Health and Wellbeing Queensland Supports Murri Carnival to Promote Health in First Nations Communities
Health and Wellbeing Queensland (HWQld) joined the Murri Rugby League Carnival from 19–27 September to champion the message that everyone has the right to good health.
Sponsored by HWQld, the Department of Sport, Racing and Olympic and Paralympic Games, and the Department of Justice, the smoke, drug, alcohol, and sugar-free carnival uses rugby league’s popularity to promote health and education among young First Nations people.
The event is smoke, drug, alcohol, and sugar free, with mandatory health checks for all players, underscoring its strong commitment to fostering healthy behaviours.
Dr. Robyn Littlewood, Chief Executive of Health and Wellbeing Queensland said, ‘The Murri Carnival is not only a great sporting event, but it promotes healthy behaviours and early access to primary health care in First Nations communities across Queensland. HWQld has proudly sponsored the event since 2022, reinforcing its commitment to supporting healthy communities.’
She added, ‘This event plays a critical role in encouraging young First Nations Queenslanders to be active and healthy from an early age, which is essential to addressing chronic disease risk factors.’
The Queensland Government hosted a stall at the festival, where HWQld offered advice on how to fuel properly for sport, including what to eat and drink before and after a game.
The Department of Justice promoted their Forget the Bet. Enjoy the Game campaign and provided counselling, support, and advice for gambling harm.
Meanwhile, the Department of Sport, Racing and Olympic and Paralympic Games in partnership with the Queensland Academy of Sport, ran YouFor2032 activities.
Visitors at the carnival also received blood pressure and health checks from My Health For Life, reinforcing the importance of wellbeing.
As a proud supporter, HWQld continues to promote healthy lifestyles and wellbeing for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples across Queensland.
