Staff attend national nursing conference

ATSICHS Brisbane nursing staff, alongside their national colleagues, recently attended a national nurses and midwives conference. The Congress of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Nurses and Midwives (CATSINaM) conference was held in Cairns from 12-13 April.

​​​​​​​Northgate nurse Elissa and also clinic nurse reliever Brooke attended the event highlighting nursing in community and birthing on country. This also covered current issues affecting the service delivery of Indigenous health.

Elissa attended birthing on country sessions and became inspired by hearing from her peers. She also learned about culturally safe spaces for birthing and how to better plan for this in the future.

“It was interesting to hear about the changes happening and those that need to happen in health care around institutional racism and rural and remote nursing,” she said.

“I loved hearing about the new things happening in the community and statewide in terms of nursing and midwifery. It was also valuable to learn all about this and apply to my job at ATSICHS.”

Brooke agreed and also shared the sentiment. Additionally she said the conference was an incredible chance to hear stories from many empowering Indigenous nurses and midwives.

“It was great to attend CATSINaM which promotes equality, justice and also recognition for our people in the healthcare system.

“I am also definitely more determined and inspired to help work towards a better system. I’m also determined to create a space where mob are safe, heard, respected and part of a community,” Brooke said.

Awards

One of the highlights was the announcement of the awards. Kady, one of our hardworking midwives at our Jajumbora Midwifery Hub received the Student of the Year award. We are incredibly proud of her!

Special mention also went to Aunty Pamela Mam, who received the inaugural “On Who’s Shoulders We Stand” award. She received the award in honour of her legacy and achievements. ATSICHS Brisbane’s CEO Jody Currie accepted the award on behalf of her family.