Tara Murray
Northern Health has launched an online directory of Aboriginal services in the north.
The Bilang Directory will ensure that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have the right information about necessary services, organisations and networks to effectively manage their health and wellbeing in the future.
Bilang means ‘Straight Talk’ in Woi wurrung, the language spoken by the Wurundjeri-(balluk/Clan), and the traditional owners of the land on which Northern Health is built.
The development of the directory came from a recommendation from the Northern Health Aboriginal Advisory Committee and was created after extensive consultation with the Aboriginal community members.
The directory is funded by the Hume Whittlesea Primary Care Partnership (HWPCP).
Narrun Wilip-giin (Aboriginal support unit) director Emiliano Zucchi said the directory aims to strengthen local knowledge about Aboriginal groups and organisations through building connections and networks.
“We have received very positive feedback; in particular the artwork and how easy Bilang is to navigate,” he said.
“My hope is that Bilang will soon prove to be a platform which strengthens access to services for the Aboriginal community, a virtual meeting point empowering the community to use the excellent services there are out there.”
The website also features artwork by local artist and proud Bangerang, Wiradjuri, Yorta Yorta and Dja Dja Wurrung man Gary Saunders.
Details: bilang.nh.org.au.
Tara Murray
