The 3rd National Indigenous Male Health Convention
Current topicThe 3rd National Indigenous Male Health Convention was held in Cairns, Queensland from 8-9 September 2003. The conference provided the opportunity for Indigenous men to review the cultural and social context of their health and to further develop the integration of traditional ways with contemporary best practice. The Indigenous convention was restricted to male participants and presenters in accordance with cultural customs, traditions and Lore.
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The concept behind the convention emphasised the importance of ‘learning with and from Indigenous Men’. It highlighted that Indigenous men are a part of the mainstream, regardless of where they live, and that there is a need for mainstream health to focus on Indigenous health and not just urban populations.
Key note speakers were Dr Barry Lavallee, Aboriginal Health and Wellness Centre of Winnipeg, Canada and Dr Noel Hayman, Inala Health services, Queensland. Presentations and discussions on Indigenous men’s health issues included: health behaviours; sexual health; alcohol and drug abuse; the impact of colonialism; Indigenous participation in the health workforce; social relationships; and incarceration. Health policy initiatives on the agenda included the National Framework for Improving the Health and Well-being of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Males.
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Conference workshops included:
- Men at work and in the community;
- Male mental wellbeing – options and approaches to effective counselling;
- Men and violence;
- Medical and social aspects of male health – innovations, best practice, concepts;
- ‘Just do it’ – showcasing excellence in men’s health programs.
The Indigenous men’s conference was followed by the 5th National Men’s and Boy’s Health Conference from 10-12 September 2003. September 10 was organised as a bridging day to link the events. Widening the approach to all men – urban, rural and remote – of all backgrounds, both conferences built on themes from earlier conferences which have sought to promote positive aspects of the health and wellbeing of men and boys.
We’d like to thank conference delegates who provided written permission for us to display the photos included in the following gallery:
For further information:
View conference website
View news item (ABC News Online)
View interview transcript (Health Report, Radio National)
View HealthInfoNet men’s health webpage
