By Michael Doran
Closing the health gap between indigenous and non-indigenous Australians is a key priority for Eastern Health and on Sunday 3 March it’s annual sports day will showcase some of the best Aboriginal sporting talent in Melbourne’s east.
Now in its sixth year, the ‘Closing the Gap Family Sports Day’ is a key part of Eastern Health’s commitment to closing the gap and will bring together a range of the groups health professionals to take on the local community in netball and football.
In his day job, John Ferraro is Executive Director Clinical Operations with Eastern Health but his passion is now directed towards coaching the Eastern Health football team.
“This event has grown every year and is a real highlight for Eastern Health, with our staff and the local community coming together,” he said. “We’ve had a really good response from our staff and the community to participate in the netball and football matches.”
The games are said to be ‘friendly encounters’ but Mr Ferraro said they are certainly competitive and always worth watching.
“I’m very proud to be involved and to be leading the Eastern Health football team. The community team is always full of talent, so we are looking forward to seeing some really exciting sports action.
“The aim is to raise awareness about closing the health gap between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and the non-indigenous community and it’s a fantastic family day out. We want to encourage everyone to come along and cheer the teams on.”
There will be more to do than watch football and netball with activities such as Aboriginal dance, interactive information stands, face painting, a petting zoo, jumping castle, running races, giveaways, show bags and more.
It will be held at the Don Road Sporting Complex in Healesville from 9.30am to 3.30pm
