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Umoona Tjutagku Health Service

ANNUAL REPORT 2025/2026

Caring for Country, Community & Culture

Our Vision

Innovative, responsive, and culturally appropriate health services are accessible to Aboriginal people living in the Coober Pedy and surrounding region

Our Values

Integrity, Commitment and Ethics

Acknowledgement of Country

Umoona Tjutagku Health Service acknowledges the Antikarinya People as the custodians of the lands of the Coober Pedy Area and pay respect to Elders both past and present. Umoona Tjutagku Health Service also acknowledges and respects the Antikarinya people’s cultural, spiritual, physical and emotional connection with their land, and community.

provide a holistic health care service that Our Mission To achieves positive health outcomes through primary health care intervention as well as safer communities through prevention and education

Contents 4

Chairperson’s Report

CEO’s Report

14 Administration Report 17 Clinic Report 34 Practice Manager’s Report 37 Healthy for Life Report 42 Drug and Alcohol Services Report 56 AOD Report 62 Social and Emotional Wellbeing Report 72 National Ice Action Strategy (NIAS) Report 77 Mental Health Support Report 81 Organisational Chart 84 UTHSAC Staff Academic Qualifications

Chairperson’s Report I also wish to inform our members that while we were able to successfully complete the staff new housing project the previous year, we have not been able to progress much with the New Clinic Building project in Hutchinson Street, due to lack of funds. But I am pleased to say that the Board, CEO and Senior Management are working with the relevant authorities to obtain extra funding required to complete this project, soon. This delay was due to the rising costs in the construction industry over the past few years and which has affected the industry as a whole.

Raelene Dodd, Chairperson It is my pleasure to present you the Directors Report and Audited Financial Statements of Umoona Tjutagku Health Service Aboriginal Corporation (UTHSAC) for 2025/2026. I am pleased to inform you that the past year saw the organisation achieve its highest revenue and service delivery in the Community, benefitting our mob in Coober Pedy, as well as those travelling from other Communities to and through Coober Pedy. The extra services provided include Clinical services such as GP and Specialist appointments as well as services provided at our Drug and Alcohol Day Centre and the Healthy for Life Centre. New services offered by our Health Service above the standard services and programs last year include Cancer Support services, Elders Care services, Lung Screening programs and also Diphtheria management programs. These services have helped to keep our community and mob safe and healthy.

I am also pleased to inform you that the organisation has continued in its quest for Quality, Innovation and Performance by extending its AGPAL and QIC Accreditations. This has helped it to maintain high standards of patient care as well as transparency and independence in relation to its Finance and Governance processes. The UTHSAC Board met on a regular basis to understand and guide the organisation’s strategic direction, and its shortterm and long-term goals. All Board Members were provided with the organisation’s financials and other important information on a regular basis, which helped us to understand how the organisation was performing at any given time. The External Accountants of the organisation also visited the organisation a few times during the past year to review the Finance and Governance processes of the organisation and also to conduct the Interim Audit and the main Financial Audit. Feedback and suggestions received were implemented wherever possible, and the organisation is

open to a continuous improvement process throughout its operations. They also provided the Board with financial updates on a regular basis which contributed towards the Board making informed decisions based on independent advice. The Board, CEO and Secretary were provided Governance Training in the past year. As done each year, Board Members were offered the opportunity to upskill themselves in Board, Governance and Financial matters if required. The organisation strives to ensure that the Board, which gives Strategic Direction to the organisation, has the necessary skills and knowledge to do so. A big thank you, to our patient and resilient Community and Members of the Corporation, most of you, who understand and support the organisation in every possible way, most of the time. While we strive to achieve the best for you, sometimes we may not be able to provide you certain services requested by you, and please note that this is due to no reason of ours, but due to the fact that we have to work within the funding received as well as due to the guidelines set by our funders. I also wish to inform all our stakeholders that the Board of Directors of UTHS have not received any monetary or non-monetary benefits in the capacity of being Board Members of the Corporation. I take this opportunity to thank the Board, Secretary, CEO and all staff at UTHSAC for the great work they continue to do to improve the health and wellbeing of the Aboriginal People in Coober Pedy and surrounding Region. Raelene Dodd, Chairperson

Board of Directors

Raelene Dodd, Chairperson Umoona Tjutagku Health Service

Patrick Larkins, Director Umoona Tjutagku Health Service

Josie Warrior, Director Umoona Tjutagku Health Service

Priscilla Larkins, Chief Executive Officer Umoona Tjutagku Health Service

Michael Liptsey, Director Umoona Tjutagku Health Service

Dilshan Perera, Secretary Umoona Tjutagku Health Service

CEO’s Report

Executive Summary The 2025–2026 financial year has been a period of strong growth, improved performance and continued resilience for Umoona Tjutagku Health Service. As an Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation, we have remained focused on delivering culturally safe, holistic healthcare while strengthening community trust and engagement. Key achievements this year include a significant increase in client engagement across all services, with total episodes of care reaching 46,138, representing a 15.8% increase compared to the previous financial year. Preventative health activities also expanded substantially, with health assessments increasing by 6.8%, alongside greater participation in chronic disease management, cancer screening, and immunisation programs. Our workforce has strengthened through the successful recruitment of 11 new staff across clinical and program areas, contributing to a more stable and multidisciplinary team. Investment in workforce development and Aboriginal employment pathways continues to support long-term sustainability and culturally informed care.

Priscilla Larkins, Chief Executive Officer

Program expansion has been a major outcome, with growth across Women’s Health, Men’s Health, Cancer Programs, Chronic Disease Management and Social and Emotional Wellbeing services. New funding secured during the year has enabled the introduction and strengthening of programs in Elder Care, Rheumatic Heart Disease ,

Environmental Health, and Liver Disease. Infrastructure improvements have also supported service delivery, including the completion of staff accommodation, enhancing our ability to recruit and retain health professionals in Coober Pedy. Planning for a new purposebuilt health facility continues, positioning the organisation for future growth. Despite these achievements, significant challenges remain. Demand for Social and Emotional Wellbeing services continues to exceed available resources, with ongoing impacts from suicide, trauma, and intergenerational disadvantage. Workforce shortages, housing constraints, food insecurity, and limited access to culturally appropriate Mental Health Services continue to affect health outcomes across the community. These challenges highlight the ongoing need for sustained investment, particularly in locally delivered, culturally safe mental health services and broader social determinants of health. Overall, the organisation has demonstrated excellent performance, improved service reach, and increased community confidence. Umoona Tjutagku Health Service remains well positioned to build on this momentum, strengthen partnerships, and continue delivering high-quality care that supports healthier futures for our community.

Building a Strong Workforce Over the past year we have successfully recruited into a number of key positions across the organisation, significantly strengthening our workforce and improving service delivery. Recruiting skilled professionals to remote communities continues to be challenging; however, we are pleased to report that we now have a stable and committed multidisciplinary team working together to meet the health needs of our community. We continue to invest heavily in workforce development through ongoing education, mentoring, professional development, and leadership opportunities. Building the Aboriginal health workforce remains one of our highest priorities, and we remain committed to encouraging more local Aboriginal people to pursue careers in health. Our vision is to create long-term employment pathways that allow local people to care for local people while strengthening cultural knowledge within our workforce. Although Registered Training Organisation (RTO) changes through AHCSA have continued to create delays for Aboriginal Health Worker training, we are still committed to supporting our trainees throughout their journey. We continue to advocate for greater consistency in training delivery to ensure our future workforce receives the education and practical experience necessary to safely support our community.

Growing Our Own Workforce: Celebrating Staff Development and Achievement

Laura and Aiden: Registered Nursing Journey Special congratulations go to Laura and Aiden, who are now in the final stages of completing their Registered Nurse qualifications. Over the past 12 months, both Laura and Aiden have demonstrated an outstanding commitment to their nursing traineeships. Their journey has involved regularly travelling away from home to undertake training, study and clinical placements. They have completed several placements at hospitals in and around Melbourne, giving them the opportunity to experience different clinical environments, work alongside experienced health professionals and further develop their practical nursing skills.

Building Our Aboriginal Health Workforce We are equally proud to congratulate Jonte, Kym and Taylor, who have successfully completed their Certificate III Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Primary Health Care traineeships through AHCSA. This is a significant achievement for each of them and for our organisation. Aboriginal Health Workers play an essential role within Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services. They provide an important connection between clients, families, community and the broader health system, while helping to ensure healthcare is delivered in a culturally safe and appropriate way.

Laura was also able to undertake a four-week placement at Coober Pedy Hospital, providing her with valuable experience in her own local community. This opportunity allowed her to strengthen her clinical skills while gaining further experience in the unique environment of remote healthcare. We look forward to seeing Laura and Aiden successfully complete their nursing qualifications and move into the next exciting stage of their careers. Most importantly, we look forward to seeing them bring their knowledge, qualifications and clinical skills back to our local community.

Staff development continues to be an important priority for our organisation, and we are extremely proud to recognise the dedication and achievements of our staff who have undertaken further education and training. Investing in our people means investing in the future health and wellbeing of our community. Building the skills and qualifications of our local workforce strengthens our organisation, improves continuity of care and provides our community with access to skilled health professionals who understand our people and the unique challenges of providing healthcare in a remote setting.

Supporting local people to gain qualifications in Aboriginal health contributes to building a stronger, skilled and sustainable local workforce.

We look forward to supporting Britney, Christiana and Cecil throughout their training and celebrating their achievements as they progress.

We also acknowledge AHCSA for its ongoing contribution to training and developing the Aboriginal health workforce.

providing them with the training, mentoring, practical experience and encouragement they need to succeed. When our staff gain qualifications, the benefits extend far beyond the individual.

Advancing to Health Practitioner Roles

Welcoming Our New Certificate III Trainees

Congratulations also go to Aiden and Josie, who have successfully completed their Aboriginal Health Practitioner training.

Their knowledge stays within our organisation and our community. Our clients benefit from greater continuity of care, stronger cultural understanding and familiar health professionals who understand the realities of living in a remote community.

It is also exciting to see the next group of staff beginning their professional development journey. This year, Britney, Christiana and Cecil commenced their Certificate III Aboriginal Health Worker traineeships, and we are pleased to report that they are progressing well. Starting a traineeship is an important commitment. It involves balancing study, work place learning, practical experience and everyday responsibilities. We are proud of the enthusiasm and commitment Britney, Christiana and Cecil have demonstrated since beginning their training. Having one group successfully complete their qualifications while another group begins demonstrates that workforce development is becoming an ongoing pathway within our organisation. We want our young people and community members to see that there are genuine career opportunities available within Aboriginal health—from entering the workforce as a trainee through to becoming qualified Aboriginal Health Workers, Aboriginal Health Practitioners, nurses and other health professionals.

This is another excellent professional achievement and represents an important increase in the clinical capability of our organisation. Having qualified Aboriginal Health Practitioners within our service strengthens our capacity to provide culturally safe clinical care, health assessments, chronic disease management, health education, prevention and early intervention. These qualifications also demonstrate that there is a pathway for Aboriginal Health Workers to continue developing their clinical skills and advancing professionally.

Growing Our Own: A Long-Term Investment Remote communities continue to experience challenges in attracting and retaining qualified health professionals. While recruitment remains important, we strongly believe that one of the most sustainable solutions is to grow our own workforce. That means identifying people within our community who have the passion and potential to work in health and then

We are incredibly proud of Laura, Aiden, Jonte, Kym, Taihlor and Josie for reaching significant milestones in their professional development, and we are equally excited to see Britney, Christiana and Cecil beginning their own journey. Balancing employment, study, placements, travel, family and community responsibilities is not always easy. Their commitment deserves to be recognised and celebrated. As an organisation, we will continue to encourage education, traineeships and professional development because developing our people is one of the most important investments we can make. When we invest in our staff, we strengthen our organisation. When we grow our local workforce, we strengthen our community.

Closing the Gap

Closing the Gap continues to guide much of our work. Throughout 2025–2026 we have continued encouraging our community to take part in preventative health programs,

annual health assessments, chronic disease management, cancer screening, immunisation programs, and social and emotional wellbeing services. While we have made significant progress, we know there is still much work ahead. Remote communities continue to face considerable barriers that directly impact health outcomes, particularly in relation to: • Access to culturally appropriate mental health services • Suicide prevention and crisis support • Safe and affordable housing • Food security and access to affordable fresh fruit and vegetables • Workforce shortages across regional and remote Australia. These social determinants continue to influence the health of our community, and meaningful progress will require coordinated investment across all levels of government.

Primary Health Care Primary Health Care is still the foundation of our organisation and continues to deliver high-quality, culturally safe healthcare to our community.

During the 2025–2026 financial year, our Primary Health Care team significantly expanded its service delivery through: • General Practitioner services • Registered Nursing services • Aboriginal Health Practitioner support • Chronic Disease Management • Women’s Health • Men’s Health • Child and Maternal Health • Vaccination Programs • Preventative Health Assessments • Care Planning and Health Checks • Outreach Clinics • Health Promotion and Education. Our integrated approach ensures clients receive coordinated care that supports both their physical and emotional wellbeing. We have also seen improved collaboration between clinical services, allied health professionals, and community programs, resulting in better continuity of care and improved health outcomes.

Social and Emotional Wellbeing One of our greatest priorities continues to be Social and Emotional Wellbeing. Sadly, our community continues to experience the devastating impacts of suicide, grief, trauma, and intergenerational disadvantage. Every life lost has a profound effect on families, friends, and the wider community. Despite increasing demand, funding for remote mental health services continues to fall well below community need. Our team continues to advocate strongly for greater investment into locally based mental health services delivered by trusted Aboriginal organisations.

investment into permanent, community-based services is essential if we are serious about reducing suicide and improving wellbeing across remote Aboriginal communities.

Program Growth This year has seen significant expansion across many of our programs. Women’s Health has continued to grow through increased screening activities, education sessions and stronger engagement with breast, bowel and cervical screening initiatives. Men’s Health programs have flourished through the Men’s Gym Program, Men’s PITSTOP, cultural activities, music programs and health education initiatives, creating safe environments where men feel comfortable discussing their health. Our Cancer Program has expanded community awareness through education campaigns, bowel screening distribution, lung cancer awareness, and strong participation during Breast Screen visits. Chronic Disease Management continues to improve through coordinated care planning and stronger multidisciplinary support. Our Integrated Team Care Program has strengthened referrals and improved coordination between hospital and primary healthcare services. Our Nangkari Program continues to provide invaluable traditional healing services, supporting clients through culturally appropriate healing practices that complement clinical care. New funding secured throughout the year has enabled us to strengthen services across: • Elder Care • Cancer Support • Rheumatic Heart Disease • Environmental Health • Liver Disease Programs • Health Promotion Initiatives. These investments allow us to continue building sustainable programs that respond directly to community priorities.

The evidence is clear; community members are more likely to engage with culturally safe services delivered by people they know and trust. Mental health support cannot simply be delivered through fly-in, fly-out models. Sustainable

Governance and Organisational Excellence Throughout the year we have continued strengthening our governance, quality improvement systems, and clinical governance frameworks. Significant work has been undertaken to improve: • Clinical Governance • Risk Management • Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) • Workforce Development • Accreditation Readiness • Cultural Safety Frameworks • Digital Health Systems • Medical Record Improvements • Telehealth Accessibility. These improvements ensure our organisation continues to deliver services that meet national standards while remaining culturally responsive to community expectations.

• Allied Health Providers • Local Schools • Community Organisations • Government Agencies. These partnerships continue to strengthen referral pathways, improve service coordination, and ensure our clients receive the best possible care.

Infrastructure and Future Growth We continue making considerable progress in strengthening our infrastructure. Our accommodation project for nursing staff has now been completed, with land secured on Flinders Street and transportable accommodation fully operational. This investment has significantly improved our ability to recruit and retain health professionals in Coober Pedy. Planning also continues for our new health service building. While delays to the tender process have been frustrating, we remain optimistic that construction will commence soon. This facility will provide a modern, purpose-built environment capable of supporting the growing needs of our community for many years to come.

Acknowledgements I would like to sincerely thank our Board of Directors for their leadership, guidance, and ongoing commitment to good governance. To our Elders, thank you for your wisdom, cultural leadership, and continued support. To every member of our staff, thank you for your professionalism, compassion, and unwavering dedication. Every achievement throughout this year reflects your commitment to improving the lives of our community. I also acknowledge our funding partners, government agencies and community organisations who continue to work alongside us in delivering quality healthcare. Most importantly, I thank our community for placing their trust in Umoona Tjutagku Health Service. It is a privilege to walk alongside you and continue building a healthier future together.

Looking Forward The year ahead presents exciting opportunities. Our priorities for 2026–2027 include: • • • • • • • • • • •

Community Partnerships Strong partnerships remain central to our success. Throughout the year we have continued working collaboratively with: • Aboriginal Health Council of South Australia (AHCSA) • NACCHO • Country SA PHN • Royal Adelaide Hospital • Eyre and Far North Local Health Network

Expanding Social and Emotional Wellbeing services Expanding Mental Health services Strengthening suicide prevention initiatives Developing comprehensive Elder Care programs Expanding youth health and leadership programs Improving access to specialist and allied health services Growing our Aboriginal workforce Strengthening outreach services across the region Continuing infrastructure development Increasing preventative health activities and community engagement Building stronger partnerships that improve health outcomes across remote South Australia.

While challenges remain, I am confident that our organisation is well positioned for the future. Together, we will continue delivering high-quality, culturally safe healthcare that empowers our people, strengthens families, and creates healthier futures for generations to come. Thank you for your continued trust, support, and commitment to our shared vision. Priscilla Larkins, Chief Executive Officer

Work Health and Safety at Umoona Tjutagku Health Service: A commitment to Excellence At Umoona Tjutagku Health Service (UTHS), ensuring the health and safety of both staff and clients is a core priority. As a leading healthcare provider serving the Coober Pedy community, UTHS is committed to maintaining a safe, culturally respectful working environment while delivering high quality care. This commitment is embedded into every aspect of operations through regular risk assessments, proactive hazard management, seasonal preparedness, and continuous staff education. By integrating safety into long term planning, UTHS ensures that its workplace health and safety (WHS) approach is not just a compliance requirement but a cornerstone of organisational culture.

The Importance of Work Health and Safety Work health and safety is essential in healthcare, where staff may be exposed to a variety of risks and clients are often in vulnerable conditions. Effective WHS practices not only protect employees from occupational hazards but also ensure clients receive safe and reliable care. At UTHS, this means taking a comprehensive approach that combines education, risk management, and open communication. The organisation recognises that safety extends beyond compliance—it is about fostering an environment where people feel supported, hazards are addressed quickly, and safety improvements are part of everyday practice.

Health and Safety Culture Promoting a Safety Culture

UTHS fosters a strong safety culture by integrating WHS principles into daily work practices. This includes clear expectations for safe behaviour, active participation in safety initiatives, and leadership that models best practice. Staff are encouraged to contribute to safety discussions, identify hazards, and suggest improvements. Safety responsibilities are embedded into job descriptions, and achievements in safety are recognised to reinforce a positive safety mindset across the organisation.

Client Safety Client safety is equally important. UTHS ensures that service delivery environments meet high safety standards, with regular inspections to identify and address potential hazards. Staff follow established safety protocols when providing care, and any safety concerns are addressed promptly to protect the wellbeing of all clients.

Training and Education Ongoing Training Programs

Training and education form the backbone of WHS at UTHS. Staff participate in ongoing training covering emergency response, manual handling, infection control, and safe equipment use. Refresher training is delivered quarterly or when significant regulatory changes occur, ensuring staff skills and knowledge remain current.

Updating Procedures Safety procedures are regularly reviewed and updated to reflect best practice and legislative requirements. Updated guidelines are communicated promptly, and staff are briefed to ensure they are aware of changes and can adapt their work accordingly.

Regular Meetings and Communication Scheduled WHS Meetings

UTHS holds regular WHS meetings—monthly or quarterly depending on operational needs—to review incidents, discuss improvements, and track corrective actions. These meetings bring together representatives from all areas, including WHS officers, health professionals, and administrative staff, ensuring that a wide range of perspectives inform safety planning.

Open Communication Channels

Open communication is central to UTHS’s WHS strategy. Staff are encouraged to raise concerns without fear of reprisal, either directly or via anonymous reporting systems. This open dialogue allows hazards to be addressed quickly and collaboratively, reinforcing a shared responsibility for workplace safety.

Comprehensive Audits and Risk Assessments Routine Safety Audits Routine safety audits are carried out to evaluate the effectiveness of WHS practices. These reviews examine workplace conditions, equipment maintenance, emergency preparedness, and compliance with safety regulations. Findings are documented; corrective actions are assigned and follow-up ensures improvements are implemented.

Risk Assessments Risk assessments are a key component of Umoona Tjutagku Health Service’s (UTHS) safety strategy. These assessments are conducted regularly to identify, evaluate, and mitigate potential hazards before they cause harm to staff, clients, or the wider community. By systematically reviewing work processes, equipment, and the environment, UTHS ensures that risks are effectively managed, and safety standards are upheld. In addition to formal hazard identification, UTHS conducts workplace inspections on a quarterly or, where necessary, monthly basis. These inspections involve reviewing physical workspaces, assessing equipment condition, and ensuring that safety signage, emergency exits, and protective measures are in place and functional. This proactive approach allows for the early detection of risks and the swift implementation of corrective actions.

