The hydrotherapy program is called Bathu Marrung, which means ‘good water’. The program gives Aboriginal people access to the Port Macquarie Base Hospital specialist hydrotherapy facilities. The Bathu Marrung program is run by a physiotherapist and is designed to be fun and tailored to the health needs of participants. Each participant receives a hydrotherapy kit with bag, towel and water bottle.

Port Macquarie Base Hospital physiotherapy manager Anthony Best said hydrotherapy was suitable for almost anyone as participants don’t need to be confident swimmers.

“Hydrotherapy doesn’t actually involve swimming, most of the exercises are done while standing in the water or supported by a floatation device such as a noodle,” Mr Best said.

“Hydrotherapy is beneficial for people with a variety of conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, cardiovascular and respiratory disease, muscle and joint pain or weakness, back pain and obesity.”

MNCLHD Aboriginal Health promotion officer Tristram Morris said launching the program on Close the Gap day was significant, as the program came about because of feedback from the Aboriginal community.

“Part of closing the gap is listening to our community when they tell us what their health needs are, and the best way to meet those needs,” Mr Morris said.

“The local Aboriginal community told us they wanted a hydrotherapy program specifically for Aboriginal people, so that is what we have created with Bathu Marrung.”

“The program came about through a partnership between Mid North Coast Local Health Physiotherapy, Aboriginal Health and Health Promotion teams, Werin Aboriginal Medical Service and members of the local Aboriginal community.”

The Bathu Marrung hydrotherapy program runs every Thursday from 11am until 12pm at the Port Macquarie Base Hospital. Participants are required to obtain a medical clearance from their doctor to participate in hydrotherapy.

For further information about the program, contact Aboriginal Health Promotion Officer Tristram Morris on 6588 2631.