Pacific Integrative Health

23/04/2025

Wow, time has gone quick! Today marks our first anniversary of our book being published 😊

I'm thrilled to announce that "Cultural Connections: Closing the health equity gap for Pacific Islanders living in Australia" is now available in paperback on Amazon!

This book delves into the crucial topic of health equity among Pacific Islanders in Australia, offering insights and strategies to bridge cultural divides and enhance healthcare outcomes.

Cultural Connections is aimed at fostering understanding and improving healthcare delivery for this vibrant community. I invite you to explore this important work and join the conversation on advancing health equity for all.

05/01/2025

In the wake of the devastating earthquakes in Vanuatu, PasifikaAid, a dedicated not-for-profit organization working across the Pacific region, has stepped up to provide critical support to affected communities.

The earthquakes triggered widespread landslides, wiping out village gardens that many families relied on for food and sustenance. In response to this need, PasifikaAid organized and distributed food hampers to families left without access to essential supplies. This effort has been a lifeline for countless individuals, ensuring they receive the nourishment and care they need during this challenging time.

The impact of the landslides and earthquakes continues to be felt, and PasifikaAid's efforts to provide relief and rebuild food security for these communities remain ongoing.

This appeal is still accepting donations, and your contribution can make a real difference in helping families recover and rebuild their lives.

Support PasifikaAid’s vital work today and stand with the resilient communities of Vanuatu. Together, we can create a future where no one is left behind.

👉 PASIFIKAID.org.au

11/12/2024

Yesterday, the Tradelinked Cairns - PNG - Pacific board came together for a Strategic Planning Session for 2025, followed by a fantastic lunch at The Chambers. Our discussions centered on Cairns’ pivotal role as a gateway to the Pacific, highlighting the importance of fostering meaningful connections that drive sustainable regional development. With Cairns strategically positioned to support collaboration between Australia, Papua New Guinea, and Pacific Island nations, there is immense potential to strengthen trade, community resilience, and shared prosperity.

From a public health and international development perspective, these partnerships are vital for addressing key regional challenges such as health equity, food security, and climate resilience. We can contribute to healthier, more empowered Pacific communities by aligning economic growth with sustainable practices. It’s exciting to see the board’s shared vision for 2025, and I look forward to being part of the work that makes these goals a reality.

04/12/2024

Join us today at the Bunnings Family Christmas Markets in Portsmith!

Today, we’re shining a light on our Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) workers' invaluable contributions to our local food systems here in FNQ. Their hard work and dedication ensure that fresh, nutritious produce reaches our tables, strengthening the health and well-being of our communities.

Join us at the Bunnings Family Christmas Markets today, 5 – 7pm.
Pick up some of this beautiful local produce, generously donated by our FNQ farms. Proceeds will go towards funding additional training programs for our PALM workers in 2025, equipping them with skills that benefit our region and their communities back home.

A big thank you to our local farms for their incredible contributions—your generosity makes a difference! 💚

01/11/2024

Disturbing statistics indicate that many Australians are facing significant challenges in accessing affordable healthcare, resulting in a substantial number forgoing essential primary, secondary, and tertiary preventative treatments.



https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-10-28/healthcare-costs-bulk-billing-medicare-polling-yougov-dental/104518336 #:~:text=In%20short%3A,backbenchers%20agitate%20for%20the%20change.

15/10/2024

The Papua New Guinea Government’s embrace of e-health solutions is a transformative step in tackling pressing healthcare challenges, including tuberculosis, cervical and breast cancer, and immunization in remote regions.

The government is significantly improving access to vital health services by incorporating e-health solutions and integrating cutting-edge technologies like drone delivery systems.

Celebrating these advancements, we recognize the potential for a healthier future, where all communities can benefit from timely and effective healthcare interventions.

https://www.pngbusinessnews.com/articles/2024/10/sir-temu-advocates-for-e-health-innovative-technologies

Abau District Member of Parliament, Sir Puka Temu, has urged the Papua New Guinea (PNG) government to adopt e-health solutions to overcome the healthcare challenges posed by the country's remote geography. Speaking at the launch of the pilot Waste-Zone Project at Kupiano Health Centre, Central Provi...

09/10/2024

As we approach the upcoming elections at the end of the month, the legalization of cannabis has emerged as a prominent topic of discussion. Central to this dialogue is the need to prioritize the protection of our young people, ensuring they are safeguarded from potential risks.



https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/case-against-legalization-recreational-cannabis-protecting-booy-918zc

27/09/2024

15/09/2024

Today, we celebrate Papua New Guinea’s 49th Independence Day and recognize the invaluable contributions of our PNG community to the landscape of Cairns and Far North Queensland.

The rich cultural heritage, vibrant traditions, and active engagement have enriched our region. From the colorful cultural festivals to the dynamic arts and community initiatives, PNG’s presence adds a unique and cherished dimension to our local community.

Congratulations, Papua New Guinea, on 49 years of independence!

11/09/2024

Upcoming Webinar: Violence Against Pets in the Context of Intimate Partner Violence 📢

Hosted by the Australian Institute of Family Studies, this important webinar will delve into the intersection of violence against pets and intimate partner violence (IPV).

Key points:
• Nearly 70% of Australian households have pets.
• While IPV’s impact on women and children is well-known, the connection between IPV and violence against family animals is less recognized.
• Evidence suggests that violence against pets can indicate severe and frequent IPV, with perpetrators using pets to manipulate or control their partners.

9 October 2024, 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm (AEST)



https://aifs.gov.au/webinars/violence-against-pets-context-intimate-partner-violence-supporting-victim-survivors

21/08/2024

Participating in the 11th Diversity and Inclusion Forum was a remarkable opportunity to help reduce discrimination and improve health outcomes for Queensland’s multicultural populations. Engaging with diverse voices and collaborative efforts underscored our commitment to fostering a more inclusive and equitable society.

21/07/2024

I had the privilege to participate in the PALM Wellness Weekend program last week, dedicated to the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility Scheme workers in Far North Queensland. This impactful initiative was organized in collaboration with NIB Insurance, True Relationships and Reproductive Health, Pacific Islands Council Queensland, Tablelands Sexual Assault Services, Mareeba Council, Mareeba Community Centre, and Queensland Police.

The program provided invaluable support and resources tailored to enhance the well-being of our Pacific Islander workforce. It was heartening to witness the positive impact of the collective efforts in promoting health and community integration.