Fire safety is also a key priority within the risk management framework. UTHS conducts fire drills either quarterly or monthly, depending on operational requirements, to ensure that all staff and clients are familiar with evacuation procedures and can respond effectively in an emergency. These drills are complemented by checks on fire safety equipment, such as extinguishers, alarms, and sprinkler systems, to confirm that they are in proper working order. Through these combined measures, UTHS not only prevents accidents and emergencies but also strengthens the culture of preparedness and safety across the organisation. This ensures that the workplace remains a secure environment for everyone, even during unexpected incidents.

Seasonal and Environmental Safety Preparedness Preparing for Summer Heat Waves

As summer approaches, the likelihood of extreme heat events increases, bringing significant health and safety challenges for both staff and clients. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can cause heat stress, dehydration, and in severe cases, heatstroke. Umoona Tjutagku Health Service (UTHS) takes a proactive approach to seasonal safety by implementing a comprehensive heat wave preparedness plan that focuses on prevention, protection, and education. 1. Air Conditioning and Cooling System Readiness Before the summer heat sets in, UTHS conducts thorough inspections of all air conditioning and cooling systems to ensure they are in optimal working condition. Technicians check for adequate refrigerant levels, clean filters, and service any worn parts to maintain efficient cooling. Portable cooling units are also tested, and contingency plans are in place for emergency replacements should a unit fail during extreme temperatures. 2. Hydration and Nutrition Strategies Hydration is a critical factor in preventing heat related illnesses. Fresh, clean drinking water is readily available across all work areas, and hydration stations are set up in high traffic locations. Staff are encouraged to drink water frequently, even before feeling thirsty. Nutritional guidance is also provided, recommending lighter meals with high water content such as fruits and salads, which help maintain hydration and energy during hot conditions.

3. Work Schedule Adjustments To reduce exposure to peak heat periods, UTHS adjusts work schedules during summer months. Outdoor activities are planned for early mornings or late afternoons when temperatures are lower. High risk tasks requiring physical exertion are rescheduled to cooler parts of the day, and shift rotations are implemented to prevent prolonged exposure. 4. Protective Clothing and Sun Safety All staff working outdoors are provided with lightweight, breathable uniforms, wide brimmed hats, and UV protective sunglasses. Sunscreen is supplied and applied regularly throughout the day. Shade structures and portable shelters are installed in outdoor work areas to provide relief from direct sunlight. 5. Pet and Animal Care During Heat Waves UTHS also recognises that clients’ pets can be vulnerable during extreme heat. Outreach teams provide community education on keeping pets cool and hydrated, ensuring shaded areas are available, and never leaving pets inside vehicles. This not only supports animal welfare but also reduces the emotional stress that pet related emergencies can cause for clients.

UTHSC Key WHS Priorities for the Year Ahead In the coming year, UTHS will continue to strengthen WHS by focusing on three key areas:

• Training: Expanding staff training pathways in

both clinical and non clinical safety practices, ensuring consistency and national compliance.

•

Funding: Securing sustainable funding sources to support WHS initiatives, training programs, and safety related infrastructure.

• Workforce: Investing in workforce wellbeing and resilience, particularly for those working in challenging environmental conditions.

6. Client and Community Education Education is central to UTHS’s heat wave strategy. Information sessions and easy to read guides are provided to staff, clients, and the broader community on recognising the signs of heat stress, emergency first aid for heat related conditions, and practical home cooling strategies. These include using fans effectively, keeping curtains closed during peak sunlight hours, and ensuring homes are well ventilated in the evenings.

7. Emergency Response Planning Despite preventive measures, emergencies can still occur during severe heat waves. UTHS maintains an emergency response protocol that includes rapid escalation procedures, designated cooling areas for vulnerable clients, and coordination with local emergency services for high risk situations. Staff are trained in administering first aid for heatstroke and dehydration, ensuring immediate assistance is available when required.

Administration Department Report Human Resources Management I am pleased to report that Umoona Health has successfully filled the majority of its vacant positions during the past year, including a number of critical clinical roles such as Registered Nurses (RNs) and Aboriginal Health Workers (AHWs).

Dilshan Perera, Director–Business Services It is with great pleasure that I present the Director of Business Services Report for Umoona Tjutagku Health Service Aboriginal Corporation (UTHSAC) for the financial year ending 30 June 2026. The 2025/2026 financial year has been one of continued growth and organisational development. Throughout the year, the Business Services portfolio has remained focused on strengthening our workforce, maintaining sound financial management and governance, progressing key capital works, and supporting high standards of accreditation and continuous improvement across the organisation.

Strengthening our workforce has enabled the organisation to expand service delivery and, in many areas, exceed funders’ expectations. Most importantly, this has enhanced our capacity to respond to the needs of the Community and contribute to improved health outcomes for our Members and Clients. During the year, the Health Services Union and the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation advised that they were not in a position to negotiate Enterprise Agreements with Umoona Health at this time. In response, the organisation has continued to remunerate employees in accordance with the relevant Awards, together with additional benefits designed to recognise the challenges associated with working and living in a remote location. While this was an unforeseen development, Umoona Health remains strongly committed to supporting, recognising and retaining its workforce. Our employees are fundamental to the success of the organisation, and we will continue to explore appropriate ways of providing competitive remuneration, benefits and a supportive working environment.

Finance

Umoona Health maintained a strong financial position throughout the 2025/2026 financial year. With annual program funding now exceeding $10 million, the organisation has been able to expand its programs, increase service delivery and provide a greater number of episodes of care to the Community.

The organisation concluded the financial year with a surplus, with available funds to be carried forward and utilised for approved program delivery and associated expenditure during the 2026/2027 financial year, in accordance with relevant funding requirements. Consistent with our commitment to sound financial governance, accountability and transparency, Umoona Health undertook both an Interim Audit and an End-ofFinancial-Year Audit. These processes provide assurance that the organisation’s financial resources are being managed efficiently and effectively, appropriate financial controls remain in place, and established policies and procedures are being consistently followed. The organisation has maintained continuity with its external Accountants and independent Auditors, providing stability and a strong understanding of Umoona Health’s financial operations and reporting requirements.

Major Capital Works The proposed New Clinic Building Project remains a major strategic priority for Umoona Health. During the year, progress on the project was constrained by a funding shortfall. The organisation continues to work actively with the Commonwealth Government and relevant stakeholders to identify additional funding opportunities that will enable this important project to proceed. Umoona Health is working closely with NACCHOappointed consultants and building professionals to review and rescope the project, with the objective of developing a financially sustainable model while maintaining the essential clinical and operational requirements of the new facility.

The organisation is also pursuing opportunities for additional top-up funding through Round 3 of the Major Capital Works Program. We remain optimistic that these efforts will achieve a positive outcome and enable the project to progress to the construction phase as soon as practicable. The new Clinic remains an important investment in the future of Umoona Health and will strengthen our capacity to provide accessible, culturally appropriate and high-quality healthcare to the Community for many years to come.

Accreditation and Continuous Improvement Umoona Health continues to place a strong emphasis on quality, safety, good governance and continuous improvement across all areas of the organisation. The organisation is preparing for the renewal of its RACGP and QIC accreditations, with RACGP accreditation scheduled for September 2026 and QIC accreditation expected to follow shortly thereafter.

Looking Forward As we enter the 2026/2027 financial year, the Business Services portfolio will continue to focus on maintaining a strong and sustainable workforce, sound financial management, effective corporate governance, successful accreditation outcomes and the progression of the New Clinic Building Project. I would like to acknowledge the Board, Chief Executive Officer, management team and all Umoona Health staff for their commitment and contribution throughout the year. Their collective efforts continue to strengthen the organisation and enable Umoona Health to provide highquality services to our Members, Clients and the wider Community. Dilshan Perera, Director – Business Services

These accreditation processes provide an important independent assessment of the standards, systems, policies and procedures that support both our clinical services and broader organisational operations. We are proud of the high standards maintained across Umoona Health and remain committed to a culture of continuous quality improvement. This commitment strengthens our internal systems while supporting the delivery of safe, effective and high-quality patient care, preventative health programs and improved health outcomes for the Community.

Admin Staff

Priscilla Larkins Chief Executive Officer

Dilshan Perera Director - Business Services

Jayden Muller Finance Manager & Accreditation Officer

Dhananjani Bandara Senior Accountant

Prabhavi Kothalawala Accountant

Geethanjana Yatawara IT & Communicare Support Officer

Imedha Gaspe Facilities Officer

Diyanath Gunarathne Cleaner

Clinic Manager’s Report As we reflect on another successful year, Umoona Tjutagku Health Service Aboriginal Corporation (UTHSAC) is proud to celebrate the achievements of our organisation, the dedication of our workforce, and the trust placed in us by the communities we serve across Coober Pedy and surrounding regions. Our vision remains clear: to provide accessible, culturally safe and responsive healthcare services that improve the health and wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Through the commitment of our Board, staff, partners and community members, we continue to deliver high-quality, person-centred services that make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.

Stacy Kambouris Primary and Community Healthcare Consultant

Laura Larkins Clinic Manager

Particularly encouraging has been the feedback regarding our programs across the Clinic, DAS and Healthy4Life. Consumers reported feeling more connected, supported and empowered to manage their health and wellbeing. Families have also expressed appreciation for the compassionate and respectful care provided during times of vulnerability and crisis. The success of UTHSAC is underpinned by the dedication of our workforce. Our staff continue to demonstrate professionalism, cultural respect and a genuine commitment to improving community health outcomes. Across all programs, staff have embraced opportunities to enhance their skills, strengthen service delivery and contribute to quality improvement initiatives.

Throughout the year, UTHSAC has provided comprehensive primary healthcare, chronic disease management, dental services, social and emotional wellbeing support, mental health services, alcohol and other drug programs, maternal and child health services, health promotion initiatives, and specialist outreach coordination. These services are delivered with a holistic approach that recognises the importance of physical, emotional, social, cultural and spiritual wellbeing. The positive feedback received from consumers reflects the impact of these services. Community members consistently describe UTHSAC as a welcoming and culturally safe environment where they feel respected, listened to and supported. One consumer shared, “The staff always take the time to explain things properly and make me feel comfortable. They know me and my family and genuinely care about our wellbeing.” Another consumer noted, “Without UTHSAC, I would have struggled to access the support I needed. They helped me navigate my healthcare and connected me with services that have made a real difference.”

Staff feedback highlights a strong sense of purpose and pride in their work. Many have expressed appreciation for the supportive team environment and the opportunity to make a positive impact within the community. One staff member reflected, “Working at UTHSAC allows me to contribute to something meaningful every day. We see the difference our services make, and that motivates us to continually improve.” Another noted, “The organisation values community voices and supports staff to deliver culturally responsive care that genuinely meets people’s needs.” UTHSAC has continued to strengthen its governance, quality and safety systems, ensuring that services remain accountable, responsive and focused on continuous improvement. Accreditation activities, workforce development, community engagement and quality improvement initiatives have all contributed to enhancing service effectiveness and consumer outcomes. Importantly, UTHSAC’s achievements are not measured solely by service numbers or program outputs, but by the relationships built within the community and the positive health outcomes experienced by individuals and families. Every appointment attended, every referral coordinated, every wellbeing conversation held, and every consumer supported represents a step towards healthier individuals and stronger communities. As we look to the future, UTHSAC remains committed to listening to our community, supporting our workforce and strengthening services that respond to emerging needs. We thank our consumers, families, carers, staff, Board members, partners and stakeholders for their ongoing support, collaboration and trust. Together, we continue to create healthier futures, stronger communities and lasting positive change for Aboriginal people across Coober Pedy and the surrounding regions.

Aboriginal Health Workers: Caring for Community,Strengthening Culture Aboriginal Health Workers are at the heart of Umoona Tjutagku Health Service, providing culturally safe care and acting as trusted links between our community and healthcare services. Their work extends well beyond clinical support—they build relationships, promote health, provide education, advocate for clients and ensure care is delivered with respect for culture, family and community. Throughout the year, our Aboriginal Health Workers have supported clients across every stage of their healthcare journey. From health assessments and chronic disease management to health promotion, outreach, transport assistance and follow-up care, they have helped individuals and families access the services they need while encouraging healthier lifestyles and stronger wellbeing. The dedication of our Aboriginal Health Workers continues to make a lasting impact. Clients regularly express their appreciation for the kindness, understanding and cultural knowledge that our staff bring to every interaction. One community member shared, “They understand our community, take the time to listen and always make us feel welcome and respected.” Working alongside doctors, nurses and the wider multidisciplinary team, our Aboriginal Health Workers have played an essential role in improving health outcomes, increasing engagement with healthcare services and strengthening trust within the community. Their commitment reflects the values of UTHSAC and demonstrates the importance of community-led healthcare. We extend our sincere thanks to our Aboriginal Health Workers for their dedication, professionalism and passion. Their contribution continues to strengthen our community, improve health outcomes and ensure culture remains at the centre of everything we do.

Aboriginal Health Practitioners: Leading Culturally Safe Healthcare

positive difference they make in helping people feel comfortable, understood and supported throughout their healthcare journey.

Aboriginal Health Practitioners are an integral part of the Umoona Tjutagku Health Service team, providing culturally safe, evidence-based healthcare while strengthening the connection between clinical services and our community. Their unique combination of clinical expertise and cultural knowledge ensures clients receive holistic care that respects culture, family and community.

UTHSAC sincerely thanks Josie and Aiden for their dedication, leadership and commitment to improving the health and wellbeing of our community. Their contribution strengthens our workforce, inspires future Aboriginal health professionals and reflects the values of communitycontrolled healthcare.

This year, Josie and Aiden have continued to demonstrate outstanding dedication in their roles as Aboriginal Health Practitioners. Through their professionalism, compassion and strong commitment to community, they have provided highquality clinical care while building trusted relationships with clients and their families. Working alongside doctors, nurses and Aboriginal Health Workers, Josie and Aiden have delivered health assessments, chronic disease management, immunisations, health education and preventative health programs, supporting clients to achieve better health outcomes and greater wellbeing. Clients continue to value the respectful and culturally safe care provided by Josie and Aiden, recognising the

By developing a skilled and culturally strong workforce, UTHSAC continues to improve health outcomes, strengthen community capacity and ensure Aboriginal people receive care from health professionals who understand their culture, community and lived experiences. We congratulate all Aboriginal Health Workers and trainees on their commitment to lifelong learning and thank them for their dedication to improving the health and wellbeing of our community.

Building our Aboriginal Health Workforce Investing in the education and development of our Aboriginal Health Workers is an investment in the future health of our community. Throughout the year, Umoona Tjutagku Health Service has continued to support Aboriginal Health Workers to expand their knowledge, strengthen their clinical skills and progress their careers through ongoing education and professional development. Our Aboriginal Health Workers have participated in accredited training, mandatory education, clinical workshops and culturally relevant learning opportunities that enhance their ability to deliver safe, high-quality, person-centred care. Training has included chronic disease management, immunisation, health assessments, mental health, social and emotional wellbeing, infection prevention and control, emergency response, cultural safety and other essential clinical competencies. The organisation has also continued to support Aboriginal Health Worker trainees, providing mentoring, workplace supervision and practical learning opportunities that build confidence and prepare the next generation of Aboriginal health professionals.

Celebrating Aboriginal Health Worker Training Success This year marked a significant milestone for Umoona Tjutagku Health Service as we proudly celebrated the successful completion of Aboriginal Health Worker training by Jonte, Kym and Taylor. Their achievement reflects months of dedication, hard work and commitment to improving the health and wellbeing of our community. Throughout their training, they developed the knowledge, clinical skills and cultural leadership required to provide safe, holistic and culturally responsive care to Aboriginal people and their families. The successful completion of their qualifications strengthens UTHSAC’s Aboriginal workforce and represents an important investment in the future of communitycontrolled healthcare. As qualified Aboriginal Health Workers, Jonte, Kym and Taylor will continue to play an essential role in supporting clients, promoting healthy lifestyles, assisting with chronic disease management, delivering health education and acting as trusted advocates for community members.

We congratulate Jonte, Kym and Taylor on this outstanding achievement and thank the mentors, supervisors and staff who supported them throughout their learning journey. Their success is a testament to the strength of community-led workforce development and inspires future Aboriginal Health Workers to follow in their footsteps. We are incredibly proud of their accomplishments and look forward to seeing the positive impact they will continue to make within our community.

Supporting the Next Generation of Nurses UTHSAC is proud to recognise Aiden and Laura as they enter the final year of their nursing studies, marking an important milestone in their journey towards becoming Registered Nurses. Throughout their training, Aiden and Laura have demonstrated dedication, professionalism and a genuine commitment to improving the health and wellbeing of our community. Their continued growth reflects not only their hard work but also UTHSAC’s commitment to developing a skilled local workforce that delivers culturally safe, high-quality healthcare. As they complete their final year, they continue to gain valuable clinical experience while working alongside our multidisciplinary team, strengthening their knowledge, confidence and practical skills. Their passion for caring for others and serving the community is evident in the positive relationships they have built with clients and colleagues alike. We congratulate Aiden and Laura on reaching this significant stage of their studies and wish them every success as they prepare to become Registered Nurses. We look forward to seeing the valuable contribution they will continue to make to UTHSAC and the communities we serve.

Celebrating Another Staff Achievement We are proud to celebrate the achievement of Shenelle Perera, a former student of Coober Pedy Area School for more than five years and a valued staff member of Umoona Tjutagku Health Service. In December 2025, Shenelle successfully completed her Bachelor of Health and Medical Sciences (Honours) at the University of Adelaide, a wonderful achievement reflecting her hard work, dedication, and perseverance. Her journey also demonstrates the value of gaining meaningful work experience, encouragement, and guidance within a remote Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation. At Umoona Tjutagku Health Service, we are committed to supporting our young mob to enter the workforce, develop their skills and pursue greater opportunities in life. Shenelle’s success is an inspiring example of what can be achieved from remote Coober Pedy and makes our organisation and community extremely proud.

UTHSAC Pharmacy: Supporting Better Health Through Safe Medicines The UTHSAC Pharmacy continues to play a vital role in improving the health and wellbeing of our community by providing safe, timely and accessible medication services. Working closely with doctors, nurses, Aboriginal Health Workers and visiting specialists, the pharmacy team ensures clients receive the right medicines, together with the advice and support needed to use them safely and effectively. Throughout the year, the pharmacy has supported clients through medication dispensing, prescription management, medication education, Webster packing and medicine reviews, helping to improve treatment outcomes and support people living with chronic health conditions. Clients consistently value the friendly, knowledgeable and personalised service provided by the pharmacy team. Many appreciate having local access to their medications and the time staff take to explain treatments, answer questions and provide ongoing support. The pharmacy also plays an important role in maintaining medicine safety, supporting vaccination programs, managing medication supplies and contributing to the organisation’s commitment to quality healthcare. We sincerely thank our pharmacy team for their professionalism, dedication and commitment to delivering high-quality pharmaceutical care. Their contribution is an essential part of ensuring our community continues to receive safe, accessible and culturally responsive healthcare close to home.

Client Follow-Up: Supporting Better Health Outcomes Client follow-up is an essential part of the care provided by Umoona Tjutagku Health Service, ensuring clients receive the ongoing support they need after visiting their General Practitioner. Our team works closely with clients to coordinate follow-up appointments, review test results, monitor treatment plans and provide health education to support their ongoing wellbeing. Throughout the year, timely follow-up has helped improve continuity of care, strengthen chronic disease management and ensure clients remain engaged with their healthcare. By maintaining regular contact and providing personalised support, staff have helped clients better understand their health, access additional services when required and achieve improved health outcomes. Clients have expressed their appreciation for the caring and proactive approach taken by staff, valuing the reassurance that comes from knowing someone will follow up and support them throughout their healthcare journey. UTHSAC thanks all clinical staff, Aboriginal Health Workers and administration teams for their dedication to providing coordinated, person-centred care. Their commitment to client follow-up continues to strengthen relationships, improve health outcomes and ensure our community receives the highest standard of care.

Outreach Services: Bringing Healthcare Closer to Community UTHSAC’s Outreach Services continue to improve access to healthcare by taking essential services directly to community members who may otherwise experience barriers to receiving care. Whether supporting people in surrounding communities, at home or in other community settings, the outreach team ensures healthcare remains accessible, culturally safe and responsive to individual needs. Throughout the year, the team has provided health assessments, chronic disease reviews, medication support, health education, follow-up care and referrals, helping clients stay connected with their healthcare and receive timely support close to where they live.

Chronic Disease Management remains a cornerstone of the healthcare services provided by Umoona Tjutagku Health Service. Our dedicated team works closely with clients to prevent, monitor and manage long-term health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease and respiratory illness, helping people live healthier and more independent lives. Throughout the year, clients have been supported through regular health assessments, care planning, medication reviews, health education and ongoing clinical monitoring. Working together with Aboriginal Health Workers, nurses, general practitioners and visiting specialists, the team provides coordinated, person-centred care that supports better health outcomes and improves quality of life.

The outreach program has strengthened relationships with community members by providing flexible, person-centred care and ensuring no one is disadvantaged by distance or access challenges. Clients have expressed their appreciation for the convenience, compassion and continuity of care provided by the outreach team.

