Walgett Aboriginal Medical Service Limited ANNUAL REPORT 2024/2025 2 Funded by: Federal Dept of Social Services – National Indigenous Australians Agency NSW Health – Rural Doctors Network – Western NSW Primary Health Network Celebrating over 39 years of Service since 1986 BOARD OF DIRECTORS REPORT JULY 2024 TO JUNE 2025 Introduction For the WAMS Directors, local cultural and historical events has been the focus of business operations this year. The design and planning of Walgett’s local history as well as WAMS upcoming milestone has ensured both Directors and staff are involved in two very auspicious occasions for our town. An introductory meeting was held with the Hon. Penny Sharpe, MLC. to provide an overview of our proposal for recognition of a Blue Plaque, honoring the events of the Freedom Ride as we all as the design of a pavilion for the memorial Park. Whilst in Sydney, we also attended a meeting with representatives from Sydney City Council, NSWALC and Metro LALC for a planning session for the 60th Anniversary Freedom Ride. In February, Walgett celebrated the 60th Anniversary of the Freedom Ride with an opening ceremony, community march and refreshments. The event saw the attendance of community members from across the region. Five of the original 1965 students and their families and friends, returned to Walgett. The Governor of NSW, The Hon. Margaret Beazley, The Hon. David Harris, MP. and The Hon. Penny Sharpe, MLC. were in attendance Firstly, the Governor addressed the people, giving recognition to the students and their strength and resilience. The Hon. David Harris also acknowledged the students and member of the community whose family’s were the local leaders at this time. Lastly, The Hon Penny Sharpe announced that Walgett was the first recipient, outside of Sydney’s CBD, to receive a Blue Plaque in recognition of the students protest at Walgett. This was a proud moment for local people who recalled their family’s involvement in such a memorable and historical time of Aboriginal history and social change of New South Wales. Several commemorative occasions were held in Sydney as well as other rural towns. WAMS personnel had the privilege of attending the commemorations at Town Hall as well, the commemoration ball and also the marking of the return of the students from their 1965 travels, back to Sydney University. Later in the year, a Blue Plaque was situated at Camdenville Oval, an inner-city suburb. The Plaque identified the location of the first Aboriginal Rugby League knockout held with teams represented from several towns. Walgett community has several members, male and female, who were involved in organising the games and also playing in the first carnival. In March, WAMS held an art competition with the three local schools to design artwork to celebrate WAMS upcoming 40th Anniversary celebrations in 2026. The Winners from each school will have their works showcased on commemorative clothing and other products, as part of the celebrations. Visitors to WAMS A regular visitor to Walgett and to WAMS, is Roy Butler, the Member for Barwon. Roy and his entourage are strong and positive sponsors for our rural towns. He has invited Ministers and official dignitaries to travel long distances by vehicle across his constituency. WAMS appreciate his advocacy for the establishment of the Freedom Ride Memorial Park, the Blue Plaque, and our overall growth during the year.
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTI3ODI1