AN Aboriginal community-led stroke awareness film developed in partnership with Gomeroi-Gamilaroi communities will be officially launched in Moree on August 4.

By the Mob for the Mob, will be held at the Pius X Aboriginal Corporation from 11am and is being co-ordinated by the Hunter New England Local Health District and Moree Ambulance staff.

The project has been developed as a culturally grounded health initiative aimed at improving stroke awareness and education within Aboriginal communities.

It was created through collaboration between Elders, community members, clinicians, paramedics and cultural advisers, ensuring the film reflects local voices, experiences and cultural knowledge.

Moree paramedic Kelly Girard, who is co-ordinating By the Mob for the Mob with colleague Nadia Hulsbos, said the initiative demonstrates a shared commitment to improving health outcomes through storytelling, community engagement and cultural strength.

Moree ambos Guy Bayley, Jessica Kregor Kelly Girard, Cori Lowerson and Nadia Hulsbos (seated). Nadi and Kelly are facilitating By the Mob for the Mob, which will be held at the Pius X Aboriginal Corporation on August 4.

“It has been a real privilege to be a part of this short film, working side-by-side with members from surrounding communities and agencies  throughout the New England area,” Kelly said.

“The important message to get across to everyone is, please call 000 as soon as they notice a change in their loved ones.

“We want to reassure everyone NSW Ambulance is here for you. As soon as triple-0 is called, help is on the way. Time is the most important factor in getting you or a loved one to the correct facility, to access the appropriate treatment required for recovery,” she said.

The film has been designed to deliver important stroke awareness messages in a way that is meaningful and relevant to Aboriginal people.

A key focus of the launch will be promoting the FAST stroke awareness message, which encourages people to recognise the signs of stroke and act quickly.

FAST stands for Face, Arm, Speech and Time, and is widely used across Australia to help people identify stroke symptoms and seek urgent medical assistance.

The event will begin with a smoking ceremony and Welcome to Country, acknowledging the importance of culture and community in the project.

Attendees will have the opportunity to view the Aboriginal community-led stroke film and learn more about the initiative and its development.

A light lunch and catering will be provided, while representatives from NSW Ambulance will also participate in community engagement activities during the event.

The launch is expected to bring together community members, health professionals and local organisations to support Aboriginal leadership in health education and promote greater awareness of stroke prevention and response.

Hunter New England Local Health District extends an invitation to community members to attend the launch and support the initiative, which aims to strengthen health knowledge through culturally appropriate education and communication.

“We are looking forward to presenting our community with the short film and we are hoping that Moree represents us at Pius X Medical Centre with a show of support,” Kelly said.

“I would personally like to thank S&L Girard Grader Hire, The Stroke Foundation, New England Health and Qantas for being major sponsors, and also Pius X Medical Centre and Byamee Proclaimed Place for helping bring this important message to the community.”

Further information about the event can be obtained from Kelly Girard or Nadia Hulsbos at Hunter New England Local Health District.

By the Mob for the Mob

When: Tuesday, August 4, 2026

Where: Pius X Aboriginal Corporation, Moree

Time: From 11am

Information

Kelly Girard: [email protected] or 0449 180273

Nadia Hulsbos: [email protected] or 0431 716251