Most people dread medical check-ups, and as we get older, that feeling often grows stronger. Yet each Thursday, at Anglicare’s Ashmont Community Resources Centre (ACRC), a group of 15-20 local seniors willingly gather to have their hear rate, blood sugar and other health checks taken.
The Aunty Jeans program, sponsored by NSW Health, supports the health and wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. In Wagga Wagga, the program is delivered through a partnership between Murrumbidgee Local Health District (MLHD), Riverina Medical & Dental Aboriginal Corporation, and Anglicare.
Each week, Shorty from MLHD collects those who cannot drive and brings them to the centre. On arrival, participants enjoy a healthy morning tea and time for a yarn. Meanwhile, Shorty meets one-on-one with each individual to carry out their health assessments.
Afterwards, the group might take part in gentle exercise, hear from a visiting health provider, or enjoy another activity organised by the team. In May, for example, the Heart Foundation visited to share practical tips for improving heart health.
Before heading home, participants spend more time socialising over a freshly prepared, healthy lunch.
Many members of the Aunty Jeans group have been coming to the centre for years—for community lunches, access to services, and for celebrations such as NAIDOC Week. Over time, this has developed strong, trusted relationships that span generations.
“I used to take mum along and support her with Aunty Jeans,” says participant Aunty Susan Hickey. “Then when it was my turn, I came and joined up too. It’s very important to socialise and meet other Aboriginal people. We catch up and see how everyone is going.”
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people continue to experience lower life expectancy, higher rates of disease, and poorer social and emotional outcomes than non-indigenous Australians. This is why it is so important to create welcoming, culturally safe access to health services and spaces for connection.
Ninety-one-year-old Aunty Joyce Hampton thinks the program is beneficial and encourages more to get involved. “There are a lot of Aboriginal people in Ashmont”, she says. “They should attend. It’s good to keep in check with your health. They should come here and get more information.”
The success of the program is largely due to Shorty and the staff at the ACRC, who have spent years building trust within the local community. From early learning and parenting programs to emergency relief, community lunches and initiatives like Aunty Jeans, the centre has become a safe and inclusive space for all.
Visit our Ashmont Community Resource Centre page to learn more or donate today to support Anglicare and the work we do.
