In 2010, ASHM in partnership with NACCHO, AIDA and NCHECR (now the Kirby Institute), held the first showcase of sexual health initiatives specifically designed for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander population groups.

What resulted was a mix of retrospective works, projects in implementation and projects in development providing a snapshot of where the sector had been, where it was in 2010 and where it was going.

 

From the poignancy of the AIDS Quilts to the beautiful condom dresses, from research projects to pieces of art, individuals and organisations shared their work, ideas and creativity.

 

Some of the comments people made after viewing the Ngarra 2010 showcase how much the viewers appreciated the opportunity to see what was being done in other areas of Australia and were inspired by it:

 

"Impressive exhibition"

Higher rates of diagnosis of sexually transmitted infections and blood borne viruses still occur among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people than among non-indigenous people indicating that there is still much work to do.

Ngarra 2011 continues shining a light on the sector, highlighting the work of individuals and organisations from round Australia and showcasing the diversity and creativity of programs focusing on the sexual and reproductive health of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander population groups.