Mark Da Silva, Work health and safety director
What does reconciliation mean to you?
“Reconciliation means Australians coming together, to bring truth-telling and justice to light. It is a journey of learning, understanding country and culture, as well as healing time to actively listen to ensure Indigenous and First Nations people are being heard and continue so.
How do you work towards achieving this in your department?
“Part of my journey at Barwon Health for reconciliation has been representation, acknowledgement and inclusion. My first interaction at Barwon Health was with the Aboriginal Health Unit to represent and support indigenous culture by wearing an indigenous lapel and lanyard. The next was an invite to the work health and safety (WHS) team meeting to learn about the team and what they do. Lastly, in my service to Barwon Health, I focus on an acknowledgement of country at the meetings I chair or attend to ensure I pay my respects to the land in which we live, Wadawurrung Country, and how grateful I am to be part of it.”