Wednesday, April 23, 2025

Issue:

Mackay and Whitsunday Life

Let's Talk Health At Bowen Health Connection

The Bowen Health Connection event united local community members and health service providers for a day devoted to health and wellbeing across the entire spectrum of life, from babies to the elderly.

Brought to life through the hard work and dedication of Stephanie Cora, executive officer of the Bowen Community Centre, and Josephenie Ferguson, community liaison officer with the Together Strong, Connected Care program.

“The intention of the event was to not just focus on women's health but health in general for people of all age groups, whether you're a parent with a new-born or a senior seeking support," said Ms Cora.

The overarching purpose of Bowen Health Connection was to make local health services more visible and approachable, giving residents the opportunity to access programs which support their health and ultimately improve their quality of life.

Booths and displays were erected for a range of health services, with providers on deck to answer questions and supply attendees with resources.

“Our goal was to give locals a clearer picture of the health services available to them here in the community,” said Ms Ferguson.

The event was made possible through the generous funding from Give Queensland and Q call, whose support allowed the organisers to breathe life into the idea. Both Ms Cora and Ms Ferguson expressed their heartfelt gratitude for the funding and the strong community turnout.

By shifting the focus on inclusion, awareness and access, The Bowen Health Connection succeeded in ensuring essential health information was delivered to the individuals most in need.

“We hope this becomes a regular event,” said Ms Ferguson. “Because healthy communities start with connection.”

Stephanie Cox and Bowen Health Connection Organisers. Photo Supplied
Josephine Ferguson and Stephanie Cox
Paige Cox and Raeni Ashton of Selectability
Antoinette du Toit and Carol Norris, Senior Coordinator and CEO of Greater Whitsunday Communities
Josephine Ferguson Together Strong Connected Care
Anna Cubis, Linette Leville, Isla Caskie, Penny King of NWRH
Joanne Mulcahy of TRACC
Kaylee Ahern of Headspace and Megan Waite of Madec
Amanda Hunter of Wellways
Tiarna Ezzy of Footprints Community
Ariko Idagi of Girudala Family Support
Michelle Bates and Alicia Gubb of Frail Age Service
Stella Life Care, Stella Community

Photo Credit: Munir Kilic

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