Clients have shared positive feedback about the personalised care and encouragement they receive, recognising the support provided to help them better understand and manage their health conditions.

UTHSAC sincerely thanks our Outreach team for their dedication and commitment to improving health outcomes across our region. Their work continues to strengthen community connections and ensure quality healthcare is available to everyone, regardless of where they live.

Chronic Disease Management

UTHSAC thanks our Chronic Disease Management team for their dedication, compassion and commitment to improving the health and wellbeing of our community. Their work continues to make a meaningful difference by supporting early intervention, reducing complications and promoting healthier futures for our people.

Integrated Team Care (ITC): Connecting People with the Care They Need

Immunisation Program: Protecting Our Community

The Integrated Team Care (ITC) program continues to play an important role in helping Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people access the healthcare services they need. By supporting clients to navigate the health system, coordinate specialist appointments and overcome barriers to care, the program helps improve health outcomes and ensures people receive timely, appropriate treatment. Throughout the year, the ITC team has worked closely with clients, families, healthcare providers and hospitals to coordinate specialist referrals, organise travel and accommodation when required, assist with follow-up appointments and provide practical support throughout each person’s healthcare journey.

UTHSAC’s Immunisation Program continues to play an essential role in protecting the health of our community by preventing the spread of vaccine-preventable diseases. Through culturally safe and accessible services, our clinical team provides routine childhood, adolescent and adult immunisations in line with the National Immunisation Program. Throughout the year, the team has worked closely with individuals and families to promote the importance of vaccination, provide education, and ensure community members remain up to date with their immunisations. Regular recalls, opportunistic vaccination during clinic visits and community engagement have helped improve vaccine uptake and protect those most at risk.

The program has been highly valued by clients, many of whom have expressed appreciation for the personalised support and guidance provided by the team. Clients have shared that the assistance offered through ITC has made accessing specialist care less stressful and has enabled them to better manage their ongoing health needs. By improving access to specialist services and supporting continuity of care, the ITC program continues to make a significant contribution to the health and wellbeing of our community. We thank the ITC team for their dedication, compassion and commitment to ensuring every client receives the support they need to achieve better health outcomes.

Clients have appreciated the convenience of receiving vaccinations locally and the time staff take to answer questions and provide reassurance, helping them make informed decisions about their health. UTHSAC thanks our nurses, Aboriginal Health Workers and clinical staff for their ongoing commitment to keeping our community healthy. Through prevention, education and early protection, the Immunisation Program continues to support healthier individuals, stronger families and a more resilient community.

Antenatal Care: Supporting Healthy Mothers and Healthy Babies UTHSAC’s Antenatal Program continues to provide compassionate, culturally safe care for expectant mothers and their families throughout pregnancy. Working closely with hospitals, midwives and specialist services, our team supports women to access regular antenatal care, health education and monitoring to promote healthy pregnancies and positive birth outcomes. Throughout the year, the program has provided comprehensive pregnancy assessments, education, routine screening, referrals and ongoing support, ensuring women receive the care they need close to home. The team also encourages family involvement and works collaboratively with other healthcare providers to ensure continuity of care before, during and after birth. Clients have expressed their appreciation for the respectful and supportive care they receive, valuing the trusted relationships built with the UTHSAC team during this important stage of life. UTHSAC thanks our nurses, Aboriginal Health Workers and visiting health professionals for their dedication to supporting mothers, babies and families. Together, they continue to give every child the best possible start in life while strengthening the health and wellbeing of our community.

Infection Prevention and Control: Keeping Our Community Safe Infection Prevention and Control remains a key priority at Umoona Tjutagku Health Service, ensuring a safe environment for clients, visitors and staff. Through evidence- based practices, ongoing staff education and regular monitoring, UTHSAC continues to reduce the risk of infection and protect the health of our community. Throughout the year, our team has maintained high standards of hand hygiene, cleaning and disinfection, safe use of personal protective equipment, sterilise clinical equipment and vaccination programs for staff. Regular audits, surveillance and training have supported continuous improvement and ensured compliance with national infection prevention standards. These measures help provide clients with confidence that they are receiving care in a clean, safe and professional environment. The commitment of all staff to infection prevention has contributed to the delivery of high-quality healthcare and the wellbeing of everyone who accesses our services. UTHSAC thanks all staff for their ongoing dedication to maintaining safe practices and protecting the health of our community every day.

Strong Spirit, Strong Mind: Mental Health Services The Strong Spirit Strong Mind program continues to play an important role in supporting the social and emotional wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people across the Coober Pedy community. Guided by a holistic approach to health, the program recognises that mental health is closely connected to culture, family, Country, community and overall wellbeing. Throughout the year, the team has provided culturally safe, person-centred support to community members experiencing a range of mental health and wellbeing concerns. Services have included individual counselling, social and emotional wellbeing support, care coordination, advocacy, referrals to specialist mental health services, crisis support and ongoing follow-up to ensure clients remain connected with the care they need. The program works collaboratively with local health professionals, visiting specialists, government agencies and community organisations to provide integrated and coordinated care that meets each person’s unique needs. A key focus of the program has been early intervention and prevention. By providing timely support and encouraging people to seek help early, the team aims to reduce the impact of mental illness and strengthen resilience within individuals, families and the broader community. Mental health education, wellbeing activities and community engagement have also helped reduce stigma surrounding mental health and promote conversations about seeking support.

The program continues to prioritise culturally responsive practice by working alongside clients, families and carers to develop care plans that respect individual goals, cultural identity and community connections. This approach has strengthened trust and engagement, enabling more people to access support in a safe and welcoming environment. Despite the challenges of delivering services within a remote community, including workforce shortages, limited access to specialist services and the significant travel required for some clients to access higher levels of care, the Strong Spirit Strong Mind team has remained committed to ensuring community members receive timely, compassionate and culturally appropriate support. Through strong partnerships with regional mental health providers and visiting specialist services, clients have been supported to navigate the health system and access additional care when required.

Clients have expressed their appreciation for having access to traditional healing within their local health service, highlighting the positive impact it has had on their wellbeing and sense of connection to culture. The collaboration between Ngangkari healers and clinical staff continues to strengthen culturally safe care and demonstrates the value of integrating traditional healing practices with contemporary healthcare. UTHSAC sincerely thanks our Ngangkari healers for sharing their knowledge, wisdom and cultural leadership. Their ongoing contribution enriches our services and supports healthier individuals, stronger families and a more connected community.

The partnership has been particularly valuable for children, Elders and adults living with hearing loss, ensuring early identification, timely intervention and ongoing support. By working collaboratively with our clinical team, Hearing Australia and RDWA helps clients maintain their independence, stay connected with family and community, and improve their overall health and wellbeing. Clients have expressed their appreciation for having these specialist services available locally, recognising the positive difference that improved hearing has made to their daily lives. UTHSAC sincerely thanks Hearing Australia and RDWA for their continued partnership and commitment to delivering accessible, culturally responsive hearing services. Together, we are helping our community hear better, communicate with confidence and enjoy an improved quality of life.

Ngangkari Healing Program: Supporting Cultural Healing and Wellbeing The Ngangkari Healing Program continues to be an important part of the holistic care provided by Umoona Tjutagku Health Service, recognising the vital role that culture plays in health and wellbeing. Ngangkari healers work alongside our clinical teams to provide traditional Aboriginal healing that complements medical care and supports the physical, emotional, spiritual and cultural wellbeing of community members. Throughout the year, many clients have accessed Ngangkari healing as part of their healthcare journey. The program has provided comfort, reassurance and cultural connection, helping individuals and families feel supported in a way that respects their beliefs, traditions and lived experiences.

Hearing Australia and RDWA: Improving Hearing, Communication and Quality of Life UTHSAC is proud to work in partnership with Hearing Australia and RDWA to improve hearing health and support better communication for people of all ages within our community. Through regular visiting services, clients have been able to access hearing assessments, hearing aid support and specialist hearing care closer to home, reducing the need to travel long distances.

Jeewana Perera Transport Officer / Enhanced Syphilis

Sexual Health Program: Promoting Healthy Communities Through Education and Care UTHSAC’s Sexual Health Program provides culturally safe, confidential and respectful care to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, with a strong focus on young people aged 15 to 35 years. The program aims to improve sexual health outcomes by providing education, screening, testing, treatment and ongoing support in an environment where community members feel safe, respected and free from judgement. Throughout the year, the program has delivered STI screening and testing, sexual health assessments, HIV prevention initiatives, safe sex education, condom distribution, school and youth education sessions, and activities during Sexual Health Awareness Week. These services encourage early detection, timely treatment and informed decisionmaking while helping to reduce the stigma often associated with sexual health. By promoting open conversations and providing confidential, culturally responsive care, the Sexual Health team continues to build trust within the community and encourage greater participation in preventative healthcare. Community members are supported to ask questions, seek advice and access the care they need with confidence and dignity. Looking ahead, UTHSAC remains committed to ensuring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have equitable access to high-quality sexual health services where routine screening, prevention, treatment and education are normalised. Through ongoing community engagement and culturally safe care, the program will continue to empower individuals and contribute to healthier communities for the future.

Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD): Protecting Hearts and Supporting Healthy Communities UTHSAC remains committed to reducing the impact of Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD) through early detection, ongoing monitoring, education and regular treatment. Randy has been working closely with clients, families and specialist services, our team supports people living with RHD to receive timely care and maintain their long-term heart health. Throughout the year, staff have coordinated regular penicillin injections, clinical reviews, specialist

appointments and client education to help prevent complications and improve health outcomes. By encouraging adherence to treatment plans and providing culturally safe support, the team continues to reduce barriers to care and strengthen continuity of treatment. The RHD program has helped improve awareness within the community and supports clients to take an active role in managing their health. UTHSAC thanks our Aboriginal Health Workers, nurses and clinical staff for their dedication and commitment to protecting the heart health of our community and improving the lives of those living with RHD.

Health Promotion: Empowering Our Community Health promotion continues to be an important part of Umoona Tjutagku Health Service’s commitment to preventing illness and supporting healthier lifestyles. Throughout the year, Damien has played a key role in delivering engaging health promotion activities that encourage community members to take an active role in their health and wellbeing. Working closely with clients, schools, community groups and the clinical team, Damien has promoted healthy eating, physical activity, chronic disease prevention, smoking cessation, sexual health, men’s health and other important health initiatives. Through education, community events and one-on-one support, he has helped raise awareness and empower people to make positive health choices. Community members have appreciated Damien’s approachable and engaging style, recognising his commitment to improving health outcomes and building strong relationships across the community. His passion for health promotion has encouraged greater participation in preventive health programs and strengthened community awareness of the services available through UTHSAC.

Damien Riessen, Health Promotions Officer

UTHSAC sincerely thanks Damien for his dedication, enthusiasm and commitment to improving the health and wellbeing of our community. His work continues to inspire healthier lifestyles and supports stronger, healthier families across our region.

Cancer Care Support Program: Promoting Early Detection and Better Outcomes UTHSAC’s Cancer Care Support Program continues to make a significant difference by supporting community members through cancer prevention, early detection and coordinated care. The program promotes participation in the BreastScreen SA, Lung Cancer Screening, Bowel Cancer and Cervical Screening Programs while providing culturally safe support for clients throughout their healthcare journey. Throughout the year, the team has coordinated cancer screening, referrals, follow-up appointments and treatment support, helping to reduce barriers to accessing specialist care. Community education and health promotion activities have also increased awareness of the importance of regular screening and early detection. One of this year’s success stories involved a community member who completed a bowel cancer screening after attending a cancer education session. Following a positive screening result, the client was supported through the referral process to attend a colonoscopy. The procedure found no evidence of cancer, providing reassurance for the client and demonstrating the life-changing value of early screening and coordinated follow-up care. Looking ahead, UTHSAC remains committed to increasing participation in national cancer screening programs, strengthening culturally safe education and ensuring people living in remote communities continue to receive timely, coordinated and person-centred cancer care.

Angelika Papamanos Program Coordinator (TIS)

Tackling Indigenous Smoking (TIS) Smoking education and support have always been an important part of the work we do at Umoona Tjutagku Health Service. We are excited to have recently taken on the Tackling Indigenous Smoking (TIS) program, allowing us to strengthen the work already being done and create more opportunities for our community to access information, support, and open conversations around smoking and vaping. Through TIS, we focus on supporting different groups within our community, including pregnant women and families, children and young people. We aim to encourage healthier choices by promoting smoke-free homes and cars, supporting families with education and resources, and encouraging young people to make positive lifestyle choices through sport and community activities. The program is delivered through a range of activities, including community events, sporting activities, education sessions for children, and outreach visits to Oodnadatta. By meeting people where they are and creating opportunities for connection, we hope to raise awareness, share knowledge, and support our community to make informed choices for themselves, their families, and future generations.

Environmental Health: Animal Control and Clean Home

Transport Services: Improving Access to Healthcare

UTHSAC’s Environmental Health Program continues to play an important role in creating healthier and safer living environments for our community. Through animal control initiatives and the Clean Homes program, the team works alongside community members to reduce health risks, promote responsible pet ownership and support healthy living conditions for individuals and families.

Reliable transport continues to play a vital role in helping community members access healthcare services across our remote region. Throughout the year, UTHSAC’s transport team provided safe, dependable and culturally respectful transport to medical appointments, specialist services, allied health visits, pharmacy collections and other essential healthcare activities. By reducing barriers related to distance, mobility and limited access to private transport, the service has supported improved access to care and helped community members attend appointments they may otherwise have missed. The transport service contributes significantly to continuity of care by assisting consumers to attend chronic disease reviews, preventive health checks, immunisation appointments, mental health services and follow-up care. Consumer feedback consistently highlights the value of the service, with many clients expressing appreciation for the reliability, kindness and support provided by the transport team. The service also helps reduce the stress associated with attending healthcare appointments and supports positive health outcomes across the community.

Throughout the year, the program has assisted with managing stray dogs and cats, supporting animal health initiatives and educating the community about responsible pet ownership. At the same time, the Clean Homes program has provided practical support to help families maintain safe, clean and healthy homes, reducing environmental health risks and contributing to improved wellbeing. These services have made a positive difference by preventing disease, improving community safety and supporting healthier living environments. Community members have appreciated the respectful and practical assistance provided, recognising the program’s value in improving both household and community health. UTHSAC sincerely thanks the Environmental Health team for their dedication and commitment to protecting the health of our community. Their work continues to strengthen environmental wellbeing, improve quality of life and support healthier futures for everyone across our region.

UTHSAC acknowledges the dedication and professionalism of our transport staff, whose commitment reflects our organisational values of respect, compassion and community. Their contribution remains an important part of ensuring equitable access to healthcare and improving the health and wellbeing of community members.

Cancer Support Program Report Cancer Program: Improving Cancer Awareness, Early Detection and Community Wellbeing The Cancer Program at Umoona Tjutagku Health Service Aboriginal Corporation is proudly funded through the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO). This valuable investment has enabled our health service to strengthen cancer prevention, education, screening and referral pathways for Aboriginal people living in Coober Pedy and surrounding communities. We acknowledge and sincerely thank NACCHO for its continued commitment to improving Aboriginal health outcomes across Australia. Through its leadership, guidance and ongoing support, NACCHO has provided our service with the resources and opportunities to deliver culturally safe, community-led initiatives that are making a meaningful difference in the lives of our people.

Lucy McInerney, Registered Nurse / Cancer Care Coordinator Education focused on: • Understanding the different types of cancer • Recognising the early warning signs and symptoms • Reducing cancer risk through healthy lifestyle choices. • Encouraging regular health checks with General Practitioners • Supporting families to have open conversations about cancer • Breaking down fear, stigma and misconceptions surrounding cancer diagnosis and treatment. Our approach places culture, trust and community relationships at the centre of every conversation, ensuring information is delivered respectfully and in ways that encourage people to seek support early.

Throughout the 2025–2026 reporting period, our Cancer Program focused on increasing cancer awareness, promoting early detection and encouraging participation in national cancer screening programs. By delivering education in culturally appropriate ways and supporting community members throughout the screening process, we continue to reduce barriers to healthcare and empower our mob to take control of their health.

Cancer Education and Awareness Health promotion remained at the heart of the Cancer Program throughout the year. Our Cancer Program Coordinator actively engaged with community members through individual consultations, health promotion activities, outreach visits and community events to raise awareness of cancer prevention and the importance of early detection.

Promoting Cancer Screening Early detection remains one of the most effective ways to improve cancer outcomes. Throughout the year, our Cancer Program actively encouraged Aboriginal people to participate in Australia’s National Cancer Screening Programs by providing education, practical assistance and culturally appropriate support.

Shanto Kuriakose, Junior Cancer Support Officer

Bowel Cancer Screening The program promoted bowel cancer screening for eligible community members by providing education about bowel cancer and distributing National Bowel Cancer Screening Kits. Staff assisted clients by: • Explaining the purpose of the screening kit • Demonstrating how to complete the test correctly • Encouraging participants to return completed kits • Following up with clients where required • Linking individuals to their General Practitioner following positive results. Increasing participation in bowel cancer screening continues to be an important priority, recognising that bowel cancer is highly treatable when detected early.

the importance of protecting skin from the sun and reducing the risk of skin cancer. Support included: • Community promotion and sun safety education • Encouraging community members to use sun protection • Providing sun safety resources and information • Promoting the use of sunscreen, hats, protective clothing and shade • Engaging with community members through health promotion activities and events. These activities provided an opportunity to bring practical sun safety information directly into the community and encourage simple, everyday habits that can help protect against sun damage and skin cancer.The positive community engagement demonstrated the importance of accessible, culturally appropriate health promotion that supports Aboriginal community members to protect their health and wellbeing.

Supporting Our Community

Lung Cancer Awareness

Cancer affects not only individuals but also families and communities. Throughout the year, the Cancer Program continued to provide holistic support by assisting clients to navigate the healthcare system and access the services they required.

Community members received education on: • The dangers of smoking and vaping. • Risk factors associated with lung cancer. • Recognising early symptoms. • The importance of seeking medical advice promptly.

Clients were linked with: • General Practitioners • Specialist Oncology Services • BreastScreen Australia • Hospital Services • Aboriginal Liaison Officers • Patient Assisted Travel Scheme (PATS) • Social and Emotional Wellbeing Services • Allied Health Professionals • Community Support Services

Where appropriate, clients were referred to smoking cessation programs, respiratory services and General Practitioners for ongoing care and assessment.

Working collaboratively across services ensures our clients receive coordinated, culturally safe and compassionate care throughout every stage of their cancer journey.

Sun Safety

Partnering with NACCHO

Recognising the high rates of smoking and respiratory illness experienced within many remote Aboriginal communities, significant emphasis was placed on lung cancer education.

One of the year’s highlights was our continued focus on promoting sun safety and skin cancer prevention within the Coober Pedy community. Our Health Promotion Program worked closely with the community to raise awareness of

The continued success of the Cancer Program would not be possible without the support of the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO). NACCHO’s funding has enabled Umoona Tjutagku Health

Service to strengthen community education, improve access to cancer screening and build stronger referral pathways for Aboriginal people living in remote South Australia. Beyond financial support, NACCHO has provided valuable leadership, resources, professional development opportunities and advocacy that continue to strengthen our local cancer program. We sincerely acknowledge NACCHO’s ongoing commitment to improving Aboriginal health outcomes and thank them for partnering with our organisation to ensure our community has access to life-saving education and screening services.

Looking Ahead As we move into 2026–2027, Umoona Tjutagku Health Service remains committed to reducing the impact of cancer through prevention, education and early detection. Our priorities for the coming year include: • Increasing participation in bowel, breast and lung cancer screening • Delivering more culturally appropriate education across Coober Pedy and surrounding communities • Strengthening partnerships with specialist cancer providers and NACCHO • Improving referral pathways and follow-up care • Supporting healthier lifestyles to reduce cancer risk • Continuing to empower our mob with the knowledge and confidence to participate in life-saving screening programs. Through strong partnerships, community leadership and the ongoing support of NACCHO, we are creating healthier futures by ensuring our people have greater access to cancer education, early detection and culturally safe healthcare.

“Together with our community and the continued support of NACCHO, we are empowering our mob to take charge of their health. Every conversation, every screening and every early diagnosis brings us one step closer to reducing the impact of cancer and building stronger, healthier communities for future generations.”

SSOLID Liver Program During 2025–2026, Umoona Tjutagku Health Service participated in the SSOLID Liver Project an important research initiative examining liver health and the prevalence of liver disease in rural and remote communities. The program at UTHS was coordinated by Damien, Jibi and Josie, who worked closely with community members, clinical staff and the SSOLID research team to support participation in the study. Damien Riessen, Health Promotions Officer

The project provides an opportunity to improve understanding of liver disease within remote Aboriginal communities while increasing awareness of liver health, early detection and appropriate monitoring. UTHS was allocated a recruitment target of 100 participants, including participants with known or identified liver health concerns. The first phase of the project focused on community engagement and awareness. Information about the SSOLID Liver Project was shared with clients through conversations and educational resources, giving community members an opportunity to understand the purpose of the research and how participation could contribute to improving knowledge of liver disease in remote communities.

