Friday September 11, 2026
Women from across the community came together yesterday to celebrate Women’s Health Week. The event was hosted by Eastern Health Aboriginal Health Team in collaboration with OONAH , Aboriginal Health and Community Services.
Held at Healesville Football Club, which generously provided the event space, the day offered a welcoming and culturally safe environment for First Nations women and their allies to connect learn and prioritise their wellbeing.
The event featured a range of activities focused on self-care, creativity and connection, including jewellery making, tea leaf reading, facials, massages, nail painting and hairdressing services. Attendees also enjoyed refreshments from a coffee van, visited information stalls from Eastern Health Dietitians and OONAH, and received gifts bags.
Manager, Aboriginal Health Team, Susan McDonald, said the annual event continues to be an important opportunity to bring people together.
“This is a safe space to have a good time, have a yarn and start the conversation about women’s health”
“It’s about creating a sense of community and connection. These events give women an opportunity to come together, support one another and feel comfortable talking about their health and wellbeing”
Among the vendors was Billie, founder of Yilam Made who led jewellery making workshops throughout the day. Having attended previous Women’s Health Week celebrations as a visitor, Billie was excited to return this year in a new role.
“I love being able to teach people how to make their own jewellery and give them something they can take home and keep.”
For Billie these events hold a particularly personal significance.
“It means everything, I’ve been through a lot recently and Eastern Health and OONAH have been a big help for me. For me to be able to be here and do this is important.”
Billy emphasised that the event fostered a strong sense of belonging.
“There’s ease, belonging and community here, everyone is helpful and open about women’s health. It’s a good opportunity to catch up with friends.”
