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Introducing our newest Life Members

As we celebrate 50 years of serving our community with pride we took this milestone opportunity to induct some new Life Members to our organisation.

Check out our newest members and read up on their inspirational stories and contributions to ATSICHS Brisbane below.

Dr Aunty Lilla Watson

Aunty Lilla, a Gangulu woman, made significant contributions to ATSICHS Brisbane. Aunty Lilla served as the inaugural president of AICCA and co-founded Brisbane Indigenous Media Association. She also sat on the Aboriginal and Islander Independent School Board. She received honorary doctorates from Queensland University of Technology and the University of Queensland. Aunty Lilla laid the foundation for crucial work in the child protection space at ATSICHS. It was her vision and passion for keeping children with mob, which saw our medical services expand and development into Human Service programs. This prompted the creation of ATSICHS Brisbane’s Indigenous Family and Child Support Services (IFACSS) and Recognised Entity programs.

Uncle William ‘Billy’ Gorham

Uncle Billy, a proud Koa and Cobble Cobble man, has been a vital part of ATSICHS Brisbane for much of our 50 year history. Over the years, he passionately served various community organisations, advocating for social justice, health, and socio-economic issues. For more than two decades, he dedicated himself to ATSICHS Brisbane, playing a crucial role in its growth and milestones. From relocating during the Clem Jones tunnel construction to settling in the current Woolloongabba location, Uncle Billy’s influence was evident. He continues to champion cultural connections, leading ATSICHS towards a culturally appropriate future as a driving force within the community.

Aunty Glenda Brooks

Aunty Glenda, a cherished member of ATSICHS Brisbane, dedicated herself to serving her people since 1999. For over a decade, she held various roles at the Woolloongabba medical clinic. During this time Aunty Glenda left a profound impact on those she cared for. With a warm smile, she supported patients and linked them to external services for better health outcomes. A true community person, Aunty Glenda’s passion and advocacy knew no bounds. Even after leaving the clinic in 2019, her legacy thrives at Princess Alexandra Hospital, where she continues making a difference in her clients’ lives. We celebrate her kindness, commitment, and inspiration to all within ATSICHS Brisbane.

Uncle Jeffery Broom

After being introduced to ATSICHS co-founders Uncle Steve and Aunty Pamela Mam in 1999, Uncle Jeff quickly became a loyal friend and supported their advocacy work for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Over the decades Uncle Jeff has been one of ATSICHS Brisbane’s greatest supporters. He has attended almost every AGM and has assisted Jimbelunga management with their meetings. During the 17 million dollar rebuild of Jimbelunga Nursing Centre he provided weekly updates on the build to the CEO and Board.

To this day Uncle Jeff is our Jimbelunga resident historian and takes great pride honouring the legacy of Aunty Pam and Uncle Steve.

Aunty Dorothy Buhmann

Aunty Dorothy, a proud Torres Strait Islander from Badu Island, devoted 25+ years to ATSICHS Brisbane. Starting in 1993, she worked tirelessly at various clinics, serving as a health worker, driver, nurse, and cleaner, always supporting her community. Her rapport and experience elevated her standing, making her crucial in connecting the Torres Strait Islander community with the organisation. Aunty Dorothy’s unwavering commitment and warm introduction to ATSICHS provided a trusted safety net. Retiring in 2019, she leaves a lasting legacy, shaping ATSICHS into what it is today. Her impact and respect within the community endure, and her contributions are cherished.

Uncle Mark Moore

Uncle Mark, a proud Gubbi Gubbi man, has a deep and enduring connection with ATSICHS Brisbane. After serving on the Board in the 1980s, he became the Human Resources Manager in 1998 to manage the organisation’s growth. From 1999 to 2008, he served as the longest-serving CEO, making a significant impact. He prioritised delivering culturally safe services, especially for Elders, and played a crucial role in obtaining accreditation for the Jimbelunga Nursing Centre and handling negotiations with Brisbane City Council for premises. He also established the Indigenous Family and Child Support Service and the Community Controlled Child Protection Service through dedication and collaboration with Government agencies.

Dr Aunty Mary Martin

Aunty Mary, a nurse since 1974, played a crucial role at ATSICHS Brisbane. She joined AICHS in 1976 and worked closely with Aunty Pam, providing pop-up clinics to outlying communities. Aunty Mary helped establish the Yulu-Burri-Ba Corporation for Health on North Stradbroke Island in 1984. She remained connected as a devoted board member during the 90s and 2000s. As Chair of QAIHC in 1993, she contributed to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health education. A published author and advocate, Mary received the Order of Australia in 2011 and an Honorary Doctorate from QUT in 2019. Recently, she became the Elder in Residence at IUIH and the UQ Poche Centre for Indigenous Health.

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