Jibi Job, Registered Nurse

Josie Warrior, Aboriginal Health Practitioner

The Liver Check phase was subsequently undertaken, with participating clients providing informed consent and completing the required health assessments and blood tests. Clients were also informed about the Teletrial component of the project, which enables relevant study data to be collected and used for research while protecting participants’ identifying information. Community participation and culturally appropriate engagement have been central to the project. A yarning circle was held as part of the Liver Check phase, providing selected participants with an opportunity to share their experiences, discuss the project and provide feedback directly to the research team. This approach supported meaningful community involvement and helped identify areas where further promotion and liver health education could strengthen engagement.

The project has now progressed to the Liver Monitor phase, which focuses on participants requiring further monitoring of their liver health. Eligible participants identified through the earlier Liver Check phase will be invited to continue in the study and receive further assessment and follow-up.

An important component of this next phase is the planned introduction of liver scanning at UTHS. Specialist liver scanning equipment is expected to be provided to the service for a designated period, allowing eligible participants to undergo non-invasive liver assessment locally. Relevant UTHS clinical staff will receive training to operate the equipment safely and appropriately. Providing this assessment in Coober Pedy has the potential to reduce some of the significant travel barriers faced by clients who would otherwise need to access specialist investigations outside the community. Regular communication with the SSOLID research team has supported implementation of the project, with UTHS participating in ongoing meetings, data collection and study reporting. Accurate participant records and study documentation have also been maintained throughout the program. The final phase of the project will include results, storytelling and a further yarning circle, giving participants and community members an opportunity to reflect on their experience and contribute to the evaluation of the project. Through the work of Damien, Jibi and Josie, the SSOLID Liver Program has provided UTHS with an opportunity to contribute to important research into liver disease in remote communities while also strengthening local awareness, screening and monitoring of liver health. The project demonstrates the value of combining research, culturally appropriate community engagement and locally delivered health services to improve access to care for Aboriginal people in Coober Pedy.

Client Survey

Number of services provided for clients 59 50 47 3936 30 21 10 10 9 6 69

How long have you been a client with Umoona Tjutagku Health Service?

From the below list, which services do you access at Umoona Tjutagku Health Service?

16 15

12 10

General Practitioner

237 240

12 55

Health Workers Nurses

Specialists

Allied Health

Travel to Port Augusta or Adelaide for medical appointments

0 0-1 years

1-2 years

2-5 years

5-10 years

10+ years

Support attending appointments

6,075

How satisfied are you with the support provided by the Umoona Tjutagku Health Service?

How significant do you feel this program has helped in improving your health condition?

45 40

35 30 25

Very important

Important

Not important

10 5 Very satisﬁed

Satisﬁed

Dissatisﬁed

Extremely dissatisﬁed

General Medical Practitioner - 6,075 Dentist - 240

Respiratory Physician - 39

Psychiatrist - 237

Cardiologist - 36

Optometrist - 99

Dietitian - 30

Audiologist - 96

Gastroenterologist - 21

Endocrinologist - 69

Diabetes Educator - 10

Psychologist - 59

Midwife - 10

Occupational Therapist - 50

Sonographer - 9

Podiatrist - 47

Physiotherapist - 6

Practice Manager’s Report As Practice Manager, I am pleased to present this report reflecting a year of continued growth, innovation and commitment to delivering high-quality, culturally safe healthcare services to aboriginal community in Coober Pedy. During the 2025–2026 financial year, UTHSAC continued to strengthen clinic operations, improve access to healthcare and support sustainable service delivery. These achievements were made possible through the dedication of our clinical, administrative and program teams and their shared commitment to meeting the needs of our community.

Clinical and Medical Services Throughout the year, the clinic maintained a strong multidisciplinary model of care supported by General Practitioners, Registered Nurses, Aboriginal Health Workers and Practitioners, allied health professionals and visiting specialists.

Chathun Peiris, Practice Manager

Medical services were delivered through a combination of locum and visiting doctors, tele health consultations and specialist outreach programs. Under the guidance of Medical Director Dr Michael Nugent, clinical supervision and medical rotations remained consistent. We were also fortunate to receive regular support from visiting General Practitioners, including Dr Katherine Drinkwater, Dr Nicolas Williams and Dr Kirsten Due. The contribution of our medical practitioners, nursing team, aboriginal Health Workers and visiting clinicians enabled the clinic to respond to acute, chronic, preventative and complex healthcare needs while maintaining a strong focus on continuity, cultural safety and clientcentred care.

Dr Michael Nugent, Medical Director

The clinic continued to provide primary healthcare, chronic disease management, preventative health services and culturally appropriate care. This coordinated approach enabled clients to access a broad range of services closer to home and reduced the need for unnecessary travel. Particular attention was given to strengthening recall and reminder systems, care coordination, clinical follow-up and health assessment processes. These improvements supported earlier intervention and helped clients remain engaged in their healthcare.

Dr Kirsten Due

Dr Katharine Drinkwater

Allied Health and Visiting Specialist Services Access to allied health and specialist services remains essential to improving health outcomes in remote communities. During 2025–2026, community members benefited from regular outreach services provided by allied health professionals and visiting specialist clinicians. Allied health services included: • Physiotherapy • Podiatry • Audiology • Dietetics • Diabetes education • Optometry • Occupational therapy • Psychology • Respiratory health services These services supported early intervention, rehabilitation, chronic disease management and preventative healthcare. Visiting specialist services were provided through the Rural Doctors Workforce Agency (RDWA), whose ongoing support played an important role in improving access to specialist healthcare within Coober Pedy. Specialist services included cardiology, endocrinology, psychiatry, respiratory medicine and hepatology.

The availability of these visiting specialists enabled community members to receive specialist assessments, consultations and follow-up care locally. This reduced the financial, practical and personal burden associated with travelling long distances to access specialist services. UTHS values its partnership with RDWA and the visiting clinicians who support our community. We remain committed to strengthening these relationships, improving referral pathways and supporting continuity of specialist care.

Dental Services

Dental health is an important part of overall health and wellbeing. Throughout the year, UTHS continued to support access to dental care through partnerships with Dental SA, visiting services and established referral pathways. Community members were able to access preventative, restorative and emergency dental care. These services supported the early identification and treatment of oral health concerns, reduced the risk of complications and contributed to improved quality of life. Health promotion activities also encouraged good oral hygiene, regular dental check-ups and healthy lifestyle choices. UTHS will continue advocating for accessible and consistent dental services for people living in Coober Pedy and surrounding remote communities.

Practice Management and Business Improvement A key focus during the financial year was strengthening the systems, processes and governance arrangements that support safe and sustainable clinical service delivery. Key areas of improvement included: • Enhancing Communicare reporting and data-quality processes • Strengthening Medicare claiming oversight and compliance • Reviewing service activity and MBS item-number utilisation • Improving recall, reminder and clinical follow-up systems • Supporting accreditation and continuous quality improvement activities • Improving staff onboarding, credentialing and compliance monitoring • Expanding reporting capabilities for funded programs and organisational decision-making • Supporting workforce and visiting-clinician coordination. Regular monitoring of service activity and clinical performance indicators helped identify opportunities for improvement and supported more effective use of available resources. Collaboration between clinicians, Aboriginal Health Workers, administrative staff and management strengthened Medicare claiming processes while maintaining compliance with Medicare Benefits Schedule requirements. Improved reporting also supported funding accountability, program evaluation and evidence-based planning.These activities contribute to the organisation’s financial sustainability and help ensure that available funding can be reinvested into frontline healthcare and community programs.

Workforce Development and Support Recruiting and retaining health care professionals in remote Australia remains an ongoing challenge. Despite this, UTHS maintained a committed multidisciplinary workforce and continued welcoming new staff across clinical, administrative and program areas. Professional development was supported through training in clinical best practice, cultural safety, confidentiality, chronic disease management, Medicare requirements and digital health systems. Work also continued to improve onboarding and compliance processes so that employees and visiting practitioners were appropriately supported to commence their roles and deliver safe, effective services. The dedication, resilience and professionalism demonstrated by staff remain among the organisation’s greatest strengths. I sincerely thank every team member for their contribution to UTHS and the wider community.

Looking Ahead As we move into the next financial year, our priorities will include: • Strengthening workforce sustainability and staff support • Expanding preventative health initiatives • Continuing accreditation and quality improvement activities • Enhancing digital systems, data quality and reporting • Strengthening Medicare compliance and business processes • Improving access to visiting specialists and allied health services • Continuing collaboration with RDWA and other healthcare partners • Strengthening recall, follow-up and care-coordination systems • Maintaining culturally safe, accessible and client-centred care.

I look forward to continuing to work alongside our staff, management, partner organisations and community members to strengthen our services and improve health outcomes. Together, we remain committed to delivering accessible, responsive and high-quality healthcare while supporting a healthier and stronger community for future generations. Chathun Peiris Practice Manager

Healthy for Life Programs The Healthy for Life Program continues to play an important role in improving the health and wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Coober Pedy. Operating from the Healthy for Life building, the program provides an accessible and culturally safe environment where community members can receive health education, practical assistance, care coordination and support to access clinical and specialist services. Throughout the 2025–2026 financial year, the Healthy for Life team continued to work closely with the Umoona Tjutagku Health Service clinic, visiting health professionals and community service providers. This collaborative approach supported early intervention, improved access to care and helped clients navigate health, disability and aged-care systems.

Chronic Disease Prevention and Management Chronic disease prevention and management remained a key priority throughout the year. The Healthy for Life team encouraged community members to attend regular health assessments, screenings and follow-up appointments. Working in partnership with clinic staff, the team supported clients living with, or at risk of developing, chronic conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, respiratory illness and kidney disease. Assistance included health education, appointment coordination, follow-up support and encouraging clients to remain actively involved in managing their health.

Home Support and Aged-Care Assistance The program continued to assist older community members and people living with chronic illness or reduced mobility to remain safe and independent in their homes. Support provided included: • Practical home-based assistance and wellbeing checks • Help to understand and navigate the aged-care system • Assistance with applications, assessments and referrals for aged-care services and support packages • Coordination with families, healthcare providers and relevant support agencies.

This assistance is particularly important for clients who may These activities contributed to earlier identification of health experience difficulty completing applications or accessing concerns, improved continuity of care and more timely access to services independently. appropriate treatment and support.

Vaccination and Preventative Support

Child and Family Health

Preventative health care continued to be promoted through close coordination between the Healthy for Life Program and the clinic.

Child and family health remained an important area of focus. The Healthy for Life team continued to promote regular health checks, immunisations, dental hygiene, healthy nutrition and the prevention and early treatment of skin infections. Health education highlighted the importance of addressing skin infections promptly, particularly because untreated infections may contribute to serious conditions such as acute rheumatic fever and rheumatic heart disease. Family-focused activities provided parents and carers with opportunities to speak with health staff, raise concerns and receive information about supporting the health and development of their children.

The team encouraged and supported community participation in: • Childhood immunisation programs • Annual influenza vaccination • Routine health checks and preventative screening activities • Follow-up care for clients who were overdue for important health services. Community outreach and appointment support helped improve access for clients who may otherwise experience difficulty attending the clinic.

Community Engagement and Health Promotion The Healthy for Life building continued to provide an important location for community health activities, visiting services, educational sessions and targeted health- promotion events. The program worked collaboratively with clinic staff, Aboriginal Health Workers and Practitioners, nurses, visiting health professionals and external service providers to deliver culturally appropriate activities for different population groups. These initiatives created opportunities for community members to discuss health concerns in a comfortable setting, receive practical health information and connect with relevant clinical and support services.

Where community events were held, children and families were encouraged to participate through engaging educational activities, healthy food and the distribution of practical health and hygiene resources.

Maternal Health Support Maternal health services continued to be supported through collaboration with midwifery and clinic staff. Pregnant women were encouraged to access early and regular antenatal care, while mothers and babies were followed up after birth to support their ongoing health and wellbeing. Support included assistance with appointments, health education, care coordination and connections to other relevant services. The program’s involvement helped promote continuity of care during pregnancy and after childbirth and provided additional support for mothers and families within the community.

Breast Cancer Awareness BIG BRUNCH Our Breast Cancer Awareness Big Brunch brought the community together for a morning of connection, conversation, and learning. Held at H4L, the event gave people the opportunity to learn more about breast health in a relaxed and welcoming environment. Clients took part in a fun quiz using pink-themed items, with prizes to be won, and everyone received a take- home care package. The event encouraged healthy conversations, strengthened community connections, and helped raise awareness in an engaging and enjoyable way.

Umoona Tjutagku Playgroup: Family Health Education Our Health-Directed Playgroup at H4L provided a fun and welcoming space where families could learn, play, and connect. Through play-based activities, parents and carers had opportunities to talk with staff, learn about child health and development, and access support in a relaxed environment. The playgroup helped build confidence, strengthen family connections, encourage healthy routines, and create lasting relationships between families and our team.

Women’s Health Week: Kunga’s Circle Health Yarn Our Kungas Circle Health Yarn brought women together in a safe and welcoming space to learn, ask questions, and have open conversations about their health. We were fortunate to have Sister Gerry join us; a long-standing FIFO nurse who is well known and trusted within our community. Her knowledge, experience, and familiar presence helped create a comfortable environment where women felt confident to ask questions and have honest conversations. The session covered sexual health checks, cervical screening and cervical cancer, breast cancer, lung cancer, and liver health, with our Social Workers also available to provide support. The event strengthened connections, encouraged women to look after their health, and reminded them that support is always available.

Conclusion

During 2025–2026, the Healthy for Life Program continued to provide valuable health promotion, early intervention, care coordination and practical support to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Coober Pedy. The Healthy for Life building remains an important and welcoming community health space, allowing clients to access a range of services in a culturally safe and supportive environment. Through strong collaboration with the clinic, visiting healthcare professionals, families and community organisations, the program continues to reduce barriers to care and improve access to essential health and support services.

UTHSAC acknowledges the commitment of the Healthy for Life team and its service partners and looks forward to continuing this important work to achieve stronger health and wellbeing outcomes for the community.

Clinic Staff Stacy Kambouris Primary and Community Healthcare Consultant

Laura Larkins Clinic Manager

Chathun Peiris Practice Manager

Damien Riessen Health Promotions Officer

Josie Warrior Aboriginal Health Practitioner

Carmel Agrazada Registered Nurse (FIFO)

Geraldine Hanan Chronic Disease Nurse (FIFO)

Lucy McInerney Registered Nurse (Cancer Support)

Raji Mathew Registered Nurse

Sharon Kezia Registered Nurse

Carryl Gabriel Admin Support Officer

Jibi Job Registered Nurse

Glenys Dodd Senior Aboriginal Health Practitioner

Jonte Larkins Aboriginal Health Worker

Angelika Papamanos Program Coordinator (TIS)

Shanto Kuriakose Junior Cancer Support Officer

Mirjana Dukarich Medical Receptionist

Aiden Ackland Aboriginal Health Practitioner (ITC)

Kushendra De Silva Assistant Medical Receptionist

Kym Lebois Aboriginal Health Worker

Misho Miller Aboriginal Health Worker

Jaquan Lebois Aboriginal Health Worker

Jeewana Perera Transport Officer

Brittany Yates Trainee Aboriginal Health Worker

Tanola Treloar Trainee Aboriginal Health Worker

Drug and Alcohol Services Report Throughout the year we continued to strengthen relationships with community members throughout reach, health promotion and regular engagement activities. Building trust remains the foundation of our work, and we are encouraged by the growing number of clients seeking support earlier in their recovery journey.

Thilina Rathnamalala, Drug and Alcohol Services Manager I am pleased to present the Drug and Alcohol Services (DAS) Annual General Meeting Report for the 2025–2026 financial year. Throughout the year, our multidisciplinary team remained committed to delivering culturally safe, traumainformed and person-centred services to Aboriginal individuals, families and communities across Coober Pedy, Oodnadatta and surrounding regions. Our services focused on prevention, early intervention, treatment, rehabilitation and long-term recovery support while recognising the importance of culture, family and community in every stage of the healing journey. The increasing complexity of alcohol and other drug use, mental health concerns, homelessness, family violence and chronic health conditions reinforced the importance of integrated service delivery. Working collaboratively across programs enabled us to provide holistic support that addressed clinical, cultural, emotional and social needs rather than treating issues in isolation.

I would like to sincerely acknowledge the commitment of our staff, partner organisations, Elders and community members. Their dedication has enabled our department to continue improving health and wellbeing outcomes despite the challenges of delivering services in remote communities.

Programs and Service Delivery The Drug and Alcohol Services Department continued to deliver a broad range of integrated services including Alcohol and Other Drugs (AOD), National Ice Action Strategy (NIAS), Social and Emotional Wellbeing (SEWB), Mental Health, Substance Misuse Programs, Safety and Wellbeing, NDIS, Environmental Health, Rheumatic Heart Disease, and Elder Care in Coober Pedy and Oodnadatta. These programs were supported by Aboriginal Health Workers, Social Workers, Registered Nurses, Psychologists, Psychiatrists, substance misuse workers, and community partners working together to provide coordinated care.

Alcohol and Other Drug (AOD) and NIAS Program The AOD program remained the core of our service delivery. Services included comprehensive assessments, counselling, case management, rehabilitation referrals, relapse

prevention, outreach and aftercare. Our team continued to support clients through out every stage of recovery using evidence-based interventions delivered in a culturally responsive manner. Strong partnerships with detoxification and rehabilitation providers improved continuity of care and successful transitions into treatment.

Social and Emotional Wellbeing and Mental Health

Our SEWB and Mental Health programs continued to support individuals and families experiencing trauma, grief, psychological distress and substance misuse. Yarning circles, cultural healing, healthy cooking, arts and crafts, gardening and wellbeing groups created safe environments where community members could reconnect with culture, strengthen resilience and improve emotional wellbeing. Close collaboration between psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers and Aboriginal Health Workers ensured clients received coordinated, person-centred care.

Community Engagement Community engagement remained a major strength of the department. Programs such as Healthy Cooking, Breakfast Program, Men’s Pit Stop, Men’s Music Group, Women’s Wellbeing Activities, Kids Movie Nights, school education sessions, community BBQs, health promotion events, gardening program and outreach activities encouraged participation, reduced social isolation and created opportunities for informal support and early intervention. These activities strengthened relationships with the community and increased awareness of available services.

Substance Misuse Program - Oodnadatta During the 2025–2026 financial year, our Substance Misuse Program in Oodnadatta continued to provide vital support to individuals and families affected by alcohol and other drug use. We recognise that recovery is about much more than stopping substance use, it is about improving overall health, rebuilding relationships, reconnecting with culture, and creating a better future. Throughout the year, our team delivered culturally safe, traumainformed and person-centred services through regular outreach visits and community-based activities. We worked closely with community members to provide counselling, case management, rehabilitation support, health education and wellbeing programs that addressed the physical, emotional, social and cultural needs of each individual. By working alongside the community and our local partners, we strengthened access to support services and encouraged people to seek help early. We remain committed to supporting the Oodnadatta community through respectful, culturally appropriate care that empowers individuals and families on their journey to recovery.

NDIS Program During the 2025–2026 financial year, our NDIS Program continued to support people living with disability to live more independently, achieve their personal goals and stay connected with their community. We understand that every participant’s journey is different, so we focused on providing personalised support that reflected each individual’s needs, strengths and aspirations. Throughout the year, we worked closely with participants, their families, carers and service providers to coordinate supports, build everyday life skills and improve access to health and community services. By working alongside our AOD, NIAS, SEWB, Mental Health and Primary Health Care teams, we were able to provide holistic support that considered not only physical health, but also emotional, social and cultural wellbeing. Our goal has always been to empower participants to build confidence, increase independence and enjoy a better quality of life.

Elder Care Program During the 2025–2026 financial year, our Elder Care Program continued to support older Aboriginal people to remain healthy, independent and connected to their families, culture and community. We recognise the important role our Elders play in passing on knowledge, culture and traditions, and we are committed to providing care that respects their dignity, values and individual needs. Throughout the year, we worked alongside Elders and their families to provide care coordination, health education, referrals and support in accessing health and community services. We also encouraged participation in social and wellbeing activities that helped reduce isolation and strengthen community connections. By working closely with other health professionals and community organisations, we were able to provide coordinated, person-centred care that supported healthy ageing and improved quality of life.

Environmental Health Program

Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD) Program

During the 2025–2026 financial year, the Environmental Health Program continued to promote healthier living environments and support the wellbeing of our community. We recognise that good health is influenced not only by healthcare but also by safe homes, clean surroundings and healthy living conditions. Throughout the year, the program focused on environmental health education, healthy homes, food safety, hygiene, waste management and pest control. Working closely with community members, local organisations and government agencies, we helped identify and address environmental health concerns while encouraging practical ways to create healthier homes and communities. These efforts have contributed to preventing illness, improving living conditions and supporting better health outcomes for Aboriginal families.

During the 2025–2026 financial year, our Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD) Program continued to support the prevention and management of Acute Rheumatic Fever (ARF) and Rheumatic Heart Disease within our community. The program focused on raising awareness, encouraging early treatment and ensuring people living with RHD received ongoing care and support. Working closely with our Primary Health Care team, schools, families and other health professionals, we promoted the importance of treating sore throats and skin infections early, supported clients to maintain their Bicillin treatment schedules and provided regular follow- up and education. Through community education and collaborative health promotion activities, we continued to increase awareness of RHD and support better long-term health outcomes for Aboriginal people and their families.

