Sherry Holzaphel, ED, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health
Adj. Prof. Jane Hancock, Acting Chief Executive
Today on Mabo Day we commemorate and celebrate Mer Island man the late Eddie Koiki Mabo whose actions played a significant role in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and Australian history, paving the way for future generations.
Eddie challenged the Australian legal system through the High Court which led to victorious overruling of the legal fiction of terra nullius (land belonging to no-one), recognising Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ connection and rights to land and country as Traditional Owners.
These actions are still very real and raw for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and community with the High Court overruling taking place in 1992, only then recognising that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have rights to the land that they have lived on for over 65,000 years, as the first peoples of this country.
“The land holds stories, it holds the history. It holds the pain; it holds the joy. It holds the memories on an entire people.” – Eddie Koiki Mabo
Mabo Day is an opportunity to acknowledge the resilience of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and the ongoing fight for Reconciliation.
As an organisation, let’s join together in celebration of rich cultures, traditions, and contributions to our shared heritage. And let us strive to build a future health care system guided by the principles of equality, Reconciliation, and mutual respect.
Here is a short film we would like to share with you looking back at the landmark Mabo Decision and Eddie Koiki Mabo.
We encourage all staff to participate in any Mabo Day activities and events across Metro North Health facilities to join in celebration and knowledge sharing with our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander colleagues.
Warm regards,
Jane and Sherry.