Recently, First Nations students from Heatley Secondary College participated in a six-day healthcare immersion tour designed to provide valuable exposure to regional and rural healthcare services, remote communities, and culturally informed on-Country learning experiences.
Travelling west from Townsville through Charters Towers, Hughenden, Winton, and Longreach, students explored a range of healthcare settings before taking part in a cultural immersion program at Gracevale Stationon Iningai Country in Turraburra.
During their time on Country, students gained a deeper understanding of the history of the Iningai Nation, the impact of colonial settlement across the region, and the cultural significance of Turraburra today. They visited important cultural sites, including the Dinosaur Pathway, the Sacred Waterhole rehabilitation project, and the Seven Sisters Story Wall. Students also participated in traditional bush medicine activities and learned about native lemongrass harvesting, providing a meaningful connection to Country and First Nations knowledge systems.
The Gateway to Industry Schools Program – Health, appreciates the generous financial support of On Country and Health Workforce Queensland that enabled the students to participate in this life-changing experience.
The success of the tour was also made possible through the extraordinary generosity of the regional communities along the journey. Healthcare providers generously donated their time to host tours of their facilities and share insights into careers in health. Local attractions provided complimentary entry, businesses offered discounted meals, and Winton Shire Council kindly provided complimentary accommodation for the group’s stay in Winton.
Truly an amazing experience for our Townsville students.
