Ms Weymouth is an Aboriginal Health Worker within the Murrumbidgee Local Health District and is based in Leeton.

While her role entails plenty, one her favourite parts of each week is running and co-ordinating the Aunty Jean's program.

This initiative was piloted in the Illawarra in 2004, named after the late Elder Aunty Jean Morris, who was dedicated to promoting health, wellbeing and connection to culture within her community.

The success of this initiative led to it being expanded across the state, including here in Leeton.

Every Thursday members of Leeton shire's Indigenous community get together to participate, seek support, but also and, perhaps most importantly, have fun.

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"The Aunty Jean's program is community-oriented to support Aboriginal people with/or at risk of chronic illness," Ms Weymouth said.

"The program combines health promotion, health assessment, health education, healthy cooking/eating, exercise and fun activities to empower participants.

"It's a program I am so passionate about and one I love delivering. It's helping people's lives and making a difference."

The inclusive initiative is supported by a wide-range of health practitioners who regularly head along to support the day each week.

Aboriginal health workers, diabetes educators, physiotherapists, dietitians, occupational therapists and respiratory services staff are just some of the health professionals who have been part of the day in Leeton in the past.

Guest speakers have also visited from NSW Ambulance, Wiradjuri Home Care, Griffith Aboriginal Medical Service and more.

"I love being able to provide a safe space for my community to come to and feel comfortable, but it also allows me to check in on them and their health and wellbeing, which is so important," Ms Weymouth said.

"I feel like through this program we are making a difference and that's a really nice feeling to have.

"We welcome any new faces to come along to the program. We want to make sure we are continuing to build it up here in Leeton."

The Aunty Jean's program is held every Thursday, excluding school holidays, from noon to 4pm at the daycare building directly behind Leeton District Hospital.

For more information about the program or to seek health support, contact Ms Weymouth on 6953 1187 or 0436 686 961.

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