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Talk to your GP says Aunty Merle

Aunty Merle Barba is an Elder who has lived in Mackay her whole life. 

She made the choice to get vaccinated to protect herself, her family and community. 

“I made the choice because I feel that at my age, I need to be protected, and I also need to protect my family and my community,” Aunty Merle said. 

“That’s why we all have to have this COVID (vaccination). 

“You know, it’s important to get the COVID vaccination but you’ve got to make your own choice,” she said. 

Aunty Merle said that once the borders open, the virus will be everywhere and then you will need the jab because COVID-19 could come to you from any direction. 

“Because you don’t know when you’re going shopping who’s in there that may have COVID,” she said.  

“I have a big family, so I’ve got to be very careful cause they go out and mix with people and then they come to my place.  

“That’s why it’s important that I got the COVID vaccine.”  

Aunty Merle said that you should consult with your GP if you are still unsure about the jab. 

“I’d encourage them all to—if they have any fear, go to their local GP and they will give you advice.  

“Don’t listen to outside voices.  

“Go to your GP cause you’ve trusted them with your medication before this so just trust your GP to give you the right answers and to erase those concerns.” 

She said that she was looking forward to seeing family again soon once vaccination milestones had been reached. 

“I’m looking forward to family gatherings again because Indigenous people love to be together, love to yarn together, and have fun together.” 

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We acknowledge the traditional custodians of the land and sea where we live and work, and pay our respects to Elders past, present and future.

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