The South Sydney Rabbitohs, a prominent team in the National Rugby League (NRL), have established a partnership with the national preventive health initiative, Deadly Choices. This collaboration is part of a broader strategy aimed at safeguarding the future health of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities throughout New South Wales (NSW). The introduction of the Rabbitohs-Deadly Choices health check shirt incentives today signifies a notable transition towards a more cohesive approach to preventive health measures. Leveraging Australia’s most renowned in-community sporting brand, this initiative is poised to make a genuine impact in areas where it is most needed.
Blake Solly, CEO of the Rabbitohs, highlighted the extensive efforts made by both the South Sydney Rabbitohs and Souths Cares to engage with regional communities through various initiatives such as playing games outside of Sydney and delivering programs nationwide, particularly in the health sector.
He emphasized the commendable work done by Deadly Choices in promoting health checks within remote and regional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, stating that it’s a natural alignment for the organizations to collaborate.
Solly expressed anticipation for the Rabbitohs and Souths Cares to join forces with Deadly Choices to increase health assessments and enhance the well-being of numerous Australians.
As part of this collaboration, Rabbitohs Deadly Choices health check shirts will be provided to individuals who undergo an annual health assessment at participating Community Controlled Health Service clinics across New South Wales.
This partnership is set to positively impact communities across the state, with related Aboriginal Health Services including Bulgarr Ngaru (northern NSW), Yerin (Central Coast), Bourke, Wellington (WACHS), Greater Western Aboriginal Health Services (GWAHS), Durri (Kempsey – Nambucca), Biripi (Taree-Purfleet), Maari Ma (far Western NSW), and Central and Eastern PHN.
Scott Monaghan, CEO of Bulgarr Ngaru, expressed confidence that the new Rabbitohs merchandise will contribute to increasing future health check bookings throughout NSW.
He confirmed the success of their health services in maximizing 715 Health Check bookings through different Deadly Choices campaigns across the Bulgarr Ngaru region.
Monaghan emphasized the potential major benefits of incorporating the Rabbitohs into promotional efforts, which he believes will enhance the health outcomes of communities in New South Wales and beyond.
He highlighted Deadly Choices as a prime example of an initiative crafted by and for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
“The widespread popularity of the Rabbitohs, particularly throughout New South Wales, is undeniable, so we anticipate that community members of all ages will seize this excellent opportunity to receive a Rabbitohs Deadly Choices incentive.”
The formalized collaboration between Rabbitohs and Deadly Choices represents a milestone in the 14-year history of Deadly Choices, overseen by the Institute for Urban Indigenous Health (IUIH).
Adrian Carson, CEO of IUIH, regards Deadly Choices as a perfect complement to Rabbitoh’s existing community engagement efforts, serving a crucial role in promoting positive health outcomes for communities.
“Through this partnership, the primary objective of Deadly Choices to encourage individuals to schedule a health check can only benefit from the extensive reach of the Rabbitohs. Their involvement will enhance an already comprehensive community engagement strategy, fostering a collective and holistic approach to the well-being and welfare of our people throughout New South Wales,” affirmed Carson.
Deadly Choices is committed to informing all members of our community about the physical and emotional advantages of maintaining healthy and active lifestyles, which includes promoting regular health checks as an integral component of a comprehensive health strategy.
“We believe that health checks are essential for individuals of all ages, from children to teenagers, parents, grandparents, and elders. Therefore, we enthusiastically welcome the Rabbitohs as a significant collaborative partner in encouraging our community members to prioritize their health, thus reducing the risk of chronic illnesses among individuals in communities across New South Wales.”
