Senior Aboriginal leader Dr Galarrwuy Yunupingu rolls up sleeve for Covid jab

The most senior leader in the Gumatj clan has rolled-up his sleeve for the Covid-19 jab.

THE most senior leader in the Gumatj clan has rolled-up his sleeve for the Covid-19 vaccination.

Yothu Yindi Foundation chairman Dr Galarrwuy Yunupingu made the decision in an effort to protect his remote Yolngu community that live in northeast Arnhem Land.

Miwatj Aboriginal Health doctor Wendy Page admitted the slow vaccination uptake was complicated.

“It comes down to good information and strong leaders who care about our community showing the way. Galarrwuy is a true leader,” Dr Page said.

Galarrwuy’s decision to get vaccinated quickly spread around town with key organisations hoping it would prompt others in the community to get the vital vaccine.

Senior leader Dr Galarrwuy Yunupingu after receiving his first Covid-19 vaccination. Picture: Amanda Parkinson

Gunyangara’s vaccination rates are just over 40 per cent as the community wrestles with a range of complicating factors.

However, Yothu Yindi Foundation chief executive Denise Bowden said accessing information in language for many of the Territory’s remote communities had contributed to slow uptake.

“The safety of the biosecurity bubble as well as complicating factors like pre-existing health conditions and misinformation have contributed to some of the low rates seen in the community,” Ms Bowden said.

“Getting the vaccine is really important for our families and communities in the remote regions as there is a severe shortage in access to healthcare already.

“We’ve been so fortunate in Gunyangara to have great information from the trusted medical team at Miwatj clinic who have supported Galarrwuy’s decision.”