Partnerships and Workforce Development Strong partnerships with DASSA, Umoona council, Uniting country SA, DCP, SA Health, Coober Pedy Hospital, Housing SA, SAPOL, AHCSA, Nunkuwarrin Yunti, local schools, Aboriginal Family Support Services, Correctional Services and other agencies enhanced service coordination and referral pathways. Staff continued to undertake professional development in trauma-informed care, cultural safety, motivational interviewing, mental health, suicide prevention, clinical governance and quality improvement to ensure services remained responsive and evidence-informed.

Key Achievements During 2025-2026

• Maintained integrated, culturally safe service delivery across all DAS programs • Strengthened rehabilitation pathways and post-treatment follow-up support • Expanded outreach services and community engagement activities • Enhanced multidisciplinary collaboration across internal and external services • Continued remote service delivery to Oodnadatta and surrounding communities • Supported clients with complex alcohol, drug and mental health needs through coordinated care • Invested in workforce capability, governance and continuous quality improvement • Delivered health promotion activities encouraging healthier lifestyles and early intervention.

Training and Professional Development •Building and maintaining a skilled, knowledgeable and culturally responsive workforce remained a key priority for the Drug and Alcohol Services team throughout 2025– 2026. Investing in staff development ensures that our services continue to reflect best practice, evidence- based approaches and culturally safe care for Aboriginal individuals, families and communities. • During the reporting period, staff actively participated in a range of professional development opportunities that strengthened their clinical knowledge, leadership skills and understanding of contemporary issues in alcohol and other drugs, mental health and Aboriginal health.

Professional Development Highlights

July-October 2025 Alcohol and Other Drugs (AOD) Certificate Course through NunkuwarrinYunti - CooberPedy

Drug and Alcohol Services staff successfully completed an accredited Alcohol and Other Drugs Certificate course delivered in Coober Pedy. The training enhanced staff knowledge and practical skills in alcohol and other drug assessment, counselling, case management, harm minimisation, relapse prevention, trauma-informed care and culturally responsive practice. Completing the qualification has strengthened our team’s capacity to provide high-quality, evidence-informed services to the community.

August 2025 Closing the Gap on Indigenous Health Forum Cairns, Queensland

Staff attended the Closing the Gap on Indigenous Health Forum in Cairns, where health professionals, researchers and Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations from across Australia came together to share innovative approaches to improving Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health outcomes. The forum provided valuable insights into Closing the Gap priorities, community-led healthcare, cultural safety, workforce development and integrated models of care, enabling staff to bring new ideas and best practices back to our organisation.

May 2026 AddictionZ Conference - Gold Coast, Queensland

Representatives from the Drug and Alcohol Services team attended the AddictionZ Conference on the Gold Coast, one of Australia’s leading conferences focusing on alcohol and other drugs, addiction treatment and recovery. The conference showcased the latest research, emerging treatment models, harm reduction strategies and innovations in addiction services. Attendance provided valuable opportunities for professional networking and strengthened our commitment to delivering contemporary, evidence-based and person-centred care.

Nunkuwarrin Yunti Workforce Development for NIAA funded staff and managers During the 2025–2026 financial year, our National Indigenous Australians Agency (NIAA)-funded staff and managers participated in a range of workforce development and training opportunities delivered by Nunkuwarrin Yunti. These training sessions focused on strengthening knowledge, practical skills and culturally responsive practice to better support Aboriginal individuals, families and communities. The training covered key areas including Social and Emotional Wellbeing (SEWB), trauma-informed care, case management, cultural safety, client engagement, professional boundaries, and best practice approaches when working with people experiencing alcohol and other drug use, mental health concerns and complex social issues. These learning opportunities provided staff with valuable knowledge and practical tools that can be applied in their daily work. They also encouraged reflective practice, strengthened collaboration across multidisciplinary teams and reinforced the importance of delivering culturally safe, person-centred services. We sincerely acknowledge and thank the Nunkuwarrin Yunti SEWB Workforce Development Team for their ongoing support, expertise and commitment to building the capacity of our workforce. Their partnership continues to play an important role in strengthening our services and improving outcomes for the Aboriginal communities we serve.

AHCSA Support - UTHS Promotional Video During the 2025–2026 financial year, the Aboriginal Health Council of South Australia (AHCSA) supported Umoona Tjutagku Health Service (UTHS) in developing a promotional video showcasing the wide range of services provided to the Coober Pedy community. The video highlights UTHS’s commitment to delivering culturally safe, communitycontrolled healthcare and promotes the important work being undertaken across our programs.

We sincerely thank the AHCSA team members who visited UTHS to plan, film and produce this project. Their professionalism, collaboration and commitment were greatly appreciated, and their efforts have helped create a valuable resource that will promote UTHS, strengthen community engagement and raise awareness of the services available to Aboriginal individuals, families and the wider community.

Ongoing Workforce Training In addition to these key learning opportunities, staff continued to participate in mandatory training, clinical supervision and ongoing professional development throughout the year. Training included cultural safety, trauma-informed practice, motivational interviewing, mental health, suicide prevention, clinical governance, risk management and continuous quality improvement. These learning opportunities have strengthened the capability of our multidisciplinary workforce and reinforced our commitment to providing culturally safe, high-quality and evidence-informed services to Aboriginal people, families and communities.

Khalsa Aid Australia During the reporting period, we were grateful for the generous support provided by Khalsa Aid Australia, whose contribution significantly assisted vulnerable individuals and families within our community. Their support included the donation of essential food supplies, personal care items and other necessities, helping to reduce hardship experienced by community members facing financial and social challenges. This partnership complemented the work of our Drug and Alcohol Services team by strengthening emergency relief efforts and supporting the health, dignity and wellbeing of clients and families. We sincerely acknowledge Khalsa Aid Australia for their generosity, compassion and commitment to supporting remote Aboriginal communities.

Strategic Priorities for 2026-2027 • Expand outreach services across remote communities • Increase access to rehabilitation and aftercare programs • Strengthen Social and Emotional Wellbeing and cultural healing initiatives • Improve service evaluation, data collection and reporting • Develop new partnerships to improve accessibility and continuity of care

• Continue investing in staff leadership, training and clinical governance

Acknowledgements

I extend my sincere appreciation to the UTHS Board of Directors, Chief Executive Officer, Executive Leadership Team, Managers, staff, Elders, community members, funding bodies and partner organisations for their ongoing guidance and support. I also acknowledge the commitment and compassion of the Drug and Alcohol Services team, whose professionalism continues to make a positive difference in the lives of Aboriginal people, families and communities.

Conclusion The achievements of 2025–2026 reflect the resilience of our community and the dedication of our staff. We remain committed to delivering high-quality, culturally responsive and evidence-informed services that empower Aboriginal people, strengthen families and improve health and wellbeing outcomes. Together, we will continue building stronger pathways to recovery and healthier communities throughout 2026–2027.

• Increase community participation in prevention and health promotion activities.

Health Promotion Program Posters

NDIS 2025-2026 Annual Community Engagement and RCC Program Update Empowering Communities and Improving Lives

NDIS Overview and Community Impact

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) continues to develop as a life-changing program for Australians with disability. During the past year, important progress has been made to strengthen equity, access, cultural inclusion, and the everyday experiences of participants across Australia— especially in remote and First Nations communities. This report highlights key initiatives, policy developments, and community-based work undertaken in partnership with Umoona Tjutagku Health Service Aboriginal Corporation and NDIA representatives through the Remote Community Connector (RCC) Program.

The NDIS supports more than 4.3 million Australians living with disability. Over the next five years, it is expected to fund services for 500,000 Australians with permanent and significant disabilities, including many people accessing formal supports for the first time. The Scheme is fully funded by the Australian Government and operates separately from Medicare and the Disability Support Pension.

Diluja Wijayathilaka NDIS Remote Community Coordinator

Heshani Fernando, AOD Community Worker

NDIS supports are designed to improve: • Independence • Social and economic participation • Inclusion within the community • Quality of life for participants and their families. Funding must meet requirements including relevance to a person’s disability, value for money, likely benefit, and alignment with informal and communitybased support networks.

Strategic Tools and Improved Planning Approaches Supported Decision-Making Hub

In 2025, Inclusion Australia, the NDIA, and the Department of Social Services (DSS) jointly launched a new Supported Decision-Making Hub. This central online resource offers tools and information to help participants make informed decisions about: • NDIS planning and personal goals • Health and wellbeing • Employment opportunities and pathways • Accommodation choices. The Hub strengthens participant choice and control by providing support across 12 tailored categories, representing an important step toward participant-led planning and decision-making.

Planning Reform Following NDIS Review Recommendations

A fairerand more consistentapproach to NDIS planning has been introduced to: • Remove the need for participants to obtain their own costly reports • Provide budgets that reflect individual support needs • Give participants greater flexibility when selecting service providers and support arrangements.

As part of these changes: • A Request for Tender was released to develop assessment tools for adults aged 16 and over • A Request for Information was issued to explore assessment approaches for children. The NDIA has committed to introducing these reforms gradually over five years, supporting continuity and meaningful community consultation at every stage.

Early Childhood Approach: Supporting Our Youngest Participants The NDIS Early Childhood Approach assists children under nine years of age who have disability or developmental delay. Based on evidence and developed with early intervention specialists, the approach provides timely, family-centred support. Its key objectives include: • Supporting families to access best-practice early childhood intervention • Building the confidence and capacity of parents and carers • Developing children’s skills in everyday activities • Promoting participation in mainstream settings such as childcare and recreation • Connecting families with community services and support networks. This early intervention approach helps ensure children receive appropriate support during their most important developmental years.

Strengthening Inclusion: First Nations Strategy 2025-2030 The First Nations Strategy 2025–2030 continues the formal commitment to equity and cultural safety for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander participants. The five-year strategy seeks to: • Improve health, social, and cultural outcomes for First Nations people and families • Include First Nations knowledge and lived experience in NDIS service delivery

• Support a holistic understanding of disability and wellbeing • Deliver culturally safe, coordinated, and community-led services. Developed in close partnership with community leaders, the strategy recognises the distinct strengths and challenges experienced by First Nations communities.

Remote Community Connector (RCC) Program: Culturally Grounded Support The Remote Community Connector (RCC) Program continues to grow across some of Australia’s most remote communities, providing an essential connection between participants and the NDIS.

Program Growth and Reach

• More than 200 Remote Community Connectors are active across approximately 480 remote communities. • Through RCC outreach, 10% of new NDIS participants are First Nations people, bringing total First Nations participation to 7.8% nationally.

Cultural Connection and Service Integration RCCs are trusted cultural brokers who support access and planning in ways that respect local customs, languages, and community values.

Community Impact: RCC Program in Coober Pedy

The Role of Remote Community Connectors

Since 2024, the Coober Pedy RCC team has:

Remote Community Connectors assist with: • NDIS access and eligibility processes • One-on-one support to develop and understand NDIS plans • Identifying formal and informal supports • Connecting participants with local and visiting NDIS providers • Guiding people who are not eligible for the NDIS toward other available supports.

• Supported more than 10 new NDIS plan approvals for local participants

This work has strengthened trust and engagement while improving access to services in remote communities.

Accessing the NDI Scan be difficult in remote and very remote locations, particularly for First Nations communities. In response, the NDIA works with Umoona Tjutagku Health Service Aboriginal Corporation to deliver the RCC Program—a culturally responsive initiative supported by local community members and NDIA representatives.

• Provided ongoing support and services to more than 35 NDIS participants • Introduced telehealth appointments, improving access to allied health and other services without requiring participants to travel • Built relationships with more than 20 stakeholders across South Australia and other parts of Australia, including organisations delivering support coordination, allied health services, and plan management for Coober Pedy participants • Connected community members with health professionals, support coordinators, NDIS planners, and NDIS service delivery teams • Supported participants with plan reviews, continued plan access, and assessments until they transition out of NDIS supports • Extended community outreach through visits to Oodnadatta community and Mt Willoughby, strengthening local relationships and improving awareness of available NDIS supports • Participated in Easter with UTHS to promote our NDIS RCC services at Umoona Tjutagku Health Service and connect with community members.

Elder Care Support Program Report Varuni Silva Aged Care Connector

Overview

•

The Elder Care Support Program continued to provide highquality, culturally safe, person-centred services to support older people to live independently, safely, and with dignity within their communities.

• Individual support, advocacy, and referrals

The program adopted a holistic approach by addressing the physical, emotional, social, cultural, and practical needs of each client. Through regular home visits, welfare checks, transport assistance, advocacy, referrals, health promotion, and community-based activities, the program responded to the individual needs of older people while promoting independence, wellbeing, and social connection.

Services Provided The Elder Care Support Program delivered a broad range of services to help older people remain healthy, safe, independent, and connected to their communities. Services provided throughout the period included: • Home visits to monitor clients’ health, wellbeing, and living conditions • Outreach visits within the community • Regular welfare checks through face-to-face visits and telephone contact • Assistance with accessing medical appointments and healthcare services

Anjana Welisarage Aged Care Coordinator

• Support with Aged Care Assessments and guidance throughout the assessment process • Referrals to appropriate aged care, health, and community service providers

Transport assistance for medical appointments, shopping, and community activities

• Health education and health promotion activities • Support for chronic disease management and healthy ageing • Social support to reduce isolation and encourage community participation • Assistance with completing forms and accessing government and community services • Care coordination with families, carers, healthcare professionals, and service providers.

Precella Sumner Aboriginal Health Worker

Client Support and Community Engagement The Elder Care Support Program promoted healthy ageing, independence, and social connection through a range of culturally safe community activities. Throughout the year, participants took part in the Nurturing Body & Mind Program and the Healthy Cooking Program, which provided opportunities for health education, social participation, cultural connection, and improved wellbeing.

Nurturing Body & Mind Program Every Monday, the Elder Care Support Program delivered the Nurturing Body & Mind Program for community members aged 50 years and over. The program promoted physical, emotional, social, cultural, and mental wellbeing through yarning circles, mindfulness, arts and crafts, wellness activities, health education, and shared healthy meals. It encouraged participants to build friendships, strengthen cultural connections, reduce social isolation, and remain active and engaged within their community.

Healthy Cooking Program EveryThursday, the Elder Care Support Program delivered the Healthy Cooking Program in partnership with the Social and Emotional Wellbeing (SEWB) Team. The program supported participants to develop healthy cooking skills, improve their nutrition knowledge, prepare affordable and nutritious meals, and enjoy positive social interaction. This partnership promoted healthier lifestyles while building confidence, independence, and community connection.

Oodnadatta Outreach Supporting older people living in remote communities remained an important part of the Elder Care Support Program. Throughout the period, the team continued outreach visits to Oodnadatta to engage with older people, conduct wellbeing checks, identify support needs, provide health information, and assist clients in accessing appropriate health and community services. These outreach visits strengthened relationships within the community, improved access to essential services, and helped reduce social isolation. The program remains committed to ensuring that older people living in remote communities receive equitable access to culturally appropriate care and support.

Future Priorities During the coming year, the Elder Care Support Program will continue to focus on: • Providing high-quality, culturally safe, person-centred care that supports older people to remain independent within their homes and communities • Expanding health promotion initiatives that encourage healthy ageing, chronic disease prevention, and improved wellbeing • Continuing the weekly Nurturing Body & Mind Program to promote physical, emotional, social, cultural, and mental wellbeing • Supporting more older people through Aged Care Assessments, care planning, and referrals to appropriate health and community services • Increasing health education on dementia, chronic disease management, falls prevention, nutrition, medication management, and healthy ageing • Strengthening partnerships with health and community service providers to improve coordinated care and client outcomes.

Our Dedicated Team The continued success of the Elder Care Support Program reflects the commitment, compassion, and professionalism of our dedicated team. Together, the Elder Care team remains committed to providing culturally respectful, compassionate, and person-centred support that enhances the health, wellbeing, independence, and quality of life of older people within our community. The team sincerely thanks our clients, families, carers, community members, internal teams, and partner organisations for their ongoing support and collaboration throughout the 2025–2026 period. Their contribution has been invaluable to the continued success of the Elder Care Support Program.

Drug and Alcohol Services Staff

Thilina Rathnamala DAS Manager

Leel Hasitha SEWB Social Worker

Anjana Welisarage Aged Care Coordinator

Gnanika Chandrasena NIAS Social Worker

Warunika Warusahannadige AOD Worker

Heshani Fernando AOD Community Worker

Randy Roy Registered Mental Health Nurse & RHD

Samuel O’Reilly Trainee Aboriginal Health Worker

Taihlor Yates Trainee Aboriginal Health Worker

Diluja Wijayathilaka NDIS Remote Community Coordinator

Varuni Silva Aged Care Connector

Michael Liptsey Hygiene Worker& Aboriginal Health Worker

Heather Brownlee RDWA FIFO Psychiatrist

Christiana Goodwin Trainee Aboriginal Health Worker

Susan McArthur Receptionist

Precella Sumner Aboriginal Health Worker

Ana Tu RDWA FIFO Psychologist

Damien Marlowe Drug and Alcohol Health Worker

Alcohol and Other Drugs Report Warunika Warusahannadige, AOD Worker

Heshani Fernando, AOD Community Worker

The Alcohol and Other Drugs (AOD) team at Umoona Tjutagku Health Service Aboriginal Corporation provides culturally safe, trauma-informed and person-centred support to Aboriginal people in Coober Pedy, Oodnadatta and surrounding communities. Our work recognises that alcohol and other drug use is often connected with grief and loss, intergenerational trauma, mental health concerns, housing instability, family conflict, social isolation, poverty and limited access to specialist services. The AOD team supports individuals, families and the wider community to reduce alcohol- and drug-related harm, improve social and emotional wellbeing, strengthen cultural and community connection, and access appropriate treatment. Throughout the reporting period, the team continued to provide assessment, case management, counselling, brief intervention, education, outreach, rehabilitation referrals and follow-up.

Current Challenges in the Community Alcohol and other drug use continues to affect the health, safety and wellbeing of individuals, families and kinship networks across Coober Pedy, Oodnadatta and surrounding communities. Harmful substance use can contribute to chronic illness, psychological distress, injury, family conflict and violence, financial hardship, homelessness, involvement with the justice system, and disruption to parenting, relationships and community connection. Many community members experience several challenges at the same time. These may include grief and loss, trauma, unemployment, boredom, peer pressure, overcrowded or unstable housing, chronic pain, mental health concerns and limited access to essential services. These complex

and overlapping issues can increase the risk of substance use and make it more difficult for individuals to begin or maintain recovery. Housing remains a significant challenge within the community. Some clients experience homelessness, couch surfing, overcrowding or unsafe living environments. A lack of stable accommodation can affect a person’s ability to attend appointments, manage medication, maintain daily routines and remain engaged with treatment. It can also make harm reduction, withdrawal and relapse-prevention planning more difficult, particularly when alcohol or other drugs are being used within the household or surrounding environment.

A major barrier is the limited availability of inpatient withdrawal services. Residential rehabilitation programs often require clients to complete detoxification before admission; however, suitable withdrawal services are located a considerable distance from Coober Pedy and Oodnadatta. Waiting periods, travel costs, transport arrangements, accommodation, medical documentation and separation from family and Country can interrupt treatment pathways and discourage clients from continuing with referrals. The remote location of the communities also limits access to specialist mental health, rehabilitation, housing and social support services. Clients may need to travel long distances and remain away from their family, culture and support networks for extended periods. For some clients, home-based withdrawal is not appropriate or safe because of health risks, limited family support or exposure to alcohol and other drugs in their living environment.

These challenges highlight the importance of locally available, culturally safe and coordinated AOD services. Continued outreach, advocacy, case management and collaboration with health, housing, mental health, justice and rehabilitation services are essential to reducing barriers and supporting clients throughout their recovery journey.

Role and Responsibilities of AOD Social Workers

Client Follow-Ups Regular follow-up is essential because recovery is rarely a straight pathway. Workers maintain contact through appointments, telephone calls, home visits, outreach and informal check-ins. Follow-up identifies changes in substance use, mood, safety, housing, family relationships, finances or motivation. It also reassures clients that support remains available after a setback, hospital admission, withdrawal program or rehabilitation stay.

AOD Social Workers provide holistic support that considers physical health, mental health, family, culture, housing, finances, legal needs and personal goals. Responsibilities include building trusting relationships; completing AOD and psychosocial assessments; developing care plans; providing counselling and brief interventions; delivering harmminimisation education; coordinating referrals; advocating for clients; conducting outreach and home visits; maintaining records; and working collaboratively with families, UTHS teams and external agencies. The AOD team also delivers structured activities, including women’s arts and crafts, healthy cooking and men’s music programs. These activities promote routine, confidence, social connection, practical skills and healthier alternatives to alcohol and other drug use. These activities are designed to provide meaningful and culturally appropriate alternatives that promote connection, creativity, and skill-building.

Key Service Activities in 2025-2026 AOD Case Management

AOD case management is a structured, client-focused process used to understand each person’s substance use, wellbeing, risks, strengths and goals. Assessment may cover alcohol and drug history, mental and physical health, housing, family relationships, legal issues, safety and readiness for change. The worker and client then develop an individual care plan. Goals may include reducing use, maintaining abstinence, improving medication routines, attending counselling, reconnecting with family, addressing housing, preparing for detoxification or entering rehabilitation. Plans are reviewed and adjusted as circumstances change.

