The Inaugural VACCHO Statewide GP Gathering took place in Yorta Yorta country over the weekend delivering a unique blend of cultural and clinical education, peer support and professional development.
The gathering was a special event that provided Member ACCO GPs with the opportunity to come together with their peers – in many cases for the very first time.
VACCHO were thrilled to see GPs and their families having a great time at the Dungula Events Centre – all whilst sharing their valuable knowledge and stories.
One of the highlights of the gathering proved to be the powerful and inspiring words shared by Aunty Faye Lynam and Aunty Nellie Flagg.
Another important moment was the ‘You Can’t Ask That Session’ panelled by Victorian Aboriginal Health Service (VAHS) CEO Michael Graham, Executive Director, Social and Emotional Wellbeing Centre of Excellence Sheree Lowe, and Wemba Wemba Elder Aunty Nellie Flagg.
Highly engaging presentations from Bunurong Health Service’s Dr Hung The Nguyen and Wathaurong Aboriginal Co-operative’s Dr Ed Poliness were extremely well received by attendees.
Wathaurong GP Supervisor Dr Ed Poliness described the event as an amazing experience.
“This is the first VACCHO GP Gathering we have had – it’s the first I’ve ever been to. It has been great getting people from around the state who work in the same areas of General Practice just to exchange ideas and have a great time.”
Victorian Aboriginal Health Service (VAHS) CEO Michael Graham is hoping to see the GP Gathering become an annual event.
“I think the gathering has been fantastic. Many of the doctors here have come up with their families. How fantastic would it be if we see some of these children that are at this gathering return in 20 years’ time as the next generation of ACCO doctors.”
VACCHO would like to sincerely thank those who attended the event – and pays tribute to outgoing GP Workforce Strategy Coordinator Stephanie May for her incredible work and vision bringing the event to life.
