Men’s group in Orange take initiative

31 March 2009

A group of 30 Aboriginal men in Orange have embarked on a health initiative that
will help close the gap in life expectancy.

Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Paul Lynch said the NSW Government had provided
$10,000 to the Coonabahloo Gibir or Men of Canobolas, to establish an action
plan for health, education and employment.

"These men are leading the way for men's health in their community and have the
support of the Greater Western Area Health Service and the Orange Aboriginal
Medical Service," Mr Lynch said.

"The health program will take 12 weeks, during which time the participants will
receive instruction in the benefits of appropriate diet and exercise," he said.

An evaluation of their health will be conducted before and after the program," Mr
Lynch said.

"At the completion of the program, a self-management plan will be introduced by
the dietician and personal trainer before another evaluation is conducted," he
said.

President of the Men's Group, Jamie Newman, said: "By setting ourselves up
properly with the support of the NSW Government, we were able to secure joint
support of the Aboriginal Medical Service and the local health service."

"We can see that more men are committed to change in the community," Mr
Newman said.

"Aboriginal women are the backbone of Aboriginal communities but men need to
show leadership to enhance what these women are doing," he said.

MEDIA CONTACT: Andrew Williams 0408 602 936

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