Brief Interventions

Advice and Education

Brief interventions are short, purposeful conversations that raise awareness of risky substance use and encourage positive change. They may occur during clinic appointments, outreach, home visits, group activities or community events. Workers provide clear information, explore concerns, identify motivation and offer practical steps matched to the client’s readiness to change. Topics may include overdose risk, mixing substances, medication safety, withdrawal symptoms, tobacco use, mental health effects and when to seek urgent medical help.

Advice and education are provided in individual sessions, groups, yarning circles, workshops and community outreach. Information is delivered in plain language and supported by visual resources. Topics include harm minimisation, safe medication use, the effects of substances on physical and mental health, pregnancy and fetal development, relapse warning signs, coping with cravings, self-care, stress management, suicide prevention and available treatment options.

Counselling The AOD team provides one-to-one and group counselling that is culturally safe, trauma-informed and strengths based. Counselling offers a confidential space to discuss substance use, grief, trauma, anxiety, depression, family conflict and other pressures. Workers use active listening, motivational interviewing, goal setting, problem solving and practical coping strategies. Sessions may include breathing exercises, identifying triggers, managing cravings, safety planning, strengthening self-care and building confidence.

Liaising with Other Agencies Many clients require support from several services. The AOD team works with UTHS clinical services, Social and Emotional Wellbeing staff, psychologists, psychiatrists, hospitals, DASSA, rehabilitation providers, housing and employment services, community organisations, justice services and SAPOL when required. Interagency work may include case conferences, referral coordination, advocacy, arranging appointments and transport, gathering documents and planning aftercare.

Referrals to Detoxification and Rehabilitation Residential rehabilitation plays an important role in helping individuals overcome alcohol and other drug (AOD) dependence by providing a structured and supportive environment for recovery. South Australia offers a range of residential rehabilitation services, including programs operated by the Aboriginal Drug and Alcohol Council (ADAC), Uniting Communities, Baptist Care SA, and other specialist providers. Throughout the reporting period, the Drug and Alcohol Services (DAS) AOD Social Workers supported clients to access these services by providing information on available

programs, assisting with referrals, coordinating required medical documentation, and supporting clients through the intake process. Most rehabilitation programs require a detoxification period before admission and offer long-term residential support to promote lasting recovery. Several clients successfully completed residential rehabilitation during the year, while others progressed through assessment and admission. Following discharge, the AOD team continued to provide ongoing follow-up, case management, and relapse prevention support to help clients maintain their recovery and achieve positive longterm outcomes.

AOD Service Delivery 2%

Client Follow-Ups 7% Home Visits AOD Case Management

The AOD Service Delivery chart illustrates the percentage distribution of different Alcohol and Other Drug (AOD) support activities during the last year.

37%

DAS Brief Intervention AOD Workshop

14%

Advice/Education AOD Enrolment/Case Plan

27%

359 318

AOD Case Management

44 47

AOD Enrolment/Case Plan

The bar chart presents the number of males and females who accessed various AOD (Alcohol and Other Drugs) services during this period.

Advice/Education

61 332

DAS Brief Intervention

186 1,065

Client Follow-Ups

717 907

Home Visits

411 202

AOD Workshop

144 24 15

Oodnadatta Programs 0

200

400

600

800

1,000

1,200

AOD Educational Workshops

Throughout the reporting period, AOD delivered a series of educational workshops designed to improve health knowledge, encourage early intervention and support participants to make informed decisions about their wellbeing. The sessions were conducted in a welcoming and culturally respectful group environment, with presentations supported by visual resources, practical demonstrations and open discussion. The workshops were highly interactive. Participants were encouraged to ask questions, share their experiences and discuss the challenges that can affect healthy lifestyle choices. Practical learning activities and visual models helped explain complex health information and made the sessions more engaging and easier to understand.

Overall, the AOD educational workshop program continued to build health literacy, promote healthier choices and increase awareness of the relationship between alcohol and other drug use and physical wellbeing. The positive participation and engagement demonstrated the ongoing value of providing practical, community-based education in a safe and supportive environment.

Raising Awareness of AOD Services On 1 April 2026, the Drug and Alcohol Services (DAS) team participated in Easter with UTHS, held at the Coober Pedy Oval. The event provided an opportunity to engage with community members and promote the range of Alcohol and Other Drug (AOD) services available through UTHS.

A key strength of the program was its relaxed and inclusive atmosphere. Refreshments were provided, and the workshop setting encouraged participants to connect with facilitators and with one another. This supported peer learning, reduced barriers to participation and created opportunities for meaningful conversations about alcohol and other drug use, recovery and broader health concerns.

The remote township of Oodnadatta, with its small population and limited access to health and support services, receives monthly outreach visits from Umoona Tjutagku Health Services (UTHS) Social Workers delivering both the Alcohol and Other Drugs (AOD) and NIAS programs. These regular visits provide ongoing case management, client follow-up, AOD counselling, and practical support to community members. During each visit, Social Workers engage with clients to assess their wellbeing, identify support needs, and provide culturally safe care. Yarning circles are an important part of the outreach program, creating a respectful space for participants to discuss cultural identity, health and wellbeing, alcohol and other drug use, and challenges affecting the community. During the reporting period, outreach sessions included education on the physical and mental health impacts of alcohol and other drug use, as well as discussions on harm minimisation strategies to help reduce the risks associated with substance use. Participants explored healthier lifestyle choices and learned about available support services to assist them on their recovery journey.

The educational workshops also strengthened links between participants, AOD staff and visiting health professionals. Through these partnerships, participants received reliable health information and were encouraged to seek further advice, screening or support when required.

The outreach program also addressed practical needs by providing healthy lunches, food hampers, and winter clothing to community members. Through these holistic and culturally appropriate services, the UTHS Social Work team continues to strengthen wellbeing, promote resilience, and improve access to essential support for the Oodnadatta community. The AOD team set up an interactive information stall featuring educational posters, brochures, resource packs, and displays on the effects of alcohol and other drugs, healthier lifestyle choices, and available treatment and rehabilitation pathways. Community members were encouraged to ask questions,learn about the support services available, and participate in interactive activities and giveaways.

The Open Day was a valuable opportunity to strengthen community awareness of AOD services, encourage early help-seeking, and build positive relationships with community members in a welcoming and culturally safe environment.

Oodnadatta Outreach Program

AOD Success Story Cameron’s Rehabilitation Journey Cameron was referred for support to address his ongoing cannabis use and to explore options for long-term rehabilitation. Through consistent case management, advocacy, and collaborative support, Cameron successfully engaged with rehabilitation services and has demonstrated significant commitment toward his recovery journey. Initially, Cameron completed three intake and assessment appointments with New Roads Rehabilitation and expressed a strong preference to attend the residential rehabilitation program in Whyalla. Following assessment, Cameron was accepted into the Whyalla residential rehabilitation program. As part of the admission requirements, he agreed to complete a one-week detoxification program through DASSA Withdrawal Services at Glenside prior to entering rehabilitation. Throughout the preparation phase, Cameron remained engaged with support services and openly discussed his readiness for change. During follow-up contacts, he expressed motivation to attend detox and rehabilitation and actively participated in planning for his transition. Practical supports were coordinated to assist Cameron, including arranging a travel bag, clothing, toiletries, bus tickets, medication coordination, and transport to the bus terminal. Extensive advocacy and liaison were undertaken with DASSA Withdrawal Services, New Roads Rehabilitation staff, mental health nursing staff, and other support workers to ensure Cameron had continuity of care throughout the process. On 9 March 2026, Cameron successfully travelled to Adelaide to commence detoxification at DASSA Glenside. UTHS arranged the bus tickets and transport to the bus terminal and liaised with New Roads to pick up from Adelaide. During follow-up phone calls, Cameron reported that although he experienced mild withdrawal symptoms,

he was coping well and remained committed to continuing treatment. He spoke positively about the detox environment and demonstrated optimism regarding his recovery. Following successful completion of detoxification, Cameron transitioned into the New Roads Residential Rehabilitation Program in Whyalla on 17 March 2026. During early followup calls, Cameron reported settling in well, completing intake documentation, and adjusting positively to the residential environment. He shared that he was living in shared accommodation, preparing his own meals, and developing independent living skills. Cameron sounded positive, motivated, and hopeful about his future. Importantly, Cameron expressed a desire to remain in rehabilitation for the full five-month program to maximise his recovery outcomes. Since entering residential rehabilitation, he has remained engaged in the program for almost two months and continues to demonstrate commitment to his recovery goals. Ongoing phone follow-ups are regularly conducted to monitor Cameron’s wellbeing, provide encouragement, and support his progress throughout rehabilitation. Cameron’s journey reflects the positive outcomes that can be achieved through collaborative care, culturally responsive support, practical assistance, and the client’s own determination to make meaningful life changes. *Client’s name changed to protect privacy.

Social and Emotional Wellbeing Report Our Approach During the 2025–2026 financial year, the Social and Emotional Wellbeing (SEWB) program continued to provide culturally safe, holistic and practical support to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Coober Pedy and surrounding communities. The program responded to emotional distress, grief and loss, mental health concerns, alcohol and other drug challenges, family pressure, social isolation, housing and financial stress, and the complex effects of trauma and disconnection. Our approach remained grounded in the understanding that wellbeing is shaped by connection to body, mind and emotions, family and kinship, community, culture, Country and spirituality. Support was therefore not limited to counselling alone. It included outreach, home visits, advocacy, practical assistance, case coordination, medication support, psychiatric follow-up, group programs, health promotion, cultural and recreational activities, and consistent relationship-building.

Leel Hasitha, SEWB Social Worker

Throughout the year, SEWB activities were coordinated in close partnership with Aboriginal Health Workers, clinic staff, nurses, general practitioners, visiting specialists, Drug and Alcohol Service staff, families, community members and external organisations. This collaborative model allowed the program to respond to immediate needs while also supporting longer-term recovery, confidence, connection and independence.

Culturally Safe, Trauma-Informed and Strengths-Based Practice Cultural safety continued to guide how the SEWB program listened, engaged and walked alongside clients. Staff recognised that many people carry experiences of grief, intergenerational trauma, racism, institutional harm, family separation and mistrust of services. Engagement was therefore paced according to each person’s readiness, with attention to safety, choice, dignity and self-determination. Rather than defining clients by their problems, the program focused on strengths: cultural knowledge, family roles, survival skills, humour, creativity, community connection, caring responsibilities and personal goals. This approach helped clients identify reasons for hope and living, rebuild confidence, and take practical steps toward improved wellbeing.

Early Engagement, Outreach and Individual Support A significant part of SEWB work occurred outside formal appointments. Regular home visits, welfare checks, transport support, drop-in conversations and follow-up phone calls helped reach people who were isolated, hesitant to attend the clinic or experiencing periods of instability. Gentle and consistent engagement was especially important for clients living with psychosis, substance use, high levels of distress or previous negative experiences with services. Individual support included counselling, risk assessment, safety planning, crisis intervention, advocacy, referral coordination, case management and practical assistance. Where required, SEWB staff supported clients to attend medical and psychiatric reviews, understand treatment plans and remain connected with medication. Weekly medication delivery and regular monitoring were provided for some clients as part of coordinated care.

Key Areas of Impact • Improved engagement with health, mental health and support services • Reduced isolation through regular group programs and outreach • Greater confidence to discuss mental health, grief, substance use and family concerns • Stronger links between clients, Aboriginal Health Workers, clinic staff and visiting specialists • More opportunities for men, women, children and young people to participate in safe, positive community activities • Increased health awareness through targeted men’s, women’s, youth and alcohol and other drug initiatives • Practical support that addressed social determinants of wellbeing, including food insecurity, transport and access to services.

Christiana Goodwin Trainee Aboriginal Health Worker

Women’s Wellbeing Programs: Creativity, Connection and Self-Care

As individuals worked together on projects, informal conversations and yarning created opportunities to identify emerging concerns, celebrate achievements, and provide early intervention where additional support was required. The relaxed atmosphere encouraged trust, strengthened relationships, and promoted a sense of belonging within the group.

Women’s wellbeing activities remained a strong part of the SEWB program. Regular sessions created a welcoming space where women could step away from daily pressures, connect with others and take part in activities that supported emotional expression, confidence and healthy routines. Programs were delivered in a relaxed and inclusive manner, allowing women to participate at their own pace.

Art and Craft Program The Tuesday Art and Craft Program continued to be one of the SEWB program’s most successful and well-attended initiatives, providing a welcoming, culturally safe environment where community members could express themselves creatively while building meaningful social connections. Through activities including resin art, acrylic painting, jewellery making, tie-dye, decorating wooden boards and pots, canvas painting, and seasonal craft projects, participants developed practical skills while enjoying opportunities for relaxation and selfexpression. The Art and Craft Program was led by Christiana and Taihlor, whose enthusiasm, creativity, and strong relationships with participants created a welcoming and culturally safe environment each week. They encouraged participants to express themselves through creative activities while fostering meaningful conversations, peer support, and community connection. Their leadership helped build confidence among participants and ensured everyone felt valued, respected, and included. Creative activities provided a non-clinical pathway into wellbeing support, allowing participants to engage naturally with SEWB staff without the pressure of formal counselling.

Beyond the creative outcomes, the program played an important role in reducing social isolation, improving confidence, and encouraging positive routines. Participants were able to share stories, learn from one another, and develop friendships that extended beyond the program itself. The activities also promoted mindfulness and emotional regulation by allowing participants to focus on creative tasks while taking time away from everyday stresses. Throughout the year, the program schedule was reviewed in response to attendance patterns and community feedback. The Tuesday session returned to a morning timeslot and was trialled as a mixed men’s and women’s program to improve accessibility. To ensure women continued to have dedicated culturally safe spaces, women-only wellbeing sessions combining art, craft, healthy cooking, and yarning were also introduced twice each month. This flexible approach enabled the program to better meet community needs while maintaining culturally appropriate opportunities for engagement.

Brittany Yates Trainee Aboriginal Health Worker Healthy Cooking Program

The Healthy Cooking Program continued to promote healthier lifestyles by combining practical cooking skills with nutrition education, social connection, and wellbeing support. Participants prepared nutritious meals together in a relaxed and supportive environment while learning about healthy food choices, meal planning, budgeting, food safety, and preparing affordable meals using readily available ingredients. The program recognised the strong connection between physical health and emotional wellbeing. Discussions often explored how healthy eating can improve energy levels, mood, chronic disease management, and overall quality of life. Participants were encouraged to share recipes, cooking experiences, and cultural food traditions, creating opportunities to learn from one another while strengthening community connections. The Healthy Cooking Program was led by Brittany, who provided practical guidance while creating an enjoyable and supportive learning environment. Brittany encouraged participants to work together in preparing healthy meals, promoted discussions around nutrition and healthy lifestyles, and helped create opportunities for informal yarning and wellbeing conversations. Her approachable manner and commitment to supporting participants made the program an engaging and valuable community initiative. Preparing meals together promoted teamwork, communication, confidence, and practical life skills while encouraging participants to take these healthy habits back to their families and households. The shared meal at the end of each session provided an opportunity for further yarning, relationship building, and informal wellbeing check-ins with SEWB staff.

Similar to the Art and Craft Program, the Healthy Cooking Program returned to a morning schedule during the year and was trialled as a mixed group to increase accessibility. Dedicated women’s cooking sessions continued alongside the mixed program, ensuring women retained opportunities to gather in a culturally safe and supportive environment where discussions around health, parenting, family wellbeing, and self-care could occur naturally.

Women’s Movie Night Women’s Movie Night continued to provide a safe, welcoming, and enjoyable after-hours activity that encouraged women to connect socially in a relaxed environment outside of their everyday responsibilities. The evenings included a feature film, refreshments, informal conversations, and opportunities for women to spend quality time together in a positive and supportive setting. While designed primarily as a recreational activity, the program also served as an important engagement strategy for women who may not yet have felt comfortable accessing counselling or participating in structured wellbeing programs. The informal environment allowed staff to build trust, strengthen relationships, and identify opportunities to provide additional support where appropriate. The movie nights encouraged social inclusion, reduced feelings of isolation, and promoted positive mental health through laughter, relaxation, and shared experiences. Many participants later transitioned into other SEWB activities, including Art and Craft, Healthy Cooking, counselling sessions, and women’s yarning groups, demonstrating the value of community-based engagement as an entry point into broader wellbeing services.

Bowel Cancer Awareness: Yarn about Gut Health As part of Bowel Cancer Awareness Month, the SEWB team coordinated a dedicated women’s health promotion event titled “Yarn About Gut Health.” The session was designed to increase awareness of bowel cancer screening while addressing one of the most significant barriers within the community—embarrassment and shame associated with discussing bowel health. The program combined culturally appropriate health education with open discussion, healthy cooking demonstrations, practical information, and informal yarning. Participants were encouraged to ask questions in a safe and respectful environment where conversations could occur without judgement. Staff explained the importance of early detection, eligibility for screening, and how to complete the bowel screening test, while dispelling common myths and misconceptions. The event also highlighted the importance of preventative health and encouraged women to take proactive steps towards maintaining their wellbeing. Small gift packs were provided as incentives for participants who completed screening, helping to increase engagement and promote positive health behaviours. The session demonstrated how culturally safe health promotion activities can improve community understanding, reduce stigma, and empower participants to make informed decisions about their health.

Men’s Engagement and Wellbeing

Samuel O’Reilly Trainee Aboriginal Health Worker

Men’s engagement remained a significant priority throughout the 2025–2026 financial year. The SEWB team recognised that many men experience barriers to seeking help and therefore focused on delivering practical, activity-based programs that created natural opportunities for conversation, peer support, and early intervention. Programs were designed around men’s interests, including music, physical activity, health promotion, outreach, and cultural activities, providing welcoming environments where men could engage without feeling pressured to participate in formal counselling. These activities encouraged regular attendance, strengthened relationships between participants, and increased confidence in accessing health services.

within a familiar community setting significantly reduced barriers to engagement and encouraged open discussion about men’s health issues that are often overlooked. The success of the Men’s Pit Stop Program demonstrated that combining health promotion with practical activities and social connection can significantly improve men’s willingness to access healthcare services and participate in preventative health initiatives.

Promotion of men’s programs was expanded through clinic noticeboards, GP referrals, Aboriginal Health Workers, male pre-consult areas, community networking, and distribution of promotional material throughout Coober Pedy. This increased visibility resulted in improved awareness of available support and strengthened ongoing engagement with SEWB services.

Jonte Larkins Aboriginal Health Worker

Men’s Pit Stop Program The Men’s Pit Stop Program remained one of the flagship men’s health initiatives delivered by the SEWB team. Conducted after hours to maximise accessibility, the program brought together clinic staff, Drug and Alcohol Service staff, Aboriginal Health Workers, and visiting health professionals to provide comprehensive health education in a relaxed and welcoming environment.

Aiden Ackland Aboriginal Health Practitioner (ITC)

The event combined general health assessments, mental health education, discussions around healthy lifestyles, alcohol and other drug awareness, and opportunities for men to engage with healthcare professionals in a non-clinical setting. Dr Michael Nugent delivered an informative presentation on men’s health and wellbeing, while other staff coordinated health checks, transport, client engagement, referrals, and a community barbecue that encouraged participation and social connection. This year’s program also incorporated bowel cancer awareness, providing culturally appropriate education about screening and early detection. Presenting this information

Men’s Music Program The weekly Men’s Music Program continued to provide a unique and engaging pathway into social and emotional wellbeing support. Music created an enjoyable and culturally safe environment where participants could relax, express themselves creatively, and connect with others through shared interests. The Men’s Music Program was proudly facilitated by Sam, Jonte, and Aiden, whose passion for music and commitment to community engagement created a welcoming environment where men could connect through shared interests. Their leadership encouraged participation regardless of musical experience, promoted confidence and selfexpression, and provided a culturally safe space where meaningful conversations naturally developed through music and yarning. Their ongoing encouragement helped strengthen friendships, reduce social isolation, and increase engagement with SEWB services.

Participants engaged in guitar, drums, singing, percussion, and informal jam sessions regardless of previous musical experience. The focus remained on participation, enjoyment, and building confidence rather than performance, allowing men of all skill levels to contribute in meaningful ways.

Promotion of the program was strengthened through direct referrals from clinic staff, Aboriginal Health Workers, and general practitioners. Participants were encouraged to obtain medical clearance before commencing exercise to ensure safe participation and appropriate exercise planning.

Music naturally encouraged conversation, storytelling, humour, and peer support, creating opportunities for SEWB staff to engage with participants and monitor wellbeing in a non-threatening environment. Regular attendance promoted routine, reduced social isolation, strengthened friendships, and contributed positively to participants’ emotional wellbeing.

Throughout the year, options for evening gym sessions were explored to improve accessibility for men who were unable to attend during normal business hours. The program continues to demonstrate the important relationship between physical activity, improved mental health, and stronger community connections.

The program continued to demonstrate the therapeutic value of music as a tool for stress reduction, confidence building, emotional expression, and strengthening community connections.

