ABORIGINAL and Torres Strait Islander people in Sunraysia no longer have to book an appointment to get vaccinated – at one Mildura vaccination hub, they can walk in and get their jab within minutes.
Mallee District Aboriginal Services (MDAS) announced the change to vaccination services on Thursday, triggered by “rapidly increasing COVID-19 numbers in the local Aboriginal community”.
The arrangement will be in place at the MDAS Orange Avenue COVID-19 vaccination clinic until further notice.
With cases on the rise in Mildura and Dareton, MDAS chief executive Jacki Turfrey encouraged Indigenous people to get tested and vaccinated as soon as possible.
“We care about our community and care about stopping the spread of COVID-19 in our communities,” Ms Turfrey said.
“Please get tested today and book for a vaccine.
“If you have tested positive to COVID-19, please isolate to protect your loved ones and families. Please support those that need to isolate by showing love and compassion.
“If you don’t have anywhere to self-isolate, please phone MDAS on 5018 4100.
“This virus isn’t something that people spread intentionally; it is something that happens and sometimes people are unaware they are spreading it to others.
“Let’s show support and kindness rather than discriminating.”
The MDAS vaccine clinic is open at the old CFA building on Orange Avenue Monday-Friday during business hours.
While it now offers a walk-in service for Aboriginal people, appointments are available for everyone. To book, call 1800 183 593 or email covidvaccineclinic@mdas.org.au.
