On the Move

1976, 30 Minutes

In the mid-1970s an innovative preventative health program was set up in Northern Queensland to screen Aboriginal children ranging from newborns to aged 15 in their own homes. The Health department was responding to the low patronage of local hospitals by Aboriginal families and resolved to bring healthcare into the community.

A team of Aboriginal and non-indigenous nurses headed by Sister Audrey Tomlinson, travelled around the Townsville district and schools and to the Aboriginal reserve on Palm Island. They set up their equipment outside on grassy, communal areas or in local halls, to screen for childhood diseases such as malnutrition, ear and eye problems and heart defects, in a relaxed, unhurried way. They also provided ongoing care and health education to families in need, which often resulted in an improvement to the children's health.

Made in cooperation with the Health Department of Queensland for the Department of Aboriginal Affairs. © 2011 National Film and Sound Archive of Australia.