Bluearth Foundation has opened applications for its 2017 scholarships to Perth-based Aboriginal women.

The two scholarships on offer are a partnership with the WA Department of Sport and Recreation and Yok Djakoorliny, a health and wellbeing group for Noongar and other Aboriginal women and their friends.

Scholarships holders will receive accredited Certificate III and IV training, mentoring and support and student registration to Physical Activity Australia to enable them to become fitness leaders for their community.

“This scholarship program has been established to empower Aboriginal women to take action to address growing levels of chronic disease in the community. The scholarships also recognise the important role women already play in improving community health and wellbeing,” Ms Wendy Gillett, Bluearth CEO, said.

“With chronic disease levels on the rise and emerging evidence that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children are eight times more likely to develop type 2 diabetes (traditionally considered an adult disorder it is critical to get our mob moving and improving our health “ said Jenni Curtis founding member of Yok Djakoorliny.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women have poorer health than non-Indigenous women; they have higher levels of risk factors, earlier onset of disease and lower survival rates.¹ Regular, moderate-vigorous intensity exercise is a key strategy in preventing diseases such as cardiovascular disease and type II diabetes; diseases that are much more prevalent in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people than in other Australians.

“Working with Aboriginal women who are passionate about supporting their sisters to get fit and healthy is both an honour and a joy,” Wendy said.

For more information about the Scholarships or to apply, go to:
Scholarship Application (pdf).

North Metropolitan TAFE Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander support services:
Koolark Brochure (pdf).

Media queries / interview opportunities:
Julie Jacobs, PR Coordinator: 0421 700 794

^{1. Summary of Indigenous women’s health: www.healthinfonet.ecu.edu.au}