Deadly Feet Program expands outreach clinics to Cherbourg community

The Deadly Feet program has extended services beyond the Metro North catchment in 2024, delivering outreach clinics to Cherbourg and Kingaroy in partnership with the Better Together Health Van.

Deadly Feet is a specialist outreach service for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people diagnosed with, or at risk of, foot conditions related to diabetes and/or peripheral vascular disease. The service provides culturally safe care, closer to home.

The outreach clinics were organised in collaboration with Cherbourg Regional Aboriginal and Islander Community Controlled Health Services (CRAICCHS) and Kingaroy, as well as the Darling Downs Health Equity and allied health teams.

Matthew Malone, also known as ‘Gutho,’ is a resident of Cherbourg and has ties to the Gungalou, Jagalingou and Wangan peoples. He was on his way to Cherbourg Hospital, unaware that the Deadly Feet Clinic was taking place that day.

“As I am a diabetic, and I have never had a podiatry check before, it was a good opportunity, so I took it on the spot.”

“I felt supported all around. The health team was friendly and chatty and made you feel comfortable. The specialist and team were also very informative,” Gutho said.

There are plans to expand the program’s outreach opportunities and the organisation of regular screening days for vulnerable and at-risk community members.