GLAMS open

GLAMS is a branch of the Coonamble Aboriginal Medical Service, and the opening of Gilgandra’s new centre has been a long time coming, according to CEO Phil Naden.

“For me it’s been a long time waiting for us to establish this Aboriginal medical service in Gilgandra, and obviously that comes through a lot of consultation,” said Mr Naden.

“The outcome is having GLAMS here now, working in partnership not only with the current health providers in Gilgandra, but also the local health district to provide a culturally appropriate service where people feel that can come to. It’s a space where you can have those cultural yarns, and deal with people who are specifically trained around what it is they’re here for.”

Part of Station Street where GLAMS stands, was closed for a few hours in the morning while official proceedings took place. Beginning with a Welcome to Country by Uncle Ralph Naden; CEO of Bila Muuji Aboriginal Corporation Health Service, Carl Grant, spoke from a regional perspective on GLAMS importance.

Mr Naden said that “as well as Carl, Brendan Cutmore who is the executive director of Aboriginal health with the NSW health district, got up and also talked about his perspective on partnerships with NSW health, the local health districts, and the Aboriginal community-controlled sector”.

Member for Parkes Mark Coulton, acknowledged the work that GLAMS has done over the past few months, and confirmed the grant that was announced.

“With Mr Coulton officially opening the building for us, it was a really good day,” said Mr Naden.

The opening is the talk of the town, with community members buzzing about the new prospects GLAMS offers.

“The feedback is so positive. “It is still continuing up until today and people are chomping at the bit to want to know the next steps of when the opening time is,” said Mr Naden.

Mr Naden explained that not only locals and health service representatives attended the opening, but people all across the region.

“We had people from AH and MRC [Aboriginal Health and Medical Research Council], we had people as far as Wagga Wagga, from Walgett to Brewarrina, to Broken Hill here on the day,” said Mr Naden.

“I think it demonstrated our commitment to Aboriginal health in the region.”

Patients will be welcomed to the service in the coming month.