve Nursing Agency welcomes Nurses from Australia and New Zealand...

Join the preferred supplier of Nurses today!

Positions available throughout regional, rural and all capital cities Phone: 1300 305 594 Visit us at www.mediserve.com.au 9 Email: nurses@mediserve.com.au 12

18, 19 22- 24

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Educational Courses, Conferences and Events

Targeted Therapies in Cancer Treatments Cancer Council WA, Shenton Park Perth 21 August 2012, 2 - 4pm Contact PaSCE to register (08) 9382 9300 www.cancerwa.asn.au/

7th World Conference on the Promotion of Mental Health and the Prevention of Mental and Behavioural Disorders Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre 17 - 19 October 2012 www.perth2012.org/index.html

Diabetes Refresher Mercure Hotel Hobart, Tasmania 23 - 24 August 2012 www.ausmed.com.au/course/registration-1353

Australian and New Zealand Childrens Haematology/Oncology Group Annual Scientific Meeting ‘The Challenge of Relapse Disease’ Outrigger Surfers Paradise, Queensland

RCNA Community and Primary Health Care Nursing Conference 2012 The Vines Resort, Swan Valley Perth 17 - 19 October 2012 www.rcna.org.au

37th Annual ANZICS/ACCCN Intensive Care Annual Scientific Meeting (ASM)

24 - 26 August 2012 www.anzchog2012.org

Convention and Exhibition Centre, Adelaide

16th International Congress of Dietetics

2012 National Indigenous Health Conference: Many Pathways, One Outcome

Convention and Exhibition Centre, Sydney 5 - 8 September 2012 www.icd2012.com

25 - 27th October 2012 www.intensivecareasm.com.au

Watermark Hotel, Gold Coast 5 - 7th December 2012 www.indigenoushealth.net

ACMHN’s 38th International Mental Health Nursing Conference ‘The Fabric of Life’ Darwin Convention Centre

3 -5 October 2012, Optional workshops 2 October conventionhouse.com.au/acmhn2012/

ICN 25th Quadrennial Congress Equity and Access to Health Care Convention and Exhibition Centre, Melbourne 18 - 23th May 2013 www.icn2013.ch

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PRIDoC 2012

6TH PACIFIC REGION INDIGENOUS DOCTORS’ CONGRESS

h October 2012 3rd to 7t gs Alice Sprin

C O NNE C T E

Welcome to PRIDoC 2012 1800 190 498 | www.pridoc.org

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D NE S S

Cultural Safety and Palliative Care

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call fOr abstracts nOw Open

18–23

equity and access to health care

18–23 n nOw Open fOr Online abstract submissiO

the 2013 icn cOngress

– the largest ses 25th Quadrennial Congress The International Council of Nur .

2013 May in ralia Aust ing to international nurses event is com

drennial congress:

Key dates for the icn 25th Qua

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mis  16 AprIl 2012 – Online sub abstracts opens

abstract ) CET t nigh (mid es clos sion submis opens tion istra Reg – 2  14 SepTeMber 201 ract abst of ion  1 DeCeMber 2012 – Notificat acceptance

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CET t closes (midnigh

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RCNA Australian member of ICN

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tion deadline for

 11 JANuAry 2013 – Registra

RntoMBBS-nursingPost FPcol:Layout 1

9/3/12

What I like about OUM is that I can continue to work part time and continue my studies in medicine.

The ability to combine my studies with the cases I was seeing in the hospital really enhanced my education.

Vivian Ndukwe, RN from Melbourne, OUM Class of 2012

9:21 PM

Page 1

The best way to improve my career is to go into medicine.

I could have gone to a local uni, but I chose OUM because I have the flexibility of studying at home and interacting with other people online.

Phillip Denning, RN, from Sydney, OUM Class of 2016

With the course structure and support network of OUM, I am going to make my goal of becoming a physician.

A good physician.

Paris Pearce, Paramedic from Mackay, OUM Class of 2016

RN to MBBS

Your next logical step‌ become a physician.

Earn your MBBS at Oceania University of Medicine OUM graduates currently work in Australia, New Zealand, and USA. Receive personal attention from your own Academic Advisor.

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New 5-year undergraduate MBBS program launching soon for experienced health professionals.

New classes begin every January and August.

OCEANIA UNIVERSITY OF MEDICINE INTERNATIONALLY ACCREDITED

For more information visit www.RNtoMBBS.org or 1300 665 343

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Healthy recipes...

