Daily news digest March 21
Key Indigenous news stories for today include a major coronial finding regarding healthcare inequity and urgent evacuations due to a severe cyclone in the Northern Territory.
National News
Coroner Findings on Health Inequity:
A deputy State coroner found that a rural doctor missed a critical call that could have prevented the death of an Indigenous woman, Ms Brown, from a ruptured spleen. The coroner recommended a review of procedures in small rural centres and continuous recording of patient notes to address systemic “Indigenous health inequity”.
Tropical Cyclone Narelle:
Hundreds of residents from the Gulf of Carpentaria, including Groote Eylandt and Numbulwar, have been evacuated as Category 4 Cyclone Narelle approaches the coast with wind gusts up to 200km/h. Major flood warnings are in place for the Katherine River.
Anti-Discrimination March:
Thousands are expected to march in Sydney today to mark the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, calling for an end to disproportionate incarceration and deaths in custody.
Sea Country Protected Area:
The first Sea Country Indigenous Protected Area (IPA) has been established in the south-west Kimberley region, aimed at preserving traditional lands and sea through First Nations-led management.
Community & Culture
No Olympics on Stolen Land:
A community protest and festival is being held at Barrambin (Victoria Park) in Brisbane to oppose the destruction of green space for the 2032 Olympic Games, featuring performances by First Nations artists.
BAMM Market:
The Bundanon Artists & Makers Market in Illaroo, NSW, is showcasing work from First Nations artists, including traditional weaving, ceramics, and textiles.
New Music:
Ngarrindjeri producer and artist trials has released two new singles, “whistle w…” and “hendle,” ahead of a debut solo project.
Flora Performance:
The visionary dance production Flora concludes its run at Melbourne’s Regent Theatre today before moving to Sydney next month.