Men’s Gym Program

The Men’s Gym Program continued to encourage healthier lifestyles through regular physical activity while promoting positive mental health and social connection. Participants were supported to improve their fitness in a safe and inclusive environment that focused on individual goals rather than competition. The Men’s Gym Program was led by Sam, Jonte, and Kym, who motivated participants to improve both their physical and mental wellbeing through regular exercise and positive encouragement. Their leadership helped create a supportive, non-judgemental environment where men felt comfortable working towards their personal health goals at their own pace. By combining physical activity with informal yarning and peer support, they promoted healthier lifestyles while strengthening social connections and encouraging greater engagement with health services. Regular exercise sessions helped participants improve physical health, manage stress, build confidence, and establish healthy routines that supported overall wellbeing. The program also created valuable opportunities for informal yarning, peer encouragement, and relationship building between participants and SEWB staff.

Aboriginal Health Worker Leadership

The success of the SEWB group programs throughout 2025– 2026 was made possible through the dedication, cultural knowledge, and leadership of our Aboriginal Health Workers (AHWs). Their involvement ensured each program remained culturally safe, welcoming, and responsive to the needs of community members. By building trusted relationships, encouraging participation, sharing cultural knowledge, and supporting clients throughout each activity, our AHWs played a vital role in creating positive outcomes for participants. Working alongside the SEWB team, our Aboriginal Health Workers helped facilitate group discussions, provided cultural guidance, supported participant engagement, identified wellbeing concerns, and strengthened connections between community members and health services. Their leadership significantly contributed to the continued growth and success of our community programs.

Kym Lebois Aboriginal Health Worker

Strengthening Community Through Aboriginal Leadership The leadership demonstrated by our Aboriginal Health Workers throughout these programs reflects the importance of community-led service delivery. Their cultural knowledge, lived experience, and trusted relationships with participants continue to strengthen the SEWB program and ensure activities remain culturally meaningful, inclusive, and responsive to community needs. Their commitment has been instrumental in improving participation, promoting wellbeing, and fostering stronger connections between community members and Umoona Tjutagku Health Service.

Alcohol and Other Drug Wellbeing Initiatives SEWB and Drug and Alcohol Service activities continued to address the close relationship between substance use, mental health, trauma, family stress and social disconnection. The approach combined harm minimisation, brief intervention, relapse prevention, counselling, outreach, referral and practical support. Strong Heart, Strong Life AOD Workshop The ‘Strong Heart, Strong Life’ workshop was coordinated as a community-based alcohol and other drug education activity. The workshop used accessible, strengths-based messaging to support discussion about substance use, wellbeing, family and healthier choices. A shared barbecue helped create a relaxed environment where participants could engage with staff, ask questions and learn about available support without judgment. Ongoing AOD and Mental Health Support Across the year, clients received individual counselling, brief interventions, relapse prevention support, risk assessment and referral coordination. Clients experiencing co-occurring substance use and mental health concerns were supported through multidisciplinary follow-up, including liaison with GPs, psychiatrists, nurses, Aboriginal Health Workers, rehabilitation services and family supports.

Children and Young People: Safe, Positive and Engaging Activities Supporting the social and emotional wellbeing of children and young people remained an important focus of the SEWB program throughout the 2025–2026 financial year.

Recognising that positive childhood experiences and meaningful community connections contribute to lifelong wellbeing, the program expanded its range of structured activities designed specifically for children, young people, and their families. These initiatives provided safe, supervised, and culturally appropriate environments where young people could participate in recreational, educational, and social activities while building confidence, resilience, and positive relationships. Activities encouraged physical activity, creativity, teamwork, and healthy social interaction, while also providing valuable opportunities for children and families to connect with SEWB staff in informal and welcoming settings. The programs were particularly valuable during school holiday periods, when structured recreational opportunities are limited in remote communities. By providing safe alternatives during these times, the SEWB team helped reduce boredom and social isolation while encouraging healthy lifestyles, community participation, and positive engagement with health services. Parents and carers also appreciated having accessible activities that promoted learning, fun, and social inclusion for their children. Throughout the year, these activities strengthened relationships between families and Umoona Tjutagku Health Service, creating pathways for early intervention, wellbeing support, and increased awareness of the services available to children, young people, and their families.

Easter Program The annual Easter Program brought together children, young people, families, and community members for a day of fun, physical activity, and community celebration. Designed to encourage healthy participation and strengthen community connections, the event created an inclusive environment where people of all ages could come together and enjoy positive recreational activities. A highlight of the day was the “Strong Arms Challenge,” which encouraged participants to test their strength in a friendly and supportive competition. Separate prize categories ensured that both adults and children had opportunities to participate, with gift prizes awarded to adult winners and Easter toys presented to children. The activity generated excitement throughout the community, encouraging laughter, friendly competition, and positive interaction between participants.

In addition to the competition, the Easter Program created opportunities for families to spend quality time together while engaging with SEWB staff in a relaxed and informal setting. Staff used the event to strengthen relationships with community members, promote available wellbeing services, and encourage ongoing participation in SEWB activities throughout the year. Beyond providing entertainment, the Easter Program reinforced the importance of physical activity, positive family engagement, and community participation in supporting social and emotional wellbeing. The event demonstrated how community celebrations can strengthen relationships, reduce social isolation, and foster a greater sense of belonging for children, young people, and families.

Kids’ Movie Night As part of our commitment to supporting the social and emotional wellbeing of children and young people, the SEWB team coordinated regular Kids’ Movie Nights, providing a safe, fun, and family-friendly environment where young people could come together in a positive and supervised setting. These evenings offered an enjoyable alternative to unsupervised activities, particularly during school holidays and weekends, while promoting inclusion, friendship, and a sense of belonging within the community. The movie nights included age-appropriate films, healthy snacks, games, and opportunities for children to interact with SEWB staff in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. The informal setting helped build trust and positive relationships with young people who may not otherwise engage with health or wellbeing services. Parents and carers appreciated having a safe place where their children could socialise, have fun, and participate in meaningful community activities.

Beyond entertainment, the Kids’ Movie Nights supported broader SEWB objectives by encouraging positive behaviour, strengthening social skills, and reducing isolation. The events also created opportunities for staff to connect with families, identify emerging support needs, and provide information about other youth and family wellbeing programs available through Umoona Tjutagku Health Service. The success of these movie nights demonstrated the importance of creating engaging, culturally safe recreational opportunities for young people. By fostering positive experiences, healthy relationships, and community connection, the program contributed to building resilience, confidence, and emotional wellbeing among children and young people in Coober Pedy.

Community and Outreach Engagement Oodnadatta Outreach and Yarning The SEWB program continued to strengthen relationships with the Oodnadatta community through regular outreach visits that focused on culturally safe engagement, early intervention, and improving access to health and wellbeing

services for people living in remote areas. Outreach plays an important role in reducing barriers to care by bringing services directly to community members who may have limited opportunities to access regular support due to distance, transport challenges, or other social and economic factors. Women’s yarning sessions were conducted in a relaxed outdoor setting near the Dunjiba office, providing a familiar and culturally comfortable environment where participants felt safe to share their experiences, discuss personal challenges, and connect with one another. These informal gatherings encouraged open conversations about social and emotional wellbeing, family relationships, mental health, parenting, grief and loss, and everyday life while strengthening social support networks within the community.

The outreach visits also provided opportunities for SEWB staff to undertake informal wellbeing check-ins, identify emerging support needs, and connect individuals with appropriate health, mental health, alcohol and other drug, and social support services. By engaging with community members in a trusted environment, staff were able to build stronger relationships and provide support before issues escalated into crisis. In addition to the women’s activities, planning continued throughout the year to further strengthen men’s engagement during outreach visits. Future activities will focus on creating culturally appropriate opportunities for men to participate in health promotion, yarning circles, wellbeing activities, and connection-to-Country experiences that encourage positive conversations around physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing. The Oodnadatta outreach program demonstrates the importance of flexible, community-centred service delivery in remote communities. By meeting people where they are and delivering services in culturally appropriate settings, the SEWB program continues to strengthen trust, improve access to support, and build lasting relationships with individuals, families, and the wider community.

Health Promotion and CrossProgram Collaboration One of the greatest strengths of the SEWB program throughout the 2025–2026 financial year was its commitment to integrating social and emotional wellbeing into a broad range of health promotion activities. Rather than delivering services in isolation, the program embedded wellbeing conversations into everyday community activities, creating practical and non-stigmatising opportunities for people to engage with health services and seek support. Programs such as Men’s Pit Stop, Women’s Bowel Cancer Awareness – Yarn About Gut Health, Healthy Cooking, Art and Craft, Men’s Gym, Men’s Music, Kids’ Movie Nights, school holiday activities, and Alcohol and Other Drug (AOD) workshops all provided valuable opportunities to promote healthy lifestyles while strengthening relationships with participants. These activities encouraged conversations about physical health, mental health, nutrition, substance use, cancer screening, exercise, family wellbeing, and self-care in welcoming and culturally safe environments.

Delivering health promotion through enjoyable community activities helped reduce stigma often associated with accessing mental health and counselling services. Many participants initially attended recreational or educational programs and later developed the confidence to seek individual support, counselling, case management, or referrals to other health professionals. This demonstrated the value of community-based engagement as an effective pathway into broader health and wellbeing services. The SEWB team worked collaboratively across multiple programs within Umoona Tjutagku Health Service, recognising that positive health outcomes are achieved through coordinated, multidisciplinary care. Close partnerships were maintained with Aboriginal Health Workers, Drug and Alcohol Service staff, nurses, General Practitioners, visiting psychiatrists, psychologists, allied health professionals, and administrative teams to ensure clients received holistic and coordinated support. Collaboration also extended to visiting specialist services, community organisations, educational institutions, and external health providers, enabling clients to access a wider range of services while maintaining continuity of care. Regular communication between service providers strengthened referral pathways, reduced duplication of services, and ensured that clients with complex mental health, alcohol and other drug, physical health, or social support needs received coordinated care tailored to their individual circumstances. Throughout the year, SEWB staff also participated in multidisciplinary case discussions, coordinated referrals, assisted with specialist appointments, supported psychiatric reviews, provided transport where required, and worked closely with families and carers to ensure clients remained engaged with ongoing treatment and recovery plans. This integrated approach recognises that social and emotional wellbeing is influenced by many interconnected factors, including physical health, culture, family, housing, education, employment, and community connection. By working collaboratively across programs and disciplines, the SEWB team was able to provide holistic, person-centred care that addressed both immediate concerns and the broader determinants of health.

The continued success of this collaborative model highlights the importance of partnerships in delivering comprehensive, culturally safe healthcare. By bringing together the expertise of different disciplines and embedding wellbeing into everyday community activities, the SEWB program has strengthened engagement, improved health outcomes, and enhanced the quality and continuity of care for Aboriginal people and their families across Coober Pedy and surrounding communities.

Client Success Story: Bob’s Journey Toward Stability and Recovery Bob returned to Coober Pedy after completing a period of residential rehabilitation. At first, he was motivated to rebuild his life and reconnect with family and community. Over time, however, renewed family conflict and alcohol and other drug concerns contributed to a decline in his wellbeing. He experienced an episode of psychosis and became increasingly vulnerable. The SEWB and DAS teams responded with consistent, relationship-based support. Regular home visits and welfare checks were completed, and Bob was encouraged to attend counselling, men’s groups and other DAS programs. Engagement was not always immediate, but staff continued to approach him respectfully and without judgment. This persistence helped maintain connection during periods when he was less able to seek help independently.

Medication was delivered weekly to support continuity of treatment. Staff coordinated appointments and transported Bob to see a psychiatrist, ensuring that his mental health concerns were reviewed and that his care plan was understood. Counselling sessions were offered when he was ready, and group programs provided social contact, routine and a sense of belonging. With time, Bob became more stable and began managing his wellbeing more effectively. He demonstrated greater insight, improved engagement and a willingness to accept support. He later returned to residential rehabilitation and, at the time of reporting, had remained there for more than four months. Bob’s progress reflects the importance of persistence, coordinated care and culturally safe relationships. His journey was not linear, but the continuity of support meant that setbacks did not become the end of the story. By walking alongside him through crisis, treatment and renewed recovery, the team helped him move toward greater stability, hope and long-term change.

Reflections on 2025-2026

The year demonstrated that effective SEWB work depends on flexibility. Some people engaged through counselling, while others first connected through music, cooking, sport, art, a barbecue, a home visit or practical assistance. These activities were not separate from therapeutic work; they were often the beginning of trust and the pathway into deeper support. The program also learned the value of reviewing schedules and delivery models in response to attendance and feedback. Moving regular programs back to morning times, trialling mixed participation, preserving women-only sessions and exploring shorter bush-trip formats reflected a commitment to adapting services rather than expecting the community to adapt to the service. No single program can address all the factors affecting wellbeing. The strongest outcomes occurred when SEWB, DAS, clinic staff, Aboriginal Health Workers, families, visiting specialists and external partners worked together around the needs and goals of the client.

Looking Ahead As we look toward the 2026–2027 financial year, the Social and Emotional Wellbeing (SEWB) program will continue strengthening culturally safe, person-centred services that support Aboriginal people, families, and communities. Building on this year’s achievements, the program will continue delivering holistic support through counselling, case management, outreach, health promotion, and communitybased activities that foster resilience, connection, and wellbeing.

Health promotion will remain a key focus, building on successful initiatives such as the Men’s Pit Stop Program and targeted AOD awareness activities. The SEWB team will continue promoting preventative health, early intervention, and culturally appropriate community activities. Supporting children and young people will continue to be a priority through school holiday programs and community activities that combine sport, creativity, self-care, and health promotion. The program will also further develop men’s and women’s Connection to Country activities, recognising the important role that culture and community play in strengthening social and emotional wellbeing. The SEWB team will continue improving outcome measurement by recording attendance, referrals, health screenings, follow-up actions, and participant feedback to better demonstrate program impact and guide future service delivery. Strong collaboration with Aboriginal Health Workers, clinical staff, visiting specialists, families, and community partners will remain central to delivering coordinated, culturally safe, and holistic care across Coober Pedy and surrounding communities. By continuing to listen, adapt and walk alongside community, the SEWB program will support stronger connections, healthier choices and lasting wellbeing.

Regular programs including Art and Craft, Healthy Cooking, Men’s Music, and Men’s Gym will continue, with ongoing improvements guided by community feedback and participation. Dedicated women’s wellbeing sessions will remain alongside inclusive community programs, ensuring culturally safe spaces for connection, learning, and support.

National Ice Action Strategy (NIAS) Report Social workers are catalysts for hope and positive change. Their dedication reaches beyond individuals, strengthening families, empowering communities, and helping create a more just and compassionate society. In rural and remote Aboriginal communities, social workers build trusted relationships, honour culture, and work alongside people to support healing, resilience, and self-determination. Every conversation, every connection, and every act of support contribute to stronger communities and brighter futures.

NIAS Programs and Services As the National Ice Action Strategy (NIAS) Social Worker at Umoona Tjutagku Health Service Aboriginal Corporation, I provide culturally safe, trauma-informed, and person- centred support to Aboriginal people and families affected by alcohol and other drug use, particularly methamphetamine (ice). My role focuses on counselling, case management, harm minimisation, relapse prevention, community education, and advocacy. I work closely with clients, families, health professionals, and community partners to improve wellbeing, strengthen resilience, and increase access to health and support services. I also coordinate community programs, outreach visits, and health promotion activities that encourage healthy lifestyles and support long-term recovery. The National Ice Action Strategy (NIAS) program continued to provide culturally safe, person-centred, and trauma-informed support to Aboriginal people and families in Coober Pedy and surrounding communities who were affected by methamphetamine (ice) and other alcohol and drug use.

Throughout the year, the program focused on early intervention, harm minimisation, counselling, case management, relapse prevention, and community education. Clients received individual support to address substance use, mental health, housing, physical health, family relationships, and other social challenges. Services were tailored to each person’s needs and delivered in a respectful and culturally appropriate way. Community engagement remained a key priority. A range of health promotion activities, workshops, yarning circles, art-based programs, and healthy lifestyle sessions were delivered to increase awareness of the harms associated with methamphetamine use while encouraging healthier choices and stronger community connections. These activities provided safe spaces for people to learn, share their experiences, and support one another. Regular outreach visits to Oodnadatta and surrounding communities strengthened access to alcohol and other drug services for people living in remote areas. These visits provided counselling, case management, health education, and referrals, helping to reduce barriers to accessing support.

Gnanika Chandrasena, NIAS Social Worker

Community Impact

Community engagement remained at the centre of the NIAS program. By building trusting relationships and creating safe spaces for open conversations, the program encouraged individuals and families to seek support without fear of judgement. Education sessions and community activities increased awareness of the effects of methamphetamine and other drugs while promoting protective factors such as cultural connection, family support, healthy lifestyles, and community participation. Many clients reported increased confidence, stronger engagement with health services, improved housing stability, reduced substance use, and greater motivation to continue their recovery journey.

Women’s Bush Trip: Connecting, Healing and Strengthening Together The Drug and Alcohol Service (DAS) hosted a Women’s Bush Trip to Mosquito Creek, providing Aboriginal women with a culturally safe space to reconnect with Country, culture, and one another. The day included yarning circles, storytelling, bush walks, traditional cooking, and shared meals, creating opportunities to strengthen cultural identity, build relationships, and support emotional wellbeing. Aboriginal Health Practitioners, Health Workers, and NIAS and AOD Social Workers were present to provide health information, informal support, and meaningful conversations in a relaxed environment. The bush trip promoted social connection, encouraged healthy living, and strengthened engagement with health and wellbeing services, reflecting DAS’s ongoing commitment to culturally responsive care and improved outcomes for Aboriginal women and their communities.

December 2025 Community Care: Christmas Hampers and Community BBQ

In December 2025, our team supported individuals and families through the Christmas Hampers and Community BBQ initiative, promoting connection, wellbeing, and community spirit. The Community BBQ provided a welcoming space for clients, families, and staff to come together, strengthen relationships, and reduce social isolation. Christmas food hampers containing essential groceries and festive items were distributed to families and individuals experiencing hardship, helping to ease financial pressure during the holiday season. Throughout December, social workers and support staff also provided emotional support, wellbeing check-ins, and practical assistance, ensuring community members felt valued, supported, and connected. These initiatives reflect our ongoing commitment to strengthening wellbeing and building a caring and inclusive community in Coober Pedy.

World Social Workers Day 2026 World Social Workers Day 2026 was celebrated in Coober Pedy with Aboriginal clients and families under the theme “Walking Together: Building Hope and Harmony.” The event highlighted the importance of connection, culture, and community, while recognising the vital role of social workers in supporting individuals and families. The day commenced with a Welcome to Country by a local Elder, acknowledging the Traditional Owners and creating a respectful and culturally safe environment. Participants then joined a yarning circle, where they shared stories of hope, family, culture, and resilience. The discussions strengthened community connections and provided a safe space for reflection and mutual support. A highlight of the event was the Harambee Wall – CoBuilding Hope Activity, where participants shared their hopes for the future and committed to small actions that promote positive change. Community members also added handprints to a collaborative canvas, symbolising unity, strength, and walking together toward a brighter future. The event also included a NIAS Ice Workshop, which provided education on the harms associated with methamphetamine use and promoted harm minimisation and healthier lifestyle choices. A shared BBQ lunch and refreshments encouraged further connection and meaningful conversations among participants.

The celebration was well attended and successfully promoted cultural strength, community wellbeing, and hope. It reflected the values of social work by fostering inclusion, respect, and collaboration while supporting stronger and healthier Aboriginal communities.

Yarning Sessions Yarning sessions provide a culturally safe and respectful space where Aboriginal clients can share their stories, experiences, and concerns through informal conversations. Led by the NIAS Social Worker, these sessions build trust, strengthen relationships, promote cultural connection, and encourage open discussions about wellbeing, alcohol and other drug use, mental health, and recovery. Yarning supports early intervention, peer support, and community healing in a way that respects Aboriginal culture and values.

Counselling Sessions The NIAS Social Worker provides confidential, personcentred, and trauma-informed counselling to individuals affected by methamphetamine (ice) and other alcohol and drug use. Counselling supports clients experiencing mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, stress, grief and loss, trauma, and emotional distress. Sessions focus on improving emotional wellbeing, building healthy coping strategies, preventing relapse, strengthening resilience, and supporting positive behaviour change. Counselling also helps clients improve family relationships, increase motivation for recovery, and achieve their personal goals through a holistic and strengths-based approach.

Oodnadatta Outreach Program: Supporting Remote Communities TheNIAS social worker continued to provide regular outreach services to Oodnadatta collaborated with AOD Social Workers, ensuring Aboriginal people living in remote communities had access to culturally safe and ongoing support. These visits focused on building trusted relationships with community members, Elders, and families while responding to issues such as mental health, alcohol and other drug use, housing challenges, and the impacts of intergenerational trauma.

Programs delivered during the visits included yarning circles, outdoor BBQs, art and craft activities, educational sessions, individual and group counselling, and Ice

NIAS Success Story - Sarah

awareness workshops. Through consistent community engagement, the outreach program strengthened connections, encouraged early intervention, reduced stigma, and supported improved health, wellbeing, and resilience across the Oodnadatta community.

When Sarah returned to Coober Pedy after more than 20 years away, she arrived with very little but a strong hope that life could be different. Although she felt overwhelmed by the many challenges she faced, she was determined to make positive changes and accepted support from the National Ice Action Strategy (NIAS) program.

