Speaker Bios
Shirley Slann is a representative of the Western Queensland Health Network and is a Rural and Remote Resource Worker, employed by North Queensland Domestic Violence Resource Service. She is based in Mount Isa and provides domestic and family violence community education, resources, support and assistance with domestic violence protection orders and variations. She travels to communities such as Dajarra, Boulia, Camooweal, Cloncurry, Mornington Island, Doomadgee, Normanton, and Burketown. She has been in her position for over four years. Some of the other committees she represent are: Indigenous Representative – WESNET (Women’s Services Network), Member - Indigenous Reference Group – Queensland Centre for the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence, Member – Domestic Violence Court Assistance Network (DVCAN) and Secretary – Nawamba House Management Committee – Mount Isa. Through her involvement in the QWHN, Shirley wants to be an advocate for Indigenous women and Non Indigenous women living in rural and remote communities, ensuring that their voices are being heard and that the many issues facing them are being addressed. She wants to assist Indigenous communities to become empowered to address their own issues and to work at their own local responses. Shirley has learnt that women and children living in Rural & Remote Areas don’t have the same opportunities as women living in coastal towns. And she believes that every woman, regardless of her geographical location, should not have to settle for second best in regards to health. Statistics show that Indigenous women are doubly isolated and disadvantaged. There are many issues facing Indigenous women’s health and wellbeing that need to be addressed to bring it up to a national standard. Shirley would like to see an end to the violence that is destroying many communities and families.
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