Ardi Muckan
First Nations Prison Health Worker
How long have you been with WBHHS?
1 year 6 months
How do you describe what you do?
Very hectic and full on. Mindful being aware of full time safety and security, being alert constantly got to watch your behind most of the time. Examining and attempting to improve the holistic health and welfare of Indigenous men in prison through relevant health programs, and to support their progresses and well-being when released, for the betterment of family and community connection. Undertaking this course of action requires cultural support and coordination of resources, and meeting the health and wellbeing needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander prisoners whilst in custody, including their transition back to the general community upon release, to give them the best chance of staying well in their community. Developing and carrying out yarnin group sessions that includes education, intervention, and promotion activities.
What’s best about your job?
Knowing that you have a supportive and competent Health team and working environment to do my job with confidence and appropriately.
What was your path into health care?
*Assisting Indigenous River Bed campers with the only clothes on their body [a health light switch on].
*Seeing fellow Indigenous peoples and family members dying from degenerative health conditions and potential’ Deaths in Custody” [Again another health light switch on].
*Obtaining health certificates and a health-related degree – [To support the relevant job].
What does being part of a team mean to you?
Working in a prison environment can be challenging, but it is how you interact with each other and the concerns that arises. Working together without ill judgements and preconceived notions will eventually lead to a cooperatively positive outcome. As the initially appointed one and only First Nation’s Prison Health Worker within the Qld Health administration Wide Bay, I was able to provide a cultural lens in the development of Health programs and processes that was taken on board by both players. In due course, it promoted and supported post Indigenous inmates’ rehabilitation and connections with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community, Elders and key services to develop and strengthen collaborative partnerships and referral pathways with Indigenous Community Controlled Health Services and Non-government organisations.
When you’re not at work, you are…
Recuperating, sunbathing with patches and enjoying freedom from prison.
What do you enjoy about living in Wide Bay?
Sea water and seafood
Tell us a fun fact about you.
Being humorous either wet or dry quips at spur of the moment times.
What song are you listening to most right now?
Anything black & white folks country