On 5 December 2018, UQ launched its first Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP). The RAP outlines UQ’s commitment to practical actions and deliverables that strengthen and build relationships, respect, and opportunities between Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander and non-Indigenous peoples.
The Launch Ceremony took place in the Great Court at St Lucia and included speeches by distinguished alumni including renowned artist, Kev Carmody.
As part of the celebrations, the School of Veterinary Science was invited to host a stand in the Reconciliation Camp to showcase the School’s partnership with the Cherbourg Aboriginal Shire Council, Animal Management in Rural and Remote Indigenous Communities (AMRRIC) and the Darling Downs Public Health Unit to deliver an annual, local, voluntary and free dog and cat veterinary neuter service for the residents of Cherbourg.
Since 2016, final year veterinary students have had the opportunity to participate in the animal management program through a capstone clinical elective, undertaken immediately prior to graduation. Students plan and set up a field veterinary hospital, assist with the neuter clinic and other clinical activities and participate in a range of community activities including the delivery of lessons in the local school. Student feedback regarding the elective is universally positive. Thanks must also go to Boehringer-Ingelheim who have supported the programme since its inception.
The stand entitled ‘Partnering for Pets and People’ was very colourful and we even offered free face-painting. The morning was a great success with visits from the Vice-Chancellor Professor Peter Høj and the Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Indigenous Engagement) Professor Bronwyn Fredericks, plus a great many new connections. We feel incredibly privileged to be a part of this partnership.