Challenges

Service delivery continued to face several challenges during the year, including: • High levels of complex client needs • Limited access to inpatient withdrawal and residential rehabilitation services • Long waiting periods for detoxification and rehabilitation placements • Geographic isolation and transport barriers affecting access to specialist services • Extreme weather conditions impacting outreach and client engagement • Reduced staffing following alcohol and other drug funding changes.

Sarah’s life had been shaped by many years of trauma, homelessness, poor health, and loss. She had experienced childhood abuse, domestic violence, the death of her partner, and sexual assault while living homeless in the Adelaide parklands. For almost 10 years, she had no stable place to live and spent much of that time sleeping in tents or parks. When Sarah first engaged with the NIAS Social Worker, she was living at her aunty’s place, but few weeks later she moved to living in a tent beside her cousin’s property in Coober Pedy due to ongoing issues with her Aunty and her family members. The tent was extremely hot, unsafe, and unsuitable for someone with her serious medical conditions. Sarah has a history of four heart attacks, Type 2 diabetes, liver disease, and ongoing mobility difficulties from previous injuries. Her living situation placed her at significant risk of further medical complications and harm.

Despite these challenges, the NIAS program remained committed to delivering flexible, responsive, and culturally appropriate support to the community.

Despite everything she had experienced, Sarah remained focused on building a better future. She shared that her greatest wish was to secure stable housing so she could continue her recovery and work towards reconnecting with her three children, who were living in foster care. She also spoke about her dream of starting her own clothing business using her creative skills and hoped to study at TAFE in the future.

Looking Ahead

The NIAS program will continue to strengthen prevention, early intervention, and recovery-focused services while expanding community education and outreach activities. Building strong partnerships and working alongside Aboriginal people and communities will remain central to supporting lasting positive change and reducing the impact of methamphetamine and other alcohol and drug use.

The NIAS Social Worker provided ongoing case management, counselling, advocacy, and practical support throughout Sandy’s recovery journey. Sarah was enrolled in the NIAS program and received regular counselling sessions, welfare support, and referrals to appropriate services. Close collaboration was established with the Drug and Alcohol Service, the Mental Health Team, and other local support agencies to ensure coordinated care. Recognising the urgency of Sarah’s situation, the NIAS Social Worker prepared a detailed advocacy letter and referred her to Uniting Country SA (UCSA) for emergency accommodation. As a result, Sarah was provided with temporary motel accommodation while longer-term housing options were explored. Shortly afterwards, she successfully secured a rental property. Today, Sarah is living independently in her own home for the first time in almost 10 years. Having a safe and stable place to live has made a significant difference to her health, recovery, and overall wellbeing. She has remained free from methamphetamine and continues to actively participate in Drug and Alcohol Service programs while maintaining regular contact with the NIAS Social Worker for ongoing support. Sarah has also achieved several important personal milestones. She has obtained her driver’s licence, visits her children in Adelaide every month, and is planning to enrol in a TAFE course to further develop her skills and work towards future employment. She continues to dream of establishing her own clothing business and is taking positive steps towards achieving that goal. Sarah’s journey demonstrates that recovery is possible when people are provided with compassionate support, practical assistance, and opportunities to rebuild their lives. Her story highlights the importance of safe housing, trauma- informed care, strong partnerships between services, and ongoing encouragement. Through her determination and the coordinated support of the NIAS program and partner agencies, Sarah has transformed her life from homelessness and substance dependence to stability, hope, and renewed purpose.

Sarah’s story is a powerful reminder that with the right support at the right time, people can overcome significant adversity and create meaningful, lasting change.

Mental Health Support Strong Spirit, Strong Mind The Strong Spirit Strong Mind program continues to play an important role in supporting the social and emotional wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people across the Coober Pedy community. Guided by a holistic approach to health, the program recognises that mental health is closely connected to culture, family, Country, community and overall wellbeing. Throughout the year, the team has provided culturally safe, person-centred support to community members experiencing a range of mental health and wellbeing concerns. Services have included individual counselling, social and emotional wellbeing support, care coordination, advocacy, referrals to specialist mental health services, crisis support and ongoing follow-up to ensure clients remain connected with the care they need. The program works collaboratively with local health professionals, visiting specialists, government agencies and community organisations to provide integrated and coordinated care that meets each person’s unique needs. A key focus of the program has been early intervention and prevention. By providing timely support and encouraging people to seek help early, the team aims to reduce the impact of mental illness and strengthen resilience within individuals, families and the broader community. Mental health education, wellbeing activities and community engagement have also helped reduce stigma surrounding mental health and promote conversations about seeking support. The program continues to prioritise culturally responsive practice by working alongside clients, families and carers to develop care plans that respect individual goals, cultural identity and community connections. This approach has strengthened trust and engagement, enabling more people to access support in a safe and welcoming environment.

Randy Roy, Registered Nurse RHD

Despite the challenges of delivering services within a remote community, including workforce shortages, limited access to specialist services and the significant travel required for some clients to access higher levels of care, the Strong Spirit Strong Mind team has remained committed to ensuring community members receive timely, compassionate and culturally appropriate support. Through strong partnerships with regional mental health providers and visiting specialist services, clients have been supported to navigate the health system and access additional care when required.

Looking ahead, Umoona Tjutagku Health Service remains committed to strengthening mental health and social and emotional wellbeing services for the community. Continued investment in culturally safe care, workforce development, community partnerships and early intervention initiatives will ensure that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have access to high-quality mental health services close to home. By supporting strong minds, strong families and strong communities, the Strong Spirit Strong Mind program continues to make a positive and lasting contribution to the health and wellbeing of our community. UTHS remained committed to improving access to quality mental health care through an integrated, multidisciplinary approach. Throughout the reporting period, monthly visiting Psychiatrist clinics and Psychologist visits every two to three months were provided through the Drug and Alcohol Services (DAS). These specialist services supported comprehensive mental health assessments, medication reviews, treatment planning, and ongoing management for clients experiencing a range of mental health concerns.

In collaboration with the visiting Psychiatrist service, a mental health education and awareness session was also conducted at Coober Pedy Area School. The session provided students and school staff with an opportunity to discuss mental health, emotional wellbeing, and the importance of seeking support early. The initiative promoted mental health awareness, reduced stigma surrounding mental illness, and encouraged young people to access appropriate support services when needed. In addition to specialist clinical services, the Drug and Alcohol Service continued to facilitate regular Men’s and Women’s Wellbeing Programs, providing culturally safe environments that promoted social connection, resilience, emotional wellbeing, and healthy lifestyles. These programs encouraged participants to engage in meaningful activities, strengthen support networks, and access appropriate health services when required. Through the combination of specialist mental health services, school-based education, and community wellbeing programs, UTHS has continued to enhance access to culturally appropriate mental health care while supporting improved social and emotional wellbeing across the Coober Pedy community.

Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD) Program Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD) Program During the 2025–2026 financial year, our Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD) Program continued to support the prevention and management of Acute Rheumatic Fever (ARF) and Rheumatic Heart Disease within our community. The program focused on raising awareness, encouraging early treatment and ensuring people living with RHD received ongoing care and support. Working closely with our Primary Health Care team, schools, families and other health professionals, we promoted the importance of treating sore throats and skin infections early, supported clients to maintain their Bicillin treatment schedules and provided regular follow-up and education. Through community education and collaborative health promotion activities, we continued to increase awareness of RHD and support better long-term health outcomes for Aboriginal people and their families. A school-based health education session was delivered to 26 school-aged children, providing age-appropriate education on the causes, signs and symptoms of Acute Rheumatic Fever and Rheumatic Heart Disease. Students learned how untreated streptococcal sore throats and infected skin sores can progress to ARF and ultimately RHD if left unmanaged. The session reinforced the importance of seeking early medical assessment, completing prescribed antibiotic treatment, maintaining good personal hygiene, and attending regular health checks. Through interactive discussion, students gained a greater understanding of disease prevention and the importance of protecting long-term heart health. Randy Roy, Registered Nurse RHD

On 16 September 2025, Umoona Tjutagku Health Service collaborated with Coober Pedy Area School, Australian Hearing and the Starlight Team to deliver a multidisciplinary

other significant health concerns were identified. The activity provided another valuable opportunity to deliver preventative health education in a relaxed and engaging community environment. The annual Easter Community Program, held on 1 April 2026 at the Coober Pedy Oval, included opportunistic ARF and RHD screening for 39 participants. Health education was delivered through informal discussions, reinforcing the importance of early assessment and treatment of sore throats and skin sores to prevent the development of Acute Rheumatic Fever and Rheumatic Heart Disease. Individual health concerns were addressed, referrals were made where appropriate, and health promotion messages were positively received by community members.

school health program. More than 20 students aged 8 to 13 years participated in opportunistic screening for ARF/ RHD risk factors and hearing concerns. The collaborative approach improved access to preventative health services while strengthening partnerships between local health providers and the school community. The Men’s Pitstop Program, held on 12 November 2025, provided an opportunity to engage approximately 12–15 community members in discussions regarding ARF and RHD prevention. Participants received education on recognising symptoms, preventing skin and throat infections, and the importance of early treatment. Dr Michael Nugent attended the session and encouraged participants to ask questions regarding ARF/RHD and other health concerns, supporting improved community health literacy and engagement. A community Basketball Program was conducted on 20 November 2025, involving 17 children and young people aged 3–16 years. Opportunistic skin assessments were completed during the event, with wound care and dressings provided where clinically indicated. Education was also provided to participants and caregivers regarding skin hygiene, early treatment of skin infections, and the importance of preventing complications associated with ARF. On 4 March 2026, a Kids’ Movie Night attracted 19 children aged 7–14 years. Opportunistic skin assessments were undertaken, with wound dressings completed as required. No additional symptoms suggestive of ARF or

Health promotion activities continued throughout the year during weekly Men’s and Women’s Programs, where education, routine health reviews and opportunistic assessments formed part of ongoing service delivery. These sessions provided a culturally safe environment to reinforce preventative health messages, encourage early presentation for assessment, and support clients requiring ongoing followup. The Breakfast Program, conducted daily by UTHS, also provided opportunities for routine health reviews and opportunistic assessments for attendees. Staff continued to monitor participants’ wellbeing, provide health education and facilitate referral to clinical services where required. To further support infection prevention, Drug and Alcohol Services (DAS) continued to provide shower facilities for community members accessing the service. Clients were encouraged to utilise these facilities to promote personal hygiene, reduce the risk of skin infections and support broader health and wellbeing outcomes. Collectively, these initiatives demonstrate UTHS’s ongoing commitment to reducing the incidence of Acute Rheumatic Fever and Rheumatic Heart Disease through culturally appropriate prevention strategies, early detection, community education and collaborative partnerships.

Organisational Chart UTHSAC BOARD

CEO

Executive Assistant/ Company Secretary

Director Business Services

Clinic Manager

DAS Manager

Practice Manager

Finance Manager/ Accreditation Ofﬁcer

Senior Accountant

Medical Receptionist

Health Promotions Ofﬁcer

Registered Nurse

Aged Care Coordinator

Social Worker SEWB/BTH

DAS Receptionist

IT & Communicare Support Ofﬁcer

Accountant

Assistant Medical Receptionist

Registered Nurse

Senior AHW

Aged Care Connector

Social Worker NIAS

Senior AHW

Cleaner

Facilities Ofﬁcer

Aboriginal Health Practitioner

Registered Nurse

Health Promotions Ofﬁcer

NDIS Remote Community Coordinator

Social Worker AOD

Hygiene Worker

Program Coordinator/ Enhanced Syphilis

Registered Nurse

Psychiatrist

Aboriginal Health Worker

Transport Ofﬁcer

Aboriginal Health Worker

Aboriginal Health Practitioner

Psychologist

Substance Misuse (Dunjiba)

Receptionist

Junior Cancer Support Ofﬁcer

Registered Nurse Chronic Disease

Trainee AHW

Program Coordinator

Trainee AHW

Mental Health RN

Service Members

Acknowledgement of Funding Bodies

UTHSAC Staff Academic Qualifications Administration Staff

Priscilla Larkins Chief Executive Officer

• Post Graduate Certificatein Remote Health Management • Post Grad certificate in Health (Diabetes Management and education) • Bachelor of Nursing • Certificate in Finance for the non-financial manager • Management Systems Auditing • Demystifying ISO 9001:2008 • Introduction to Public Health Practice and Research • Diploma in Leadership & Management • Psychology (current) Adult and children

Dilshan Perera Director-Business Services

• Master of Business Administration • Master of Arts / International Relations (Human Rights and International Law)

• Post Grad Cert. in Human Resources Management • Post Grad Cert in Health Services Management (Current) • Advanced Diploma: Management • PRINCE 11 Practitioner (Diploma Equivalent): Project Management

• Diploma of Practice Management • Diploma in Human Resources Management • Diploma of Business (Governance) • Lead Auditor: ISO 19011:2018 – Auditing Management Systems • ISO 19011:2018 – Leading Audit Teams • ISO 9001:2015 – Auditing Quality Management Systems

• ISO 14001:2015 – Auditing Environmental Management Systems • ISO 45001:2018 – Auditing Occupational Health & Safety Management Systems • Persuasive Leadership development (The Wharton college)

Jayden Muller Finance Manager/ Accreditation Officer • Bachelor of Commerce Major in Finance and Minor in Economics • Diploma of Business • Certificate IV in Financial Administration

Dhananjani Bandara Senior Accountant

• Bachelor of Business Administration Degree (Specialized in Accounting & Finance) • Associate Member (CPA Australia) • Certified Business Accountant, Sri Lanka • Certificate in MYOB, XERO, QuickBooks, and Sage accounting system

Prabhavi Kothalawala Accountant

Geethanjana Yatawara

• Master of Accounting

IT & Communicare Support Officer

• Bachelor of Science (Industrial Management & Statistics) • Professional Qualification in Human Resource Management (PQHRM) • Associate Member (CPA Australia) • Associate Member (IPA Australia) • Member (IFA Australia)

• Postgraduate Diploma in Business Information Systems • BSc (Hons) Cyber Security • CEHv11 (Certified Ethical Hacker) • Associate Member (ACS)

Imedha Gaspe Facilities Officer

• MSc in Information Technology (Network Specialization) • BSc in Management Information Systems • Advanced Diploma in Mechatronics • Advanced Diploma in Computer Based Information Systems

Diyanath Gunarathne Cleaner

•Diploma in Pattern Design

• Diploma in Computer System Design • Certificate IV in Work Health and Safety (Current)

• Certificate IV in Leadership and Management (Current)

Clinic Staff

Stacy Kambouris

Laura Larkins

Primary and Community Healthcare Consultant

Clinic Manager

• Bachelor of Nursing • Quality Assessor NSQHS • Quality Consultant

• Bachelor of Nursing (Current) • Diploma in Practice Management • Diploma in Management

Chathun Peiris Practice Manager

• Doctorof Medicine (MD) • Certificate IV Health Care (In progress)

Damien Riessen

Health Promotions Officer • Certificate III in Business Administration • Certificate III in Aboriginal Health • Diploma in Graphic Design (Torrens University, Australia)

Josie Warrior

Aboriginal Health Practitioner • Certificate II in Hospitality • Certificate IV in Aboriginal Primary Health Care

Carmel Agrazada

• Certificate IV in Aged Care • Certificate IV in Home and Community Care • Diploma of Management

• Graduate Certificate of Advanced Nursing

Registered Nurse (FIFO) • Bachelor ofNursing

Geraldine Hanan

Chronic Disease Nurse (FIFO)

Lucy McInerney Registered Nurse(Cancer Support) • Bachelor of Nursing

Raji Mathew

Sharon Kezia

• Bachelor of Nursing

Registered Nurse/Infection Control and Child and Women’s Health

Registered Nurse/Immunisation and Ageing and Antenatal

Carryl Gabriel

Admin Support Officer

Jibi Job Registered Nurse (ITC) • Bachelor of Nursing

Glenys Dodd

Senior Aboriginal Health Practitioner

Jonte Larkins

Aboriginal Health Worker • Certificate III in Primary Health

Angelika Papamanos Program Coordinator

• Diploma of Business Marketing (Torrens University, Australia) • Certificate III in Small Business and Entrepreneurship

Shanto Kuriakose

Junior Cancer Support Officer • Diploma of Nursing

• International TESOL Certificate

Mirjana Dukarich

Medical Receptionist • Certificate III in Primary Health Diploma of Children Services (Early Childhood Education and Care) • Certificate III in children’s services • Certificate IV in Education support • Diploma of Practice Management

Aiden Ackland

Aboriginal Health Practitioner (ITC) • Certificate III in Primary Health • Certificate IV in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Primary Health Care. • Certificate IV in Screen and Media. • Bachelor of Nursing (Current)

Kushendra De Silva

Assistant Medical Receptionist • Chc33015 CertificateIII - IndividualSupport • Diploma of Science (Griffith University)

Misho Miller

Aboriginal Health Worker •Certificate III in Aboriginal Primary Health Care

Kym Lebois Aboriginal Health Worker

• Certificate III in Primary Health

Jaquan Lebois

Aboriginal Health Worker

Jeewana Perera

Brittany Yates

Aboriginal Health Worker

Transport Officer

• Certificate III in Aboriginal Primary Health Care (In progress)

• Diploma in Automotive Management • Diploma in Marine Engineering

Tanola Treloar

Trainee Aboriginal Health Worker

Drug & Alcohol Services Staff Thilina Rathnamala DAS Manager

• Bachelor in Ayurveda Medicine and Surgery • Diploma of Community Services Specialising in Case Management

• Diploma in Leadership and Management • Certificate IV in mental Health • Certificate III in Aged Care and Disability • Certificate IV in AOD • Certificate IV in Suicide Prevention

Leel Hasitha SEWB Worker

• Masters of Information Technology • Bachelors of Business Administration • Diploma of Community Services • Certificate IV in AOD • Certificate IV in Mental Health • Mental Health First Aid (Accredited) • Suicide Prevention • ASIST – Applied Suicide Intervention • Hearing Voices that are Distressing – Adelaide University • Trauma-Informed Care and Practice

Diluja Wijayathilaka

NDIS Remote Community Coordinator

Anjana Welisarage

Aged Care Coordinator • Diploma of Nursing • Certificate III Ageing Support • Certificate IV Ageing Support

• Master of Accounting and Business Administration • Bachelor of Science major in Chemistry and Biology • Professional Qualification in Human Resource Management • Diploma of Information and Communication Technology • Certificates III and IV in Human Resource Management

Varuni Silva

Aged Care Connector • Bachelor of Science - The Open University of Sri Lanka • Certificate III in Individual Support • Certificate IV in AOD (Nunku) • Certificate IV in Ageing Support (Current)

Precella Sumner

Aboriginal Health Worker • Certificate IV in counselling • Certificate IV in AOD (Current)

Gnanika Chandrasena NIAS Social Worker

• Masterof Social Work(UNISA) • Bachelor of Nursing Science with Honours • Diploma in Nursing • Certificate IV in AOD (Open College) • Certificate IV in Suicide Prevention • Post Graduate Diploma Public Health in Epidemiology • Diploma in Counselling (current) • Certificate IV in AOD (NUNK) • Certificate III in Aged Care and Disability • Accredited Social Worker (AASW) • Accredited Mental Health Social Worker (AASW)

Warunika Warusahannadige AOD Worker • Certificate III in Individual Support • Diploma of Community Services • Bachelor of Human and Community Services • Certificate IV in Alcohol and Other Drugs (Current) • Certificate IV in Suicide Prevention

Heshani Fernando

AOD Community Worker • Diploma of HealthScience • Bachelor of Applied Social Science (Community Services) • Alcohol and Other Drugs Skill Set • Certificate IV in Alcohol and Other Drugs (Current)

Heather Brownlee RDWA FIFO Psychiatrist

Michael Liptsey

Hygiene Worker & Aboriginal Health Worker • Certificate III in Primary Health • Certificate IV in Primary Health • Certificate III in Community Services. • Certificate IV in AOD (Current)

Ana Tu

RDWA FIFO Psychologist

Randy Roy

Registered Nurse RHD • Bachelor of Nursing

Taihlor Yates

Trainee Aboriginal Health Worker • Certificate IV in AOD (Current)

Samuel O’Reilly

Trainee Health Worker • Certificate III in PrimaryHealth (Current) • Certificate IV in AOD (Current) • Certificate IV in Fitness

Christiana Goodwin

Trainee Aboriginal Health Worker • Certificate III in Aboriginal Primary Health Care (In progress)

Susan McArthur Receptionist

Damien Marlowe Drug and Alcohol Health Worker

All Statistics Clients Seen

Aboriginal Clients

Non-Aboriginal Clients

Not Stated

DAS

19,192

19009

176

Clinic

26,928

25,387

1,470

H4L

Under 10

Episodes of Care

46,138

2,198

10-15 years

1,277

16-20 years

1,852

20,432 Aboriginal Male

3,744

21-30 years

Aboriginal Female

9,307

31-40 years

27,679

40+ years

5,000

10,000

15,000

20,000

25,000

30,000

25,715

Umoona Tjutagku Health Service Aboriginal Corporation

PO Box 166, Lot 8, Umoona Road, Coober Pedy SA 5723

Phone: 08 8672 5255 Fax: 08 8672 3349 Website: www.uths.com.au

Acknowledgement of Country

We acknowledge the AntakirinjaMatu-Yankunytjatjara people as the Traditional Owners and Custodians of the lands and waters where we live and work. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging.