Promoting physical activity among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples was one of the keynote topics discussed at a recent BIPAN Think Tank at UQ.
UQ’s School of Human Movement Studies co-hosted the inaugural greater Brisbane Indigenous Physical Activity (BIPAN) event in July, with Queensland Health’s Population Health Branch (QHPHB) and The Queensland Aboriginal and Islander Health Council (QAIHC).
During the event, Think Tank delegates were informed about current research relating to physical activity and its relevance to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, and the existing projects that have had success in engaging Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples within the Brisbane region.
The Think Tank will set the foundation for future work in the area of physical activity promotion by working collaboratively alongside community organisations and other key stakeholders.
It will also enable a systematic and coordinated approach across Brisbane when delivering physical activity or health promotion initiatives.
This network will build on the current strengths of work already established and will focus on enabling collaborative activities and events.
The Think Tank was opened by Uncle Des, Traditional Elder of the “Yuggerabul” peoples, who provided a Welcome to Country as well as insightful knowledge on the topic.
Dr Tony Rossi, from the School of Human Movement Studies, and ex-AFL legend Daryl White addressed the audience, who were also treated to an entertaining performance by students from The Aboriginal Centre for Performing Arts (ACPA).
Developed in 2008, BIPAN is a joint initiative to strengthen communications between various non-government and government agencies who share a common vision to improving Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health and wellbeing.
The organising committee included QAIHC, UQ, QHPHB, Brisbane City Council, Logan City Council and the Department of Communities (Sport and Recreation).
Media: Marketing Co-ordinator Caroline Day, School of Human Movement Studies, (07 3365 6845, caroline.day@uq.edu.au)