Delicious Leek, Lemon and Feta Bite-Sized Quiche •

• • • • • •

• • •

• •

4 sheets frozen puff pastry (used Pampas Reduced Fat Puff Pastry) 1 leek, finely sliced 2 tbsps olive oil 1 cup milk 1 cup cream 6 eggs 2 tsps freshly grated lemon zest (used 2 medium sized lemons) 1 tsp salt freshly ground black pepper 100g/3.5 ounces feta cheese, diced into 36 small pieces Cooking oil to grease a 12-hole cupcake pan A 7.5cm/3 inches diameter cookie cutter

Method: (1) Preheat oven to 190 degrees Celsius/ 375F. Thaw puff pastry according to package instructions. Grease cupcake pan with some cooking oil.

(2) Rinse off any visible dirt and slice the roots from the end. Remove the dark green tops, leaving the light green with the white portion of the leek. Slice the leek as thinly as possible. Rinse the sliced leek in a fine mesh colander to get rid of hidden dirt deep in the layers of the leek. Drain and pat dry with a kitchen towel.

(3) Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the leek and cook until it is just wilted (when the slices of leek are about to give off the liquid. Turn off the heat and set aside.

32

(4) In a large measuring jug, using a whisk of a fork, beat together the milk, cream, eggs, lemon zest, salt and pepper. Set aside.

(5) Place a sheet of thawed puff pastry (with the plastic divider still attached) on a chopping board, plastic side down. Use a cookie cutter and cut the sheet. A 7.5cm/3 inches in diameter cookie cutter can yield 9 portions per sheet.

(6) Transfer the cut puff pastry to cupcake tin. Press the pastry slightly in the hole to form a “cup” to hold the egg mixture.

(7) Distribute a small portion of leek into each hole. Pour the egg mixture and top with slices of feta cheese.

(8) Bake quiche for 20 minutes or until the egg filling is firm and the top surface is golden brown.

Rainbow Chard, Kale and Quinoa Salad •

•

• • • •

• •

Method: (1) Add quinoa and boiling water into a small pot and cook over high heat. When the mixture is boiling, lower the heat to the lowest and let it simmer until the water is almost absorbed by the quinoa.

Turn off the heat and let the quinoa sit until water is fully absorbed. (To make salad preparation a bit easier, I prefer this to be done ahead before making the salad.)

A bunch of rainbow chard and kale mix – about 7 stalks, washed, trimed and removed the fibrous ends 3 large portobello mushrooms, clean by using a paper towel 3 cloves of garlic A pinch of chilli flakes Olive oil for cooking 1/4 cup of uncooked quinoa & 1/2 cup of boiling water 2 eggs (optional) Salt to taste

(4) In a pan over medium heat, add garlic and chilli flakes with some olive oil.

(5) When the garlic begins to sizzle, add mushrooms and stir to combine for a minute. Mushrooms tend to absorb oil so add more olive oil to moisten.

(6) Add the stalk bits to the mushroom mixture. Cook until the stalk bits are slightly tender. Do this over low heat

(2) Finely chop garlic and slice portobello mushrooms. Set aside.

(7) Add the leaf bits and saute until tender over low heat.

Set aside while you start to cook a sunny side up omelette.

(3) Slice the chard and kale. Separate the stalk and the leaves.

(8) To serve, spoon the chard-kale mixture onto a plate, followed by quinoa and topped with an omelette.

We welcome Emily Tan of Fuss Free Cooking who joins us fortnightly to share her delicious healthy recipes... www.fussfreecooking.com 33

Arts&

Culture...

Interior by Greg Natale Designs

Flinders Lane Gallery

137 Flinders Lane, Melbourne

Alma Nungurrayi Granites An Outsider’s Perspective...

Alma Nungarrayi Granites is the daughter of Bessie Nakamarra Sims and Paddy Japaljarri Sims, two founding members of the Yuendumu art centre. She was born at 4 miles near Yuendumu. Her parents worked at 4 miles attending the market gardens, the piggery and the fruit trees that were grown for the town. Alma and her sisters travelled daily by foot to attend the local school located in Yuendumu. There she learnt to read and write in English and Warlpiri; her native language.

When the piggery and farm closed in the 1970s the family moved permanently to Yuendumu. Whilst at school Alma met her sweetheart Robin Japanangka Granites and they married as soon as they left school, they had 3 daughters; Sabrina, Valda and Geraldine and now Alma has many grandchildren.

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In the early days, Robin became a famous artist travelling the world with his work, whilst Alma was left behind dutifully looking after their children.

Alma’s interest in her background grew as she learned from her aunties, mother and father and other family members about their songs and country where the Jukurrpa takes place. Alma recalls the importance of the elders during her upbringing and the proud men and women that are the “carriers” of the Jukurrpa - the owners of the land where the Jukurrpa takes place and the law men and women that were looking after the preservation of the Jukurrpa.

Alma started painting in 1987 when she stopped working as a teacher assistant, but it really wasn’t until early 2007 that she earnestly took the step to becoming an accomplished artist.

Her main concern was about the Jukurrpa, the design and the stories passed on from her father and mother to her.

Alma wanted to learn all the aspects of the Jukurrpa so that she would be able to maintain and pass it onto the next generation. She wanted to maintain and continue the traditions of her famous father and mother.

followed and pursued by Jakamarra, for the sisters the only way to escape from him is to jump into the sky, and thus creating the constellation of the seven sisters.

Jakamarra seeing that the sisters are escaping from him into the night sky also jumps into the sky to continue the chase.

She learned, about the meaning of the kuruwarri, the songs and the dances associated to the Jukurrpa and the “right way” of representing them to be faithful to the cultural and social traditions of the Warlpiri people.

Alma’s evolution of painting technique is unique within Yuendumu painting tradition. She has been able to master expressive brush strokes and splashes of colours in combination with precise doting lines.

To expand her representation of the Jukurrpa, Alma studied the Seven Sisters Dreaming in depth through her father Paddy Japaljarri Sims and with visits to the country she has created a stronger connection to the land were the story takes place.

Alma’s paintings have a strong presence, they are a focal point in any setting, and they exuberate their richness in her pictorial technique and the knowledge of the Jukurrpa.

They have a calm and welcoming presence, like the night sky that they so strongly reflect.

The large round rocks of Yanjilpirri country are a powerful landscape were the sky and the land can melt at night time, the rocks seem to shimmer during the night creating an illusion of connection between these two powerful masses of land and sky.

As the night progresses the stars appear to generate from the rocky country below, as her father sings the songs associated to the country and the women dance by the campfire to the beat of the turruru (clapping sticks). Alma observes the country, the fire, the sky, the light, the colours and the connection and dislocations of land, sky and stars.

Alma’s deeper insight into the Jukurrpa of Napaljarri Warnu story, her study of the night sky and her mastering of her unique painting technique has been able to put a spin in the representation of a traditional Jukurrpa, her painting technique has developed from the traditional doting used by artist of the central desert to a more pictorial and free approach; the dots are melting with every brush stroke, splashes of colours are joining with the dots, dots are used under brushstrokes and again splashes are placed on top, mist of colours are carefully placed to create illusion of space, distance and closeness.

Every painting is carefully painted to express the feeling that she wants to achieve of the story.

Alma is depicting the story of the seven sisters, that are

For further information, please visit www.flg.com.au 35

New Zealand Nurses Wanted Mediserve is seeking Registered Nurses, Midwives and Specialty Nurses from New Zealand for work in the Great Australian Outback. We have exciting work available in the beautiful Northern Territory. With the warm weather, scenic views and stunning beaches, what more could you want?

We provide:

•Best rates (wages paid weekly) •Superanuation (9% of wages) •FULL insurance (Nurses/Midwives) •City/Rural contracts (Long/Short term) •Arranged accommodation •Jobs for all specialities and skills •8 years experience placing NZ nurses

FREESTFRLAILGIAHaTndS to AU xes) back to NZ (inc ta

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Professional Friendly Nursing 36

email: nurses@mediserve.com.au

Miwatj Health is an Aboriginal community controlled primary health care service based in the Nhulunbuy area. We are currently seeking applications from suitably qualified and experienced individuals to help us build on recent initiatives in primary health care aimed at improving the health of local people in Aboriginal communities on the Gove Peninsula.

Looking forward a rewarding experience and the chance to make a difference?

We currently have various positions available!

A minimum qualification as a Registered Nurse 4 is required for these positions. In addition there should be a commitment to working in a team situation with Aboriginal people and an ability to communicate effectively with team members and clients.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, POSITION DESCRIPTION AND SELECTION CRITERIA: PLEASE CONTACT THE HR MANAGER ON 08 8939 1901 OR EMAIL HR@MIWATJ.COM.AU.

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Be part of the effort To improve Indigenous health

Have you thought about being part of the effort to close the gap in Indigenous health outcomes?

RAHC has opportunities for urban-based Registered Nurses to undertake short-term paid placements in remote Indigenous communities in the NT. To find out more about remote placements with RAHC and how to get involved, visit our website today.

RAHC is committed to ensuring health professionals are well prepared and supported for their remote placements.

Get involved.

rahc.com.au