The Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (VACCHO) congratulates the Lakes Entrance Aboriginal Health Association (LEAHA) on the opening of its new clinic in Lakes Entrance.

The clinic was officially opened last week, bringing Community together to celebrate a milestone more than 20 years in the making.

VACCHO Acting CEO Jim O’Shea said the opening marks a significant moment for the Community, which has strongly advocated for culturally safe, local health services for more than two decades.

“For too long, there had been a lack of culturally appropriate health services in Lakes Entrance. This clinic will finally give Community a place where families are welcomed and where people feel safe, listened to and cared for in aspects of their health and wellbeing,” Mr O’Shea said.

LEAHA became a VACCHO Member in 2011, strengthening its place within the Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health sector.

 

In 2013, LEAHA’s Community Centre was refurbished to meet growing Community needs, and over the past decade, the organisation has grown from a small team of 10 to now more than 30 employees.

In 2020, the LEAHA Board and CEO Paula Morgan, submitted a proposal to the Federal Government for a purpose-built Aboriginal health clinic. Funding was secured, turning a long-held vision, finally into reality.

At the launch on Friday, Ms. Morgan thanked Elders and Community Members who played a crucial role in building the clinic.

” We pay tribute to our three founders; Aunty Phyllis Andy, Aunty Eileen Gordon and Aunty Fay Harrison, together with Uncle Bevan Hayes, Uncle Lenny Hayes, Uncle Tom Perry and Uncle Billy Squires.”

“It is because of their vision that LEAHA has become a place where Culture is respected, people are welcomed, and Community comes first. This clinic symbolises many years of advocacy, evidence, resilience and determination and it reflects the strength of our Community”, Ms